Today's skid-steer and compact track loader operators may be able to take a page from excavator operator manuals when it comes to driving, steering and operating their loaders. That's because the joystick controls found in most excavators are migrating to many of these machines.

Joystick controls are also referred to as pilot controls, pilot joysticks and even hydraulic assist. But whatever the terminology used, the end result is the same - increased comfort and reduced fatigue. "They have greatly limited the amount of physical energy an operator is required to expend," says Tom Green, marketing director, New Holland Construction.

An added bonus is often increased productivity. "The onset of the joystick control has made it easier, simpler, less fatiguing and just more ergonomically pleasing to an operator," says Kelly Moore, Mustang Mfg. Reduced wrist and arm force and minimal hand and wrist movement enable operators to use a loader for longer periods. "They're not tired and worn out at the end of the day from pushing manual levers. There's a benefit in the ease of operation and minimizing of fatigue when compared to older styles. It gives operators fingertip control with very low effort."

"Whether it's precision grading or other functions, hydraulic pilot controls give operators smooth control," Green agrees. "Our low-effort joysticks provide instant control response with minimum movement, resulting in precise control, superior comfort and less fatigue. Operators experience a good hand-to-power control ratio that is easy to anticipate and has a 'good feel'. This translates to controls that are easily mastered, and inspires operator's confidence in performance."

Control at your fingertips
A typical skid-steer joystick is hydraulically controlled, and features drive/steering functions in the left handle, while the right handle controls loader arm functions, such as raising and lowering a bucket or tilting it forward or rearward.