Which Class Skid Steer?

Big Chris

I'm considering buying a skid steer but I don't know which class machine would be best for my needs. I want to get a trencher attachment to dig trenches for electrical conduits. I'm thinking about an auger as well for augering holes for light pole bases. Mostly 24" bases. Possibly a dozer blade for backfilling the trenches. What options would/should I look for and what lift capacity. Thanks for any input!

Chris

tgeb

The work you want to do can be completed with any size skid steer.

My personal preference is to lean toward a lighter machine, something capable of say 1,500 to 2,000 lbs rated working capacity.

The larger machines are obviously heavier as well, which makes them less versatile as to where it can be worked, more weight = more damage to lawns, sidewalks etc.

Look for a brand that you can get parts and service locally, nothing worse than having to drive a few hours to get parts.

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Tom

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gravtyklz

I've never seen anyone back full using a dozer blade instead of a normal bucket. Is a dozer blade faster?

I guess if you were good you could make a better grade, just the same ive seen people use dozer blades on other machines and just hack it up even worse because they werent so good.

Big Chris

I've actually never seen it done with skid either. It would seem to me that it would be quite an advantage to backfill running parallel to the trench. Expecially with material on both sides of the trench that needs to be backfilled as with a trencher. Similiar to the 6 way backfill blade on a Ditch Witch or Vermeer trencher.

denick

I would agree with tgeb, a mid size machine 1,500 lb rated can do all you ask and more. It would just be how much more you ask once you get it.

Always remember the CDL license requirements on a trailer of more than 10,000 lbs GVW. and possible DOT # etc!!!!!

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Nick

"Every day I remind myself that my inner and outer life are based on the labors of other men, living and dead, and that I must exert myself in order to give in the same measure as I have received and am still receiving" Albert Einstein

Big Chris

I've got John Deere, Cat and Case all within 20 miles of me so I'm leaning towards one of those three.

That is what I thought as far as capacity? You don't need high flow to run a trencher or auger do you??

Big Chris

I know...I've been sneeking around on backroads but it is only a matter of time before my luck runs out. Need my DOT #'s and class A cdl At least I have a GVW plate on my truck!

tgeb

NO.

I would demo the three if they will let you, see which one you like the best, but my initial thoughts would lean me towards the Deere, then possibly the Cat. I have never been fond of the Case Skid Steers.

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Tom

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Big Chris

250 Deere is the only skid i've ever operated.

dayexco

i like the ones with the white sidewall tires, and the fringe hanging in the cab, and the pom poms hanging on the left control lever personally

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someday, i'll be as patient as Nick.

Big Chris

That is the limited edition south of the border model...check that option in place of the block heater

gravtyklz

How long has that been in effect? A year ago when I worked for an excavating contractor and I drove all the time pulling a 304CR that I used. It weighs close to 11k lbs without the bucket I think.

gravtyklz

Thats a good point I wasnt thinking about smaller trenches. Seems like the only trenches ive ever back filled were for septic tanks or other sewer lines where theres a ton of dirt. I dont know if a skid steer could push that much dirt running parallel.

But i've never used a dozer blade on anything other than a mini....and that just doesnt count at all.

Trencher

I have a JD CT322 and I use it primarily for trenching. It is a high flow, but it is not neccessary if the ID of your hydraulic line is large enough.

Backfilling the trench is just a matter of getting perpendicular to the trench with a dirt bucket (provided you do not have an adjustable blade) and backfill back and forth down thelength of the trench for an efficient backfill (to not waste any dirt in the dirt bucket).

I have an implement being made which will allow me to run parallel with the trench.

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woodmagman

Chris, we have a Cat 303.5 miniX we do all our trenching, back filling, and can auger upt o 24". The nice thing about the X is that you can dig a hole if you do tranformer pads as well.

TMatt142

FYI, I have watched many concrete crews grading curb with a...4-way (I think) blade. Don't think the blade tilts up and down on each corner, but don't quote me on that. They seem to work very well and can push a lot of material, just not sure what kind of bank you have to break out to buy that luxury! I sure like the Cat track machines, good visibility and strong. I've only trenched with a Bobcat T-200 and it worked very well too.

Virginia Built

Take a look at my skid steer for sale in the classified section. We are also selling a lagre crawler loader.

joasis

I like my 763G Bobcat...and it runs a 24 inch auger with no problem. You would be in the 10 to 12k range for a low hour machine.

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NorthstarNC

New Holland has always given me great service. One of the highest lifting booms as well. Visibility is good. I'll probably not own another brand skidder me doo.

tgeb

I would agree, mx.

I have owned New Hollands and the others can't "hold a candle" as far as I am concerned. (I have run most of the others).

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Tom

www.gebcon.com