ForConstructionPros.com

You may often find yourself trying to achieve grade in very tight quarters. This is where compact track loaders (CTLs) and large skid-steer loaders can earn their keep.

"For many site prep jobs, a compact track loader with a six-way blade, box blade or GPS grade control may be the most effective tool for grading due to its size, speed and maneuverability," says Rick Harris, product specialist, Terex Construction Americas.

Jim Hughes, brand marketing manager, Case Construction Equipment, agrees, noting, "[They] are ideal machines for grading on a jobsite that requires maneuverability and a compact footprint. Jobsites [where] dozers and graders will not fit would be ideal for skid steers and compact track loaders."

Maneuverability and the ability to go over finished surfaces without damage are major advantages, adds Gregg Zupancic, product marketing manager for skid steers and CTLs, John Deere Worldwide Construction & Forestry. "They are easy to move from jobsite to jobsite," he states. "Also, the machines have the ability to morph into alternate machine forms by changing attachments on the front end. This provides the customers more diversity to complete many more tasks then a dedicated grading machine."

While both skid steers and CTLs can be effective on rough grades, Harris asserts that a CTL is the better option for finish grading. "Bigger models that feature the longest track length are better suited for grading because they have more horsepower and a wider/longer track base," he asserts. "This allows for a smoother grading run that isn't as impacted by undulating or uneven terrain."