December 2015 | EquipmentWorld.com
20
machine matters
|
by Richard Ries
DETAILS
DIFFERENTIATE
SKID STEER
LOADERS
Skid steers have so much standard
and optional equipment in common
it may seem all machines are cre-
ated equal, or nearly so. But look
closely at the details and you'll un-
cover real differences that will affect
how well a machine fits your needs.
T
he market has settled on a number of features shared
among nearly all machines. Tier 4 Final compliance is
one example. While flexibility in the EPA's program
allows some manufacturers to bring some models into
compliance at a later time, for the most part skid steer
loaders had to meet Tier 4 Final standards as of January 1, 2015.
Another example is the configuration of optional cabs; they're
bigger, quieter, and cleaner. Controls are our third example: foot
pedals, levers, and joysticks are offered. Joystick control patterns
can be changed by flipping a switch or via an in-cab touch-
screen monitor. With so much standardization, what besides
paint color and decals separate one manufacturer's machines
from those of another? And do those differences matter?
The similarities
