The Comprehensive Guide on How To Operate A Skid Steer
Skid steers and compact track loaders (CTLs) are two of the most versatile compact machines used by contractors. Contractors use both machines a lot for various tasks like moving earth, handling materials, building, landscaping, and farming. For this reason, it is common for young contractors and equipment operators to learn how to operate these machines first.
Safe operation of any piece of construction equipment is extremely important. These machines, weighing several tons, can pose safety hazards like roll-overs, crushing, or pinching if misused. We made a detailed blog and YouTube video to help you learn how to operate skid steers and compact track loaders. Consider it a beginner's guide to skid steer operation. Video clips are added for reference.
Getting to Know Your Skid Steer
While most skid steers and CTLs have similar control layouts, there may be small differences between each model. Reading the operator's manual is crucial before operating any skid steer or compact track loader. This includes any rental machines as well.
This will help you become familiar with the specifics of your machine. This includes things like controls, how to change the machine from ISO to SAE controls, and where the grease points are located.
However, the most important things to know about your skid steer are the specs of the machine. These specs determine the machine's lifting capacity, ability to use high-flow attachments, size, and engine power. This informs the operator how the machine will perform in specific situations and ensures they're not pushing the machine beyond its capabilities.
Pre-Operational Checks and Safety Measures
Before starting your machine, it is important to do a walkaround of the machine. During this walkaround, you should be checking the tires and wheels, fluid levels, and hydraulic hoses.
With a tracked skid steer you want to be checking the tension of the tracks. If the tracks are too loose, they may come off the machine when operating. Check for tears, abrasions, and damage to the sprockets on the compact track loader that could affect its operation. On a wheeled skid steer, check for cuts and abrasions on the tires and if the bolts are tightened.
For the fluids, you will be checking the coolant, engine oil, oil fill, air filter, fuel, and hoses. For the coolant, engine oil, and fuel, you will want to check that there is an adequate amount of liquid in each part. With the air filter and hoses, you want to ensure that they are secured tightly and that there are no leaks or abrasions in the hose.
When doing your circle check, you should also be testing the hydraulic connections and grease fittings. With the hydraulic hoses, it's important to test each connection to ensure there are no leaks and the fittings are tightly fastened to the machine. For the grease fittings, which you should be doing every day, there needs to be a little bit of grease protruding from the fitting. The owner's manual will inform you what type of grease works best.
Starting and Maneuvering the Skid Steer
Safety is a priority when operating a skid steer, including when you get into the machine. When getting in any piece of equipment, you should always use three points of contact to prevent slipping or getting hurt. There are many steps and handles on the skid steer to ensure you can get in safely and securely.
Once in, there is a seat belt and lat bar that must be lowered to start the machine. These features also help protect you in the case that the machine rolls over or tips. After the restraint bar is secured, press and hold the green start button to turn on the machine. The parking brake must be turned off before proceeding.
Basic Maneuvering Skills
When it comes to controls, it depends on if the machine is in ISO or SAE controls. For reference, the compact track loader in the video is in SAE controls. This means that the left-hand joystick controls the movement of the skid steer while the right-hand joystick controls the attachment. If the machine was using ISO controls, these functions would be swapped.
When operating a wheeled or tracked skid steer in SAE controls, the left joystick is used to move the machine forward and backward, as well as turn. Moving the joystick forward makes it go forward. Moving it backward makes it go backward. Turning the handle right or left makes it turn right or left.
In SAE controls, the right joystick is used to control the attachment. Pulling the joystick back will make the attachment rise and pushing it down will lower it. Pushing the joystick to the right will make the bucket lift and pulling it to the left will make the bucket curl down.
Experienced operators quickly learn joystick controls, but inexperienced ones need time to become familiar with operating the machine. Each machine has varying joystick sensitivity levels, so it's crucial to gradually adapt when using a new machine.
Advanced Skid Steer Operating Techniques
Getting comfortable on a specific machine takes time. Comfortability may depend on terrain, attachment type, and familiarity with the equipment size. Advanced operating techniques could include learning how to maneuver in damp or uneven terrain, and how to get unstuck. It could also mean learning how to adapt to the specific attachment you're using to get the job done.
Many experienced operators have advanced operating techniques because they've learned in the element. As such, any operator needs to gain some level of experience with a machine's size, attachment, and terrain to become an expert operator.
How To Disconnect and Connect Hydraulic Attachments
When working with hydraulic attachments, you will need to connect the hoses to the right place on the machine. The machine must be turned off when connecting hydraulics. If the machine is left on, the pressure from the machine may cause damage to the machine.
The standard attachment will have two connections; an inlet and an outlet. To plug them in, you simply match them up to where the plugs are located and push them. The connections are usually on the front right side of the machine. Below is a video example of connecting a bush hog to a compact track loader.
Best Practices for Efficient and Safe Skid Steer Operation
Being safe when operating heavy equipment is incredibly important. While the advice above will keep you safe, there are some additional tips and best practices to consider.
Many of these skid steer safety tips revolve around situational awareness. Mirrors in skid steers and compact track loaders exist, but it's nearly impossible to see everything around you and there are many blind spots. Be vigilant of coworkers and inform individuals in the work area before using equipment to ensure their awareness.
There are also different safety considerations for each attachment. For example, in our video, the skid steer is operating with a bush hog attachment. To keep the operator safe, it's important to keep an eye on the angle of the blade and attachment. If there is no door on the cab, this can put the operator at risk of being hit by debris.
Other skid steer operator best practices include:
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Reviewing the operator's manual before using the machine
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Getting an understanding of the terrain before operating
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Keeping the attachment as low to the ground as possible when not in use
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Keeping your body inside the cab when the machine is on
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Getting familiar with all the controls and layout of buttons before using
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Checking whether the skid steer is in ISO or SAE controls
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Reading the specs and understanding the limitations of the machine
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Being cautious with slopes, always driving straight up and at a slower speed
If you follow these practices, you will ensure the safe operation and use of a skid steer.
Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Skid Steer in Top Condition
Daily walkarounds and circle checks are some of the most proactive ways to keep up with the maintenance of your machine. Many of the smaller damages that occur with skid steers are because of poor daily maintenance. This includes the failure to check hoses for leaks, grease, replace fluids, and more.
Additionally, you should plan on having more detailed maintenance checks on at least an annual basis, even if there is nothing majorly wrong. These service checks are another proactive way to stay updated on the health of the machine.
Conclusion
As one of the most commonly used machines in the trades, knowing how to operate a skid steer is crucial for many operators. This guide provides an in-depth explanation of pre-operation checks, safety measures, controls, connecting attachments, and best practices.
If you're looking for a wheeled skid steer or compact track loader for your next project, you can search DOZR's marketplace. The DOZR team created this guide and other skid steer blogs to assist customers in confidently operating their equipment.
