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In many cases, skid-steer loaders are called upon to break up concrete flatwork, foundations and block walls, adds Mike Fitzgerald, Bobcat Co. "Attachments such as a hydraulic breaker can cause stress on the skid-steer loader if it isn't operated properly," he points out. "It's important for operators to monitor the breaker's pressure and grease it to promote a longer life."

Protect your investment
When you set out to equip your machine, protect your investment by focusing on those areas most vulnerable to damage. At the top of the list is what's underneath your machine - its tires.

The estimated industry average for skid steer tread life ranges from 400 to 600 hours, depending on the application, operator skill and tire maintenance schedule, indicates Zupancic. "Abrasive surfaces, such as concrete and asphalt, and work areas with severe hazards, such as waste transfer, demolition and metal recycling, will result in faster worn tires," he says. "That's why it's important to choose the correct tire for your skid steer."

A traditional bias-ply tire is the most economical option from an initial investment standpoint, but its life can be most easily shortened in severe-service conditions. One tip for extending the life of a pneumatic tire is to run at the manufacturer's recommended air pressure and follow a recommended tire maintenance schedule, Zupancic suggests.

Many contractors choose to line bias tires with a protective gel (done during the manufacturing process) or to fill them with foam/polyurethane (aftermarket) to enhance survivability. Others use semi-pneumatic (also known as aperture) tires. And for extremely difficult conditions, you may want to consider solid tires. "These tires will stand up better in the harsh demolition jobsites," says Fitzgerald.