There are three central questions about size you'll need to answer when evaluating mini skid steer loaders and comparing different providers.
The first is the physical size of the machine: carefully measure any gates, garages, or in other small spaces your mini skid steer loaders need to fit through. Typical mini skid loaders range in width from about 3' to over 6', while heights are usually between 5' and 7'.
A second point is how high you need the mini skid steer loader to lift: if you need it to fill a 9' high dump truck, make sure the model you choose has the appropriate dumping height, or "height to hinge pin." It can range from around 8' on smaller models to over 10' on the largest.
The third main consideration for mini skid steer loaders is lifting capacity, also known as operating capacity. As lifting capacity increases, the physical size will increase as well. If your primary consideration is access to tight places, you may have to settle for slightly less carrying capacity.
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Choosing tires for mini skid loaders
Besides the size questions, you'll also need to address the type of tires you want on your mini skid loaders. Tires for skid loaders can be pneumatic – hollow rubber tires filled with either air or polyurethane foam – or solid rubber. Here's a general breakdown of the different available tires for mini skid loaders:
Air-filled tires are the best at smoothing the ride on bumpy or uneven surfaces, but you run the risk of getting a flat. They're also the least expensive.
Foam-filled pneumatic tires are impervious to flats, but are more expensive: they can cost $400 to $500 each. In addition, since foam-filled tires are so much heavier than air-filled, they put additional strain on the transmission of the mini skid steer loaders which can lead to breakdowns.
Solid rubber tires are typically much thinner, so they don't have the weight problems, and also never go flat. However, they do give mini skid steer loaders the roughest ride.
Which mini skid steer loaders are best for you?
Mini skid steer loaders can provide a productivity boost for your business, but how do you decide which options you need? BuyerZone can help. Complete our simple request for skid steer loaders quotes form, and we'll connect you to multiple dealers who will review your options and make the appropriate selections. The service is quick and, most importantly, free!