A skid steer, commonly known as a skid steer loader, is a versatile piece of construction equipment that excels in both agility and compactness. Characteristics such as its ability to pivot on its own axis, and its small footprint, make it ideal for operations that require maneuverability within confined or restricted areas often found on a construction jobsite.
The width of a skid steer is an essential factor that contributes to its ability to navigate through narrow passages and determines the types of environments in which it can effectively work.
Sizes of skid steer loaders vary considerably to accommodate different tasks and working conditions.
Small frame skid steers are typically under 50 horsepower and can be as little as 3 feet wide, allowing them to operate in the tightest of spaces.
Medium frame machines, delivering between 50 to 70 horsepower, measure between 5 to 5.5 feet in width and strike a balance between compactness and power.
Large frame skid steers, boasting over 70 horsepower, extend to around 6 feet wide and are suitable for heavy-duty applications that require more muscle and lift capacity.
Frequently Asked Questions
When considering a skid steer loader's suitability for specific tasks, one must take into account their varying sizes and capabilities. Here are answers to common questions regarding the dimensions and characteristics of skid steer loaders.
What are the dimensions of a typical skid steer loader?
Typical skid steer loaders come in different sizes.
Small frame models under 50 horsepower measure approximately 3 feet in width, while medium-frame models, varying between 50 to 70 horsepower, are often 5 to 5.5 feet wide.
Large-frame skid steers, over 70 horsepower, are usually around 6 feet wide.
Can a skid steer loader fit through residential gates or doorways?
Small frame skid steer loaders, which are about 3 feet wide, can often pass through residential gates or doorways, considering that a standard gate width is usually 36 inches or more.
Always verify the specific gate or doorway measurements before attempting to pass through with a skid steer loader.
What is the average weight of a skid steer loader?
The weight of a skid steer loader can vary widely depending on the model and size.
Medium-frame skid steers commonly have an operating weight ranging from 5,000 to 6,000 pounds, which is a typical weight range for versatile machines suitable for a variety of tasks.
How do different brands compare in the width of their skid steer models?
Various brands have skid steer models that align with the industry-standard size categories—small, medium, and large frames.
For example, a Bobcat S70, a small-framed model, is 35.5 inches wide, while a medium-frame Bobcat T550 is 5.57 feet wide. Other brands will offer comparable models within these sizing guidelines.
How does the width of a skid steer with tracks differ from one with wheels?
Skid steers with tracks might have a slightly wider footprint than wheeled versions due to the tracks. However, the width is still generally within the specific size category of the machine—small, medium, or large frame—because the tracks are accounted for in the design of each size class.
What are the general size categories for skid steer loaders?
Skid steer loaders are typically divided into three size categories based on frame size and operational capabilities:
Small-frame skid steers are under 1,750 lbs Rated Operating Capacity (ROC) and under 50 horsepower. Meanwhile, medium-frame skid steers are 1,750 to 2,200 lbs ROC and 50 to 70 horsepower. Lastly, large-frame skid steers exceed these metrics with over 70 horsepower.