Monday, April 23, 2012

Comparing Tractors and Skid Steers

By Curtis Turow


The type of skid steer loaders Roswell farmers use is easily likened to a tractor installed with attachments. If you are in the market for a new piece of machinery, you might find it difficult to decide between the machines. Since they serve essentially the same purposes, how does one decide which to buy?

One of the most notable differences between skid steers and tractors is typically the price tag. The initial investment will usually be more if you go with a loader, regularly by several thousand dollars. This varies by brand and dealer, but the initial expense is generally more for the skid steer. And dependent on a bunch of factors, of course, the tractor is generally going to have the longer useful life, particularly with good maintenance and servicing.

There's also the cost of other equipment to think about. You can get skid steer loader attachments that serve a variety of purposes. But the probabilities are good you can find more tractor attachments that may cover a larger variety of tasks. Many folks use their tractors as front loaders, backhoes, tillers, mowers and as machines for tasks that might take several different pieces of equipment to do. That flexibility can help to save you cash.

Someone acquainted with a tractor might find the skid steer a little bit more difficult to get off and on. Visibility is changed with a loader, as well. Good visibility on a tractor when backing up is frequently needed for a variety of tasks. Some skid steers make it more difficult to see behind you when reversing, which might be a problem.

Damage is also something to think about before selecting either. Somebody familiar with a tractor's operation will have a learning process on a skid steer. But if it's sheer maneuverability you're looking for, then it may be difficult to beat a compact skid steer loader.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment