More Uses Than a Toolbox Full of Tools

Skid steer loaders are more useful than ever around an acreage

A country friend arrived home a few years ago with a new skid steer loader (SSL). His wife read him the riot act, ending with “What are you going to use it for, anyway?”

Today, the SSL sees more use around their farm than the tractor—and the wife uses it for everything from gardening to driveway repair to yard maintenance. Yes, she operates it, because it’s easier and more fun than the tractor.

They’re often more maneuverable than small tractors, but are packed with plenty of hydraulic strength. And with attachments and accessories to buy or rent, there’s hardly anything a SSL can’t do around the acreage.

Here are some of 2021’s latest.

JOHN DEERE

314G

The newly enhanced 314G small-frame G-Series skid steer provides operators with power and efficiency on the job site. The 314G features increased productivity and time-saving options such as an optional rearview camera and easy-to-clean cab windows. The upgraded cab offers more comfort so operators can easily maneuver the machine and remain in the cab for longer durations on the job. The upgrades also include protected auxiliary hydraulic lines that run within the boom for additional protection and an optional capability to support two sets of counter weights. Operators can also utilize the JDLink™ telematics system, an application that allows operators to view critical information about machines in their fleet.

Deere & Company

844-809-1508

johndeere.com

CATERPILLAR

242D3

Caterpillar’s new D3 Series models bring Cat ruggedness, ease of use, and utility but now support a line of new Smart Attachments, where the machine recognizes certain attachments and tailors the controls and operator information to match the tool and the task. Sporting a wider cab door and improved operating stability while handling heavy loads, grading, or loading, an improved undercarriage reduces pitching and rocking. The 242D3 sports a rugged and efficient 74.3 horsepower engine in addition to features that automate machine functions to allow these tasks to be completed with less user interaction and expertise.

Caterpillar

888-614-4328

cat.com

NEW HOLLAND

300 Series

It’s no easy task to run a farm, manage multiple jobsites, or schedule around unpredictable weather— let alone ensure a strong profit margin. At New Holland, we’re committed to helping you meet your challenges by building best-in-class equipment. Our new line of 300 Series skid steer loaders makes good on this commitment. These 60 to 90 gross HP loaders deliver incomparable New Holland performance with 360-degree visibility, greater reach, and intuitive operator interface for enhanced productivity. With advanced technology like our trademark Super Boom vertical lift linkage, a new 8” multifunction LCD display with reverse camera, straight-line tracking improvements, it’s easy to see why the new 300 Series skid steers are built to support you and your operation.

CNH Industrial America LLC

888-365-6423

construction.newholland.com

TAKEUCHI

TL6R

Sometimes tracks make more sense than wheels. Powered by a Kubota 2.4 liter, 65.2 horsepower engine, the TL6 features a radial lift loader design with a maximum lift height of 9 feet 6.4 inches, and a rated operating capacity of 1,841 pounds. Additionally, the TL6 has a width of 5 feet, a height of 6 feet 5.8 inches and weighs 7,480 lbs with a canopy and 7,780 lbs when equipped with a cab. The compact dimensions of the TL6 enable it to access and work efficiently in areas with limited space. The TL6 is ideal for customers in the agricultural, general contracting, landscaping and rental industries. The TL6 features a newly designed cabin with an overhead 5.7” color multi-information display and backlit rocker switches that control a variety of machine functions. A cab with swing-out door, heat, and air conditioner are available for greater operator comfort.

Takeuchi US

706-693-3600

takeuchi-us.com

BOBCAT

R-Series

The new Bobcat R-Series loaders have been redesigned inside and outside to be the most powerful, durable loaders built by that company. The R-Series loaders. Choose R-Series for increased lifting capabilities, a redesigned Bobcat inline engine with direct-drive system and an optional Touch Display—all-around visibility, comfortable controls, numerous options and roomy environment. Features include a one-piece sealed and pressurized cab, optional clear-side enclosure, mesh-free windows, redesigned cooling system, new cast-steel Bob-Tach attachment mounting system, and redesigned lift arms. Bobcat R-Series loaders have the agility to give you the performance your acreage needs.