If you want to learn more, please visit our website track loader vs wheel loader.
Table of Contents:
1. Are Wheeled Skid Steers Better Than Tracked Skid Steers?
2. Wheeled Skid Steers - Features
3. Tracked Skid Steers - Features
4. Over the Tire Tracks - What Are They?
5. Track vs. Wheel Skid Steer - Summary
6. Where to Find the Best Equipment for Tracked and Wheeled Skid Steers?
One of the most recognizable features of skid steers is their versatility. It is not only reflected in the number of jobs they can perform but also in the types of machines. Operators can choose between wheeled skid steers and skid steers with tracks. However, too big of a choice may sometimes be a disadvantage. The process of deciding may be a daunting experience. Thankfully, we know the ins and outs of both types of skid steers and will happily share them with you in today's article.
The answer to the above question is yes and no. The reason for that is that the type of skid steer loader you should choose depends on several factors, such as the type of surface, task, maneuverability, speed, and many more. Let us go through the features of each type of skid steer loader to determine which one works best in specific applications.
Wheeled skid steers are older than the machines with tracks. Even though the operators have a lot of experience in operating them, it does not mean that they are a better choice. However, they have certain pluses few can dismiss.
Low Price
If there are no specific requirements for track loaders (e.g., wet uneven terrain), a wheeled machine will be a cheaper option. It is simply because the tires are cheaper than tracks. When it comes to the mileage, it is comparable to tracks, especially in a favorable operating environment.
Great on Hard Surfaces
If you work on asphalt or concrete, there is no better alternative than wheeled machines. Tracks easily deteriorate on asphalt and leave unaesthetic rubber marks behind.
Speed and Maneuverability
Broadly speaking, if you need quick action, great maneuverability, and enhanced tight space accessibility, a wheeled skid steer will satisfy those needs better than a track loader.
There are several cases or conditions where track loaders or compact track loaders perform a lot better than a wheeled machine. Therefore, if your situation fits any of the circumstances described below, a tracked machine will be a perfect choice.
Better Traction
As the name indicates, a track loader (or a compact track loader) provides better traction as in its case there is greater contact with the ground. It is therefore beneficial when such enhanced contact is required. This makes skid steer tracks perfect for eg., clearing snow.
More Floatation
When the surface you work on is muddy soil or soft ground, a tracked machine is less likely to sink in it than a wheeled skid steer. This is due to the more evenly spread weight of the machine over a larger surface. As a result, there are fewer pounds per inch of pressure on the surface below. Thanks to this distribution, the track loader can stand and work steadily in uneven terrain. There is also another advantage of even distribution of weight. The ground does not get as much damage as it might when using a machine with wheels. It is important, especially when the job sites are lawns or other aesthetically pleasing areas. It is also crucial to remember to choose rubber tracks instead of steel tracks.
Greater Stability
Thanks to a larger surface area of footprint provided by tracks, skid steer is more stable. It plays a key role when the machine or an attachment used is large and heavy, and the terrain is challenging. In such circumstances, improved stability plays a significant role.
What if you decide that a tracked machine is what you need, but you already have a wheeled skid steer? Do not worry, there is no need to buy a brand-new piece of equipment! You can always purchase over-the-tire tracks to add flotation and traction to your speedy, maneuverable wheeled machine.
Rubber over the tire tracks will work well in soft and wet conditions, whereas steel over the tire tracks will do wonders when it comes to stabilizing the machine in slippery conditions. To choose appropriate tracks, measure the clearance around the tires. It should be greater than 3 inches to accommodate most models of over-the-tire tracks.
As a takeaway, have a look at the below quick summary:
Whether you have a skid steer with tracks or wheels, Skidsteers.com carries a variety of parts for your equipment. Check out our tires and rims section for tires for countless applications (dirt, concrete, asphalt, turf, or snow tires). We also offer rubber tracks for compact track loaders, excavators, and skid steers.
Finally, if you need over-the-tire skid steer tracks, we have your back too. Choose our metal or rubber tracks and enjoy the enhanced features of your machine! If you have any questions, our knowledgeable team is at your disposal and always happy to help.
In the market for a wheel loader? As specialised construction vehicles, wheel loaders are designed especially for various tasks. So whether you need to scoop, carry, lift, or load, there’s a wheel loader for you. But being so specialised, you need to choose the right one. There are many different wheel loader models on the market and all with their different specs. So, what should you think about when you buy a wheel loader? What might you need? What matters? Let’s take a look at this:
Think about size
Before you think about anything else, it’s worth getting an idea of the size of your project. Getting to grips with the scope of your job gives you a head start in understanding what size wheel loader is best for you and what you need it to do. Indeed, the right size will help maximise your ROI. So, getting this right is imperative.
What size do I need?
So, how do you determine which size wheel loader you’ll need? Well, simply ask yourself these three questions:
How much material do I need to move daily?
For more triaxle dump truckinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.
Will the wheel loader need to keep up with another machine?
What weight of materials will the device need to place or lift? What size?
There are 3 main elements you’ll need to compare when considering the size of your wheel loader – its horsepower, tipping load, and bucket size.
Another thing to think about is how you’ll get your wheel loader to and from the site. For example, if you’re planning on moving it by road, its transport width and attachments need to be considered.
We have plenty of different-sized wheel loaders available. Contact us to find out more.
What about durability?
When it comes to construction, everything is sturdy. Even mobile phones and radios come in rugged models. So it’s easy to assume that your wheel loader will inherently be able to handle anything your site can throw at it, too. But durability is still something you should consider.
So, look at protective elements like light shields or guard screens. Will you use your wheel loader to prep a site with dense vegetation?
You should also check that more vulnerable components like hydraulic hoses are suitably protected, too. Increased durability can only increase reliability!
Consider counterweight
Sure, your wheel loader’s weight does give you a fair idea of its power. But have you thought about counterweight? Counterweight not only boosts traction and machine stability but also improves lift capacity.
Then there’s fuel efficiency as one of the most significant expenses any equipment owner has – especially right now – fuel efficiency is vital. So, you should ensure that your wheel loader is the correct size for the job. You should also minimise idle time and bad operator behaviours and look at site travel patterns.
Invest in the right attachments
Loader-specific attachments are a bit on the pricey end. However, they pay for themselves if your job needs versatility. There are forks, blades, rippers, grapples, hedge trimmers, and buckets, of course.
Being able to switch between a variety of attachments makes your machine more capable. So, for the long-term, a quick couplet or quick hitch makes attaching faster and more effective.
Know what you want from a bucket
The sheer amount of attachments available makes wheel loaders so versatile, for sure. But in terms of usefulness, bucket load is more important.
To find out what bucket you need, consider your daily production figure and the density of the materials you’ll be handling. For more versatile jobs, base your bucket specifications on the heaviest material your wheel loader will be taking.
Know arm configurations
For most wheel loaders, there are three main arm configuration types: the most common Z-bar, followed by the XR – extended reach, and the XT, the tool carrier. Each of these linkages has been configured for a specific purpose.
The XR is more popular in farming and agricultural applications, while XT arms are better for material handling. So, if you won’t be doing much material handling, you can see why a Z-bar may be your best bet, while an XT configuration is more suitable for lifting materials using forks often.
How easy is it to service?
The loader’s serviceability is another essential point to think about. Machines with easy access to their maintenance points, like the engine and hydraulic hose, can save you a lot of time. Of course, extended service intervals and high-quality components are also a good idea, but the less time it takes to service your wheel loader, the more time you can spend on-site working.
Comfort!
Okay, so comfort may not seem that important. But, considering its potential to boost productivity and for the health and safety of the user, you’ll soon see why comfort is imperative!
If possible, get into the operator seat of a prospective wheel loader to test the smoothness of the ride, the air conditioning and heating, the suspension seats and cab noise, and the joystick controls.
Here at EEA, we provide a range of wheel loader options for purchase, otherwise, feel free to contact us here.
Want more information on electric dump trucks? Feel free to contact us.