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The primary use of a skid-steer loader is as a power source," says Kelly Moore, skid-steer and track loader product manager, Gehl Co. Versatility to run a wide array of attachments means performance can be measured using several different criteria.

You must understand how you intend to use the loader and determine which criteria are important. "Compare all of the specifications before making a decision," says Moore. This includes the specifications of larger and smaller models from the same manufacturer, as well as competitive units. Compare dump heights, bucket rollback angles, hydraulic pressures, hydraulic flows, engine power, breakout force, etc.

The optimum loader for your application is based on several operating parameters. "The loader's weight, horsepower, hydraulic flow and hydraulic pressure will play a role in how well the attachment performs," says Mike Fitzgerald, Bobcat product loader specialist. "The skid-steer loader customer should work closely with their dealership to best match the needs of the application with the best machine."

Match hydraulic flows and pressures

Hydraulically-powered attachments require a specific level of performance from the carrier's hydraulic system. "An attachment usually has a range of flows and pressures," says Moore. Suitable carriers must be able to provide flow and pressure that fall within that range.

Hydraulic horsepower can also be a useful comparison measure to determine the capability of a given unit. It is calculated by multiplying the pressure (psi) times the flow (gpm), then dividing by 1,714. "If hydraulic horsepower is not adequate, performance will be poor, as well as detrimental to the skid-steer loader," says Jim Hughes, product marketing manager, Case Construction Equipment.