COMPACT EQUIPMENT

When a job is too big to do by hand but too small to justify a full loader, it’s time to call on a compact loader. These machines are often the perfect solution. They’re small and mighty and get the job done fast. It’s no wonder the popularity of compact equipment continues to grow, and with it, equipment manufacturers continue to expand their offerings in the compact category, from skid steers and compact track loaders to compact wheel loaders. But finding the right one for your job shouldn’t be a hassle. A few simple specs can save you time and money in finding the perfect equipment.

Compact loader options

Consider a skid steer or track loader. As one of the industry leaders in compact construction equipment, Kubota’s lineup includes their SSV65 and 75 skid steers and SVL65, 75, and 97 track loaders ranging from 64 to 74 horsepower. These are powerful construction equipment that can withstand the most challenging terrain, featuring twin booms, and climate-controlled cabins, and known for long-term durability. Their state-of-the-art technology ensures that these pieces of equipment are built to last.

The compact wheel loader is a third alternative to the standard SSL and CTL. Compact wheel loaders ranging in bucket sizes from half a yard to 1.5 yards continue to gain popularity in the American marketplace. These models provide better visibility and are easier on turf, while the longer wheelbase offers better rideability. Kubota, Avant, and Hitachi all stand out here.

The Avant rear articulated telescopic loader with over 200 attachments provides seemingly endless possibilities. Particularly popular in tree and property maintenance applications, these loaders offer better fuel economy and versatility than other compact loader options. Hitachi compact loaders, such as the ZW50, offer faster ground speed. Kubota’s workhorses, the R430, R540, and R640, bring power and comfort.

Certain specs are very important for picking your loader. Consider the needs of your project.

• Load capacity: The hydraulics in an ultra-compact skid steer, for example, has about 20 horsepower, enough to lift about 600 pounds of material. A larger skid steer may have over 100 horsepower, sufficient for well over a ton of material. Pick a loader that can comfortably handle your most oversized load.

• Reach: Radial lift booms let the bucket arc forward a bit. Vertical lift booms don’t have an outward arc. Both have benefits, but operators may prefer one system over another.

• Dimensions: Operators often look to compact machines when they need to fit in small spaces. If you’re working with a gate, alley, overhang, or other confined entrance, measure it beforehand and find a skid steer that fits.

• Attachments: Compact loaders come with a wide range

BY MATTHEW SAMS

of attachments, including buckets, loading forks, blades, brooms, and more. Consider which ones you need for your job.

• Auxiliary hydraulics: Extra hydraulics are added at the end of the boom to power specific attachments. Standard hydraulics flow up to 25 GPM, making them perfect for grapplers and augers. Snowblowers and other attachments will require a high-flow system with up to 40gpm.

• Cab design: The cabin often goes under-represented, but it’s an essential feature for the comfort of your operator. Some cabins are open; others are enclosed with air conditioning, heating, and various doors. Depending on your climate, consider the cabin, too.

Renting or leasing

Identifying the compact loader you need isn’t enough. You must also determine what kind of contract works best for your project. There are four options: purchasing new, leasing new, renting to own, or short-term renting.

• Buying new is best for long-term projects with particular needs. You’re guaranteed factory-fresh equipment with a tip-top service record—possibly even some tax benefits. If you already plan to invest a lot of time into a project, owning gives you more control.

• Leasing new works well if you want to control maintenance, taxes, and insurance without as much of an upfront cost. The pros and cons depend heavily on the type of lease and the specifics of the contract.

• Short-term renting awards a lot of flexibility. If you only need the equipment for a short period or a single project, renting removes the long-term commitment.

• Renting to own balances the best of both worlds, letting you use the equipment while considering your long-term needs. If you like the equipment, you get to own it after a given period of time.

All these contracts depend heavily upon what company you sign with. Only sign a contract with a company that respects your uptime with quality parts and services.

Inspection

If you’re buying used, be sure to inspect the following areas carefully:

• Hydraulics: All the lifting depends on hydraulics. Ensure the bucket doesn’t sag and check if the cylinders and hoses leak.

• Engine: Run the engine and listen for any weird sounds. Look out for stuttering, rattling, and smoke.

• Frame: Always check for cracks, rust, or rewelded elements. These imperfections often go unnoticed, but they can significantly impact the quality of the equipment.

• Other: You’re likely fine if the hydraulics, frame, and engine work. But to be safe, kick the tires and inspect the inside of the cabin, too.

Summary

Bigger isn’t always better. Compact loaders are small, versatile machines, so look for the right specs and attachments to conquer your project comfortably. The market is full of so many quality brands that it’s often hard to choose. But remember: it’s not just

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about the equipment. Whether buying or leasing, you’re forming an ongoing partnership with the dealer. Make sure your partner puts your uptime first. Highway is proud to offer a wide range of solutions from Avant, Hitachi, and Kubota.

Matthew Sams is the general manager of Highway Equipment Company, one of the country’s leading sales, rental, parts, and service providers of highway, construction, oil and gas, mining, quarry, and industrial material-handling equipment.