Skid steers and track loaders are both versatile pieces of equipment, found on job sites from landscaping to major earthmoving. This article will help you decide whether a skid steer loader or a track loader (also known as a posi-track) is best for your needs. Understanding the differences between these two will give you optimal performance and cost savings.
What are Skid Steers and Track Loaders
What is a Skid Steer Loader?
A skid steer loader, also known as a bobcat, is a compact and highly maneuverable machine with wheels. Wheeled skid steers are ideal for jobs in tight spaces and on flat ground. Their main advantage is speed and agility, making them perfect for jobs that require frequent direction changes. Skid steer loaders are popular because they’re tough and versatile machines with a wide range of attachments available for hire.
What is a Track Loader?
A track loader, also known as a posi-track loader, has tracks instead of wheels, spreading the machine’s weight over a larger surface area. These compact loaders have better traction and stability on uneven ground. The extra grip makes them ideal for earthmoving, construction and landscaping on rough surfaces. Posis have more ground clearance than skid steer loaders so can navigate rough terrain easier.
Skid Steer vs Track Loader Differences
The main difference between skid steer loaders and posi track loaders is the way they move: wheels vs tracks. This makes a big difference on different terrains. Wheeled skid steers can offer better performance on asphalt and hard surfaces, faster and more maneuverable. But on loose ground, the posi-track loader has better traction and stability, less ground disturbance. Understanding these differences is key when deciding between skid steers and posi tracks for your project or plant hire needs, as the wrong choice can lead to wear and tear and reduced efficiency. Having these machines available for wet hire makes project management easier. Wheeled skid steers have many advantages. Their speed and agility on hard surfaces make them perfect for quick turns. But wheeled skid steers struggle on uneven ground. Their limitations are reduced traction and higher chance of getting stuck in mud or sand. The wheels of skid steer loaders also cause more ground disturbance than the posi track on uneven terrain.
Posi-Track Loaders: Benefits and Drawbacks
Compact tracked loaders excel at providing better traction and stability on loose ground. Their tracks offer even weight distribution, reducing ground pressure and the chance of getting bogged down. This makes them perfect for landscaping and earthmoving jobs. While they perform well in tough conditions, posi-tracks generally have lower speed and manoeuvrability on hard surfaces than wheeled skid steers and their tracks wear out faster, increasing maintenance costs.
Skid Steer vs Posi-Track: Which to Choose
Choosing between wheeled skid steers and posi-tracks depends on the site conditions. For mostly hard, flat surfaces, a wheeled skid steer is better for speed and manoeuvrability. For muddy or sandy terrain a posi-track is better. Consider the needs of your project, the surfaces you’ll be working on and the long term costs, including wear and tear, before deciding. Equipment hire options also allow you to try out different types of loaders.
On the Job Site
Terrain Considerations for Skid Steers and Track Loaders
Terrain is one of the key factors to consider when choosing a mini loader. Wheeled skid steer loaders are best for smooth, paved surfaces where their speed and agility can be used. Posi track loaders are better on muddy conditions and loose soil providing better traction and less chance of getting stuck. Assess the terrain of your work site for optimal performance and safety, particularly if it involves rough terrain.
Load Capacity and Stability
Both types of loaders have different load capacities. Posi loaders are more stable with heavy loads especially on loose ground. Wheeled skid steers become unstable with larger loads on soft or sloping ground. This stability advantage makes posi-tracks safer and more efficient for a range of earthmoving tasks. Choose the right loader for your project.
Manoeuvrability in Tight Spaces
Skid steer loaders, especially wheeled models, are known for their manoeuvrability in tight access spaces. The skid steer mechanism allows them to turn within their own footprint, making them perfect for confined spaces. Similar to skid steers, track loaders can also operate in tight spaces but their turning circle is generally larger than wheeled skid steers. If your project involves navigating very narrow paths or working in congested areas, a wheeled skid steer may be the better choice.
Cost Comparison: Skid Steers vs Track Loaders
Purchase Price
When choosing a loader on the market, the purchase price is a big factor. Generally, skid steer loaders are cheaper to buy than track loaders. The more complex track system contributes to a higher manufacturing cost which is reflected in the price. But long-term value must also be considered along with the initial investment.
Maintenance and Operating Costs
Maintenance and operating costs differ greatly between wheeled skid steers vs posi-track loader options. Wheeled skid steers have lower maintenance costs but track loaders have higher maintenance costs because their tracks will wear out faster. Fuel consumption also varies based on the machine’s weight and the terrain, affecting overall operating costs. Regular inspection and maintenance is crucial for both types of loaders to prevent costly repairs.
Resale Value
Resale value is also an important part of the decision. Posi-track loaders retain their value better than wheeled skid steers. Wheeled skid steers have a broader market appeal because of their versatility on different surfaces. Keeping detailed maintenance records will greatly enhance the resale value of either type of skid steer loader.
Conclusion: Which One is Right for You?
Assess Your Job Site
It all comes down to evaluating your specific needs and site conditions. What’s the terrain: mostly smooth asphalt or wet ground, mud or sand? What will the loader be used for – earthmoving, landscaping or material handling in tight spaces? Answer these questions and you’ll be guided to the right one. Attachments available for hire will further expand the functionality.
Conclusion: Track Loaders vs Skid Steers
There’s no one answer to the debate that fits everyone. Skid steer loaders are fast and manoeuvrable on smooth surfaces, posi tracks are better on rough surfaces. Both types of loaders have their place in construction equipment, each with their advantages depending on the application. Weigh the pros and cons of each, including how they perform on rough terrain, before you decide.
Make an Informed Decision
Making an informed decision goes beyond comparing specs on paper. If possible, get a demo of a wheeled skid steer and a posi-track loader on your site. This will allow you to see them in action and determine which one suits your needs. Also, talk to experienced operators or plant hire professionals. Research thoroughly and you’ll be sure to get the right equipment, whether you choose to hire or buy track loaders and skid steer steers.