Best Skid Steer To Buy (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for a versatile piece of equipment for your construction, landscaping or farming needs, a skid steer can be an excellent choice. And with so many models available in the market, it can be challenging to determine which is the best skid steer to buy.
Before making a purchase, there are several factors to consider. The first factor readers should consider is their intended use. Do they need a skid steer for heavy lifting, excavation or site preparation? The second factor is horsepower. Higher horsepower generally means more power and productivity. The third factor is the size of the machine. A smaller machine is easier to maneuver in tight spaces, while a larger machine may offer more stability and lifting capacity. Finally, readers should consider their budget and any features they require, such as a cab, air conditioning, or different attachments.
Are you wondering which are the most reliable brands in the market? Would you like to know the latest technology in skid steer attachments? Do you need advice on how to maintain your skid steer properly? Whether you’re a seasoned operator or a newbie, this article will provide helpful information that can help you choose the best skid steer to buy. Keep reading to learn more about what features and specs you should look for in a skid steer and how to ensure you get the right machine for your needs.
10 Best Skid Steer To Buy
| # | Product Image | Product Name | Product Notes | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
 |
The product is ideal for attaching various skid steer and tractor implements quickly and efficiently.
|
|
|
|
2
|
 |
The product is ideal for land clearing, site preparation, and removing debris such as roots, brush, silage, and burn piles.
|
|
|
|
3
|
 |
Ideal for heavy-duty skid steer operations, such as site prep, landscaping, and rock removal.
|
|
|
|
4
|
 |
The product is ideal for protecting skid steer loaders from different weather conditions in all states.
|
|
|
|
5
|
 |
The product is ideal for converting standard skid steers into a quick-tach system for easier attachment changes.
|
|
|
|
6
|
 |
This product is ideal for gripping and moving large tree roots, rocks, and debris using a mini skid steer.
|
|
|
|
7
|
 |
The product is ideal for easily and securely attaching equipment to Kubota and Bobcat Skid Steers and tractors.
|
|
|
|
8
|
 |
It is ideal for quickly attaching and detaching loaders to skid steer machines such as Bobcat and Kubota.
|
|
|
|
9
|
 |
Ideal for heavy-duty brush and debris removal, landscaping, and land clearing with skid steer machines.
|
|
|
|
10
|
 |
The product is ideal for skid steers to efficiently and effectively remove posts, trees, and other objects.
|
|
1. Quick Mount Plate For Bobcat And Kubota.
This mount plate attachment is designed explicitly for Bobcat and Kubota tractors and loaders. It can easily be welded or bolted onto plows, forks, or other tractor accessories made for Kubota and Bobcat. With its quick tach mount system, adding this mount plate to your farming equipment will be a breeze.
This adapter plate is compatible with a universal skid steer, allowing you to expand the possibilities of your tractor by transforming it into a well-rounded machine. It fits skid steers with the universal quick tach mounting system and tractors with the skid steer style quick tach. This feature makes hooking up pallet forks, plows, grapples, and other implements much more accessible and convenient.
Yard work can be tedious when done by hand. Plowing snow, removing debris, or transporting scraps can be time-consuming and exhausting. But with this mount plate, you can make your tractor do the work for you, making your tasks much simpler and more efficient.
The mount plate is made from grade 50 structural steel, making it durable and strong enough to handle heavy load work. You can pack on excessive weight without worrying about the plates bowing or bending. These structural steel plates have greater resistance to corrosion than standard steel, giving you years of use.
This mount plate has an outside width of 46-inches and an inside width of 45-inches. It stands at a height of 18.5-inches. The top bar and plate is 3/8-inch-thick, while the plate itself is 1/4-inch thick. It weighs a total of 72-pounds.
2. Titan Root Rake: Ultimate Land Clearing Attachment.
The Universal Skid Steer Connection Root Debris Rake is a versatile attachment that is compatible with almost all skid steers, loaders, and tractors, including Bobcat Skid Steer, New Holland, and Kubota tractors. The connection is known as SSQA or Universal Skid Steer Style Quick Connect, and the installation process is made easier with the inclusion of easy-to-grease pins and bushings.
This debris rake is ideal for various applications, including landscaping and clearing. Whether you need to remove debris from your garden, yard, farm, ranch, or construction site, this tool is perfect for the job. It can effectively roll debris and brush into tight piles for easy burning.
The landscaping attachment features a multi-tined steel leading edge with thick 0.5" tines spaced 6" on the center for piling brush, logs, rocks, and other debris. The tines are designed to be durable and long-lasting, making the tool an excellent investment for heavy-duty applications.
Crafted from heavy-duty metal, this Root Debris Rake is finished with a black powder coat that protects the implement from damage caused by weather conditions. Even if you cannot cover your tractor and its components when not in use, you can rest assured that this tool will remain in optimal condition.
The Root Debris Rake has dimensions of 72" wide, 35.625" tall, and a depth of 10", with sides featuring a thickness of 0.5". Each tine is spaced 6" apart and comes with a bolt-on kickstand for vertical storage when not in use. The tool weighs 409 LB, making it easy to handle and maneuver.
3. Titan's Bolt-On Teeth Skid Steer Rock Bucket.
Introducing the Skid Steer Skeleton Rock Bucket, a versatile and durable attachment that is designed to make your landscaping tasks easier and more efficient. This rock and debris bucket is designed to fit almost all skid steers, loaders, and tractors, including popular models like the Ford 8n, 9n, Kubota, BX, or Kioti tractors. Thanks to its SSQA or Universal Skid Steer Style Quick Connect, you can easily attach and detach the bucket from your machine without any hassle.
The Skid Steer Skeleton Rock Bucket features a sturdy skeleton frame that is constructed using 0.5-inch grade 50 structural steel. The sidewall thickness of this attachment is 0.75-inches-thick, which ensures that it can withstand heavy-duty tasks and provide plenty of support. Additionally, the bucket is equipped with a 3 x 3-inch 9-gauge tubular steel support at the top, which adds to the structural integrity of the attachment.
One of the key advantages of this rock and debris bucket is its replaceable teeth. If a tooth wears out, you don't need to replace the entire system. Instead, you can order a tooth individually or in a 3 or 5-pack, which saves you time and money in the long run.
The Skid Steer Skeleton Rock Bucket is perfect for landscaping tasks, as it is designed to easily scoop and sift material and debris from dirt, mulch, rocks, debris, snow, and more. Whether you're working on a construction site or maintaining your garden, this attachment is an invaluable addition to your tractor or skid steer.
This Skeleton Bucket weighs 670-pounds and provides overall dimensions of 74.5-inches wide by 49.5-inches deep and stands 20-inches high. The deep-well buckets inside dimensions are 72.5-inches wide by 38.5-inches deep and stands 14-inches high. The tines are spaced 4-inches apart with a thickness of 0.5-inches and the cutting edge is 0.75-inch thick. These dimensions make the bucket a suitable size for a range of tasks, and its durable construction ensures that it can withstand heavy use over time.
4. John Deere Skid Steer Cab Enclosure – All Weather
Looking for a durable and reliable skid steer cab that's compatible with your John Deere loader? Look no further than this Skid Steer Cab from a trusted manufacturer. Designed specifically for use with CT322, CT332, 240, 250, 260, 270, 317, 320, 325, 328, and 332 models, this cab is the perfect addition to your heavy equipment arsenal.
One of the standout features of this Skid Steer Enclosure Kit is its full 360-degree visibility, thanks to windows on all four sides. This allows the operator to keep an eye on their surroundings at all times, ensuring maximum safety and efficiency on the job. Additionally, the top view window provides an even greater vantage point, allowing the operator to see above the loader and get a better view of their work area.
The All Weather Safety Door is another key feature of this skid steer cab. The door comes equipped with a full-size heavy-duty vinyl window, as well as a flap at the bottom for added protection against cold weather. The door is "locked" in place by the operator using a shock cord and S-hook, and can be installed or removed in seconds thanks to the two steel hinge pins that drop into hinge brackets provided by the manufacturer.
Please note that this Skid Steer Enclosure Kit will not fit A, D, E, or G Series models. However, if you have one of the compatible models listed above, this cab is an excellent choice for anyone in need of a reliable and durable enclosure for their skid steer loader.
5. Titan Attachments Universal Skid Steer Quick Tach Conversion Adapter Welding
Introducing the Universal Skid Steer Mount Conversion Plate by Titan Attachments, the ultimate addition to your tractor that will make farming and gardening projects easier and more efficient. This Bobtach plate allows you to add various tractor implements to your hauler with ease, such as grapple rakes, pallet forks, backhoes, and more, making your tractor an invaluable piece of equipment. The possibilities are endless.
With this conversion plate, you no longer need to use individual tools and put strain on yourself. Instead, you can convert your tractor into your tool of choice, making tough projects much easier to handle. The quick tach plate is compatible with popular brands such as John Deere, Kubota, New Holland, Ford, and more, ensuring that it can be used with many different tractors.
The attachment plate is designed for easy DIY installation, with a large flat surface that allows for easy welding. Simply cut the tabs off your bucket and weld them to the quick tach plate to install it onto your tractor. This plate also features a sturdy, boxedin frame that keeps your attachments close to your machine, increasing lift capacity.
Built from heavy-duty material, this quick tach conversion plate is made to last. It can withstand intemperate weather and tough environments, ensuring that it will bring you years of dynamic use. The plate has an overall width of 49.75", with the back plates measuring at 12" W x 22" H. The whole attachment weighs approximately 149 lbs. and has a weight capacity of 3,500 lbs., making it the perfect size to add to your tractor's bucket.
6. Titan Attachments Mini Skid Steer Root Grapple 42" 318 Lb. Quick Tach
The 42-inch Mini Skid Steer Root Grapple is a top-quality attachment designed to efficiently pick up all types of debris, including rocks, brush, and logs. It is specifically designed to fit mini skid steer loaders, such as Toro Dingo, Ditch Witch, Multi One, Ram Rod, Vermeer, Finn Eagle, Boxer, Thomas, and others with Toro style mounting. Please note that it will not fit Bobcat, Kanga Kid, or Prodigy.
This exceptional attachment features a cylinder rod cover that protects hoses and cylinders from accidental damage that may occur during everyday use. With a grapple jaw opening of 24", this attachment can accommodate a wide range of job applications, which makes it perfect for those cleaning up sites with trees, roots, rocks, and brush.
The root grapple is constructed with a grapple width of 32.5", which ensures that it can handle even the most challenging tasks. Furthermore, its robust design guarantees that it can withstand heavy-duty use, making it a dependable attachment for all your debris removal needs.
7. Universal Mount Plate For Skid Steers & Tractors
If you are looking for an attachment made for Bobcat and Kubota tractors and loaders, then look no further than this handy attachment. You can easily weld or bolt it onto plows, forks, or other tractor accessories made for Kubota and Bobcat. This quick tach mount system is a must-have for all your farming equipment needs.
The adapter plate included in this attachment is designed to fit skid steers with the universal quick tach mounting system and tractors with the skid steer style quick tach. This universal skid steer adapter plate lets you expand the horizons of your tractor, turning it into a well-rounded machine. You can hook up pallet forks, plows, grapples, and other implements with ease.
This mount plate is designed to simplify all your tasks conveniently. We understand that you want things done fast when you have yard work that needs to be done. Plowing snow, removing debris, or transporting scraps can be tedious when done by hand. The mount plate is made to help you add virtually any attachment so that you can finish up your work quickly.
The tractor plate is made of grade 50 structural steel, making it durable and strong enough to handle heavy load work. You can pack on excessive weight without worrying about the plates bowing or bending. These structural steel plates have greater resistance to corrosion than standard steel, giving you years of use.
With this mounting plate, you can enjoy an outside width of 46-inches and an inside width of 45-inches. It stands 18.5-inches high, and the top bar and plate are 3/8-inch-thick, while the plate itself is 3/8-inch thick. It weighs 95-pounds, making it easy to move around and install.
8. 1/2" Skid Steer Quick Tach Mount Plate – Warranty Included
Introducing the brand new 1/2" thick mount plate – a versatile and heavy-duty solution for your yard work needs! This mount plate is specially designed to weld or bolt onto plows, forks, or any attachment that you want to convert to quick tach hookup, making it an excellent choice for those who want to add custom attachments to their heavy-duty equipment.
Made from Grade 50 structural steel, this mount plate is incredibly sturdy and can handle heavy workloads. With a weight of 125 lb, outside width of 46", inside width of 45", height of 18.5", top bar thickness of 3/8", and thick plate thickness of 1/2", you can rest assured that this plate won't bend under pressure.
Thanks to its skid steer style construction, the mount plate is incredibly easy to connect pallet forks, plows, grapples, and other parts. This makes it perfect for tasks like transporting waste, clearing debris, or plowing snow in your yard. With the mount plate, you can quickly complete these tedious tasks and get back to enjoying your day!
Installation is a breeze with the mount plate – you won't need professional assistance to get it up and running. This means you can enjoy peace-of-mind knowing you won't have to waste time on complicated installations. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, you'll find this mount plate easy to install and use.
9. Titan Landscaping Grapple – 72in Skid Steer Attachment
Looking for a versatile and reliable landscaping grapple rake? Look no further than this Universal Skid Steer Hookup attachment, compatible with most loaders and tractors including Kubota, Caterpillar, New Holland, and even Bobcat hauler models. The neutral black color scheme of this attachment will perfectly complement your machinery.
With an extra-wide opening, this grapple rake is ideal for picking up and moving brush, debris, and other odd-shaped material with ease. The twin 3000 PSI cylinder provides powerful lifting capability to clear your yard or back acre, ensuring your tractor operates smoothly.
This 72" wide grapple weighs 825 LB and provides an opening height of 48". The overall side thickness of this attachment is 0.5", while the teeth of the grapple rake measure 24" in length and are 0.5" thick.
For your convenience, this grapple rake comes with easy-to-grease pins, bushings, hoses, and couplers, making maintenance and upkeep a breeze. Whether you're a professional landscaper or a homeowner looking to tidy up your yard, this grapple rake is a must-have tool. So why wait? Get yours today and experience the ease and efficiency of this powerful attachment.
10. Titan Attachments Heavy Duty Post And Tree Puller For Skid Steers Universal
The Titan Skid Steer Tree, Fence, And Post Puller Attachment is a versatile and reliable tool that can help with any landscaping challenge. This attachment is designed to have a universal fit for most skid steer and tractor models, including Bobcat and Kubota, thanks to its universal skid steer quick tach feature.
Equipped with 2 x 10-inch hydraulic cylinders, this attachment delivers 3,000-pounds of clamping force to pull stubborn tree roots or fence posts directly from the ground. The jaws have a single hinge pin for a strong attachment and increased durability.
For consistent pressure levels during operation, this attachment tool includes flat-faced couplers and hoses. These features help preserve the longevity of the attachment and protect your landscape kit and accessories investment. They also allow you to accomplish more work over a more extended period.
The powerful reinforced steel jaws have rugged 1-inch-thick metal teeth that can eliminate 12-inch-wide trees directly from the environment without leaving any pieces behind. This attachment is perfect for removing tough roots and wood fencing posts from the ground.
To ensure that this attachment lasts for years to come, it has been finished with a powder coating that makes it more resistant to corrosion and rust over time. This durable construction is essential since this attachment is used in rough or damp environments for landscaping or farm work.
Best Skid Steer To Buy FAQs
Are compact or full-size skid steers better for my needs?
The decision between a compact or full-size skid steer ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. Compact skid steers are generally smaller and more maneuverable, making them ideal for jobs in tight spaces and on softer terrain. They are also typically less expensive and easier to transport. On the other hand, full-size skid steers are larger and more powerful, making them better suited for heavy-duty tasks like demolition and construction. They also typically have higher lifting capacities and longer reach, making them more versatile for a wider range of applications. Ultimately, you should consider the size of your worksite, the types of tasks you will be performing, and your budget when making your decision. Consulting with a skid steer expert or dealer can also help you determine which option is best for your specific needs.
Can a skid steer be used for both commercial and residential purposes?
Yes, a skid steer can be used for both commercial and residential purposes. Skid steers are versatile machines that can handle a variety of tasks and are commonly used in construction, landscaping, agriculture, and other industries. In commercial settings, skid steers can be used for excavating, grading, and demolition, while in residential settings, they can be used for digging foundations, landscaping, and snow removal.
One of the benefits of using a skid steer is its compact size, allowing it to maneuver in tight spaces and work in areas where larger equipment may not be able to access. Additionally, skid steers are highly customizable with a variety of attachments available, including buckets, forks, grapples, and more, making them suitable for a range of tasks.
Overall, whether you're a contractor working on a commercial construction project or a homeowner looking to tackle some landscaping, a skid steer can be a valuable tool in getting the job done efficiently and effectively.
How much horsepower should a skid steer have?
The horsepower required for a skid steer depends on the intended use of the machine. For light-duty tasks such as landscaping, a skid steer with 40-60 horsepower can suffice. However, for heavy-duty tasks such as excavation or construction, a skid steer with 70-100+ horsepower is recommended. It’s worth noting that higher horsepower skid steers can handle larger loads and work more efficiently, but they also come at a higher cost. It's also important to consider the size and weight of the skid steer, as a heavier machine may require more horsepower to operate effectively. Ultimately, the horsepower requirement for a skid steer should be determined based on the specific needs of the job and the type of attachments that will be used.
What are the maintenance requirements for a skid steer?
Skid steer loaders are versatile pieces of equipment that are used in various industries such as construction, agriculture, landscaping, and more. Regular maintenance of skid steer is essential to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of the machine.
Firstly, it is crucial to check the engine oil level, hydraulic fluid level, and fuel level before operating the skid steer. The engine oil and hydraulic fluid should be changed according to the manufacturer's recommended schedule, typically every 250 hours of operation. It is also important to inspect the air filter and replace it when necessary to prevent engine damage.
Secondly, the skid steer's tires should be checked regularly for proper inflation, wear, and damage. Skid steer tires are prone to punctures and cuts, so it is essential to inspect them before each use.
Thirdly, the machine's electrical system, including the battery, should be checked to ensure that all the connections are clean and tight. It is recommended to clean the battery terminals regularly to prevent corrosion.
Lastly, the skid steer's attachments should be inspected for wear and damage, and it is essential to lubricate all moving parts regularly.
In summary, regular maintenance of a skid steer includes checking fluids, inspecting tires, inspecting the electrical system, and lubricating all moving parts. It is important to follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule to keep the skid steer operating at peak performance.
What are the top-rated skid steers in the market?
Skid steers are versatile machines that are widely used in construction, agriculture, and landscaping industries. There are various brands and models of skid steers available in the market, each with different features and capabilities. Here are some of the top-rated skid steers in the market:
1. Bobcat S650 – This skid steer is known for its high lifting capacity, powerful performance, and advanced features such as joystick controls and automatic ride control.
2. Caterpillar 272D – The Caterpillar 272D is a durable and reliable skid steer that offers excellent stability and traction, making it ideal for heavy-duty applications.
3. John Deere 332G – This skid steer is known for its smooth operation, excellent visibility, and spacious cab, providing comfort and convenience to its operators.
4. Kubota SSV75 – The Kubota SSV75 is a compact and agile skid steer that offers outstanding maneuverability and power, making it ideal for tight spaces and challenging terrains.
5. Case SV280 – The Case SV280 is a versatile and efficient skid steer that offers high performance, fuel efficiency, and operator comfort, making it an excellent choice for various applications.
Overall, the top-rated skid steers in the market offer exceptional performance, durability, and versatility, making them valuable investments for businesses in different industries.
What factors should I consider when purchasing a skid steer?
When purchasing a skid steer, there are several factors that you should consider to ensure that you make the right decision. First, you should consider the type of work you will be using the skid steer for. This will help you determine the size and capacity of the skid steer you need. Second, you should consider the terrain you will be working on. If you will be working on rough terrain, you may need a skid steer with larger wheels or tracks. Third, you should consider the attachments that you will need for your work. Different skid steer models have different attachment options, so it is important to choose a model that can accommodate the attachments you need. Fourth, you should consider the brand and dealer reputation. Look for a reputable brand with a reliable dealer network that offers good customer support. Finally, you should consider the price and financing options available. Make sure you can afford the skid steer and explore financing options if necessary.
What is the average cost of a skid steer?
The average cost of a skid steer can vary depending on the brand, model, and features included. Generally, the price range for a new skid steer can range from $20,000 to $60,000. However, some high-end models can cost up to $100,000. Used skid steers are also available at a lower cost, with prices ranging from $5,000 to $30,000, depending on the age, condition, and usage of the equipment. It is important to consider the intended use of the skid steer and the necessary features before making a purchase. Additionally, financing options and leasing agreements may be available to help with the cost. Overall, the cost of a skid steer will depend on various factors, and it is recommended to do proper research and compare prices before making a decision.
What type of attachments can be used with a skid steer?
Skid steer loaders are versatile machines that can be used for a wide range of applications. They are equipped with a universal quick attach system that allows various types of attachments to be connected and disconnected quickly and easily. Some of the most common attachments for skid steer loaders include buckets, forks, grapples, augers, trenchers, and sweepers.
Buckets are the most commonly used attachment and come in various sizes and shapes to suit different applications such as digging, grading, and carrying materials like dirt, gravel, and snow. Forks are used for lifting and carrying heavy pallets, logs, and other materials. Grapples are used for handling bulky materials like logs, rocks, and debris. Augers and trenchers are used for digging holes and trenches for various purposes such as installing fence posts, planting trees, and laying pipes. Sweepers are used for cleaning surfaces like parking lots, sidewalks, and warehouses.
The type of attachment used with a skid steer depends on the job requirements. Skid steer loaders are popular in construction, landscaping, agriculture, and other industries because of their versatility and ability to use various attachments.
Which skid steer brand is the most reliable?
When it comes to skid steer loaders, there are several brands available that are reliable and known for their quality construction, performance, and durability. However, it's difficult to say which brand is the most reliable as each manufacturer has its unique features and strengths. Some of the top skid steer brands that have consistently ranked high in reliability and customer satisfaction include Bobcat, Caterpillar, John Deere, and Kubota. These brands are well-known for their superior engineering, powerful engines, comfortable operator cabs, and versatility in a wide range of applications. Ultimately, the reliability of a skid steer depends on several factors like maintenance, usage, and operator skill. It's essential to choose a reputable brand and model that meets your specific needs and budget and to maintain it regularly to ensure it performs optimally for years to come.
Which skid steer has the best fuel efficiency?
When it comes to skid steer fuel efficiency, there are several factors to consider such as engine size, load capacity, and operating conditions. However, some skid steer models are designed to provide better fuel efficiency than others.
One of the skid steer models with the best fuel efficiency is the Bobcat S450. This skid steer is equipped with a 49 hp engine and has a rated operating capacity of 1,300 pounds. It is designed with a variable speed cooling fan that adjusts its speed according to the temperature of the engine, reducing fuel consumption. Additionally, the Bobcat S450 has a fuel tank capacity of 24.8 gallons, providing it with longer run times.
Another skid steer with impressive fuel efficiency is the Caterpillar 262D. This model comes with a 67.1 hp engine and has a rated operating capacity of 2,700 pounds. It is designed with a load sensing hydraulic system that helps to reduce fuel consumption by optimizing the use of power. Additionally, the Caterpillar 262D has a fuel tank capacity of 27.7 gallons, providing it with extended run times.
In conclusion, both the Bobcat S450 and Caterpillar 262D are excellent choices for those looking for skid steer models with the best fuel efficiency. However, it's important to note that fuel efficiency can also vary depending on the application and maintenance of the equipment.
