Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Skid Steer Attachments: How A Versatile Machine Works

By Amie Mckenzie


The skid steer is a versatile multi-purpose machine. They can be used in a lot of applications like farming, construction, removing snow, and handling materials. The reason why it is so versatile is that the machine's maker and third party manufacturers make different skid steer attachments or work tools that allow it to perform all sorts of jobs

The machine's diesel engine is directly connected to a hydraulic pump which powers a hydraulic motor. The skid steer is able to move forward and back using hydraulic motors instead of the familiar differential gear and axle setup found in most vehicles. All attachments are powered by the same hydraulic pump that drives the wheels. By using a system of hydraulic actuators, it is possible to make different types of work tools perform unique jobs.

Another attachment that is not really a work tool is the OTT or over the tire track. These are very similar to caterpillar tracks found in bulldozers and battle tanks. When you install OTTs on the machine they become real all-terrain workhorses that can easily traverse deep and slippery mud.

At the heart of the machine's versatility are standardized interfaces that make any third party make attachments that will work in any brand of skid steer as long as it follows the interface. These interfaces are commonly called quick couplers.

Another standard interface is the connection between the hydraulic hose of the work tool and the machine. There are two major types of hydraulic connectors. One is the Pioneer coupler and the other one is the flat faced coupler.

Let us talk about some specific attachments that are widely used. For materials handling it is possible to connect a forklift like work tool to the machine. This tool works best when materials are stacked on pallets.

The small size of the machine is useful for working in tight spots in construction sites. These machines can be attached with dirt buckets or angle blades. Dirt buckets are used to load loose dirt into trucks so that they can be moved out of the site. Angle blades are used to move or push away loose soil and gravel.

The secret of the skid steer's versatility is the standardization of quick release couplers for work tools and hydraulic hoses. When the interface became uniform a lot of third party makers of work tools began making devices for all types of applications imaginable. When you need a job done in your farm, garden, or in construction, who knows there might be skid steer attachments that does it for you.




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