The dimension information of the loader is sometimes shown with visuals rather than tables in the skid steer and compact track loader catalogs. When compared to other models, this can sometimes make things difficult. To prevent this, we’ve made a page that explains what each of the image’s dimensions means. The table and image example taken are from the Bobcat manual.
| A | Max. Operating Height |
| B | Height with Operator CAB |
| C | Angle of Departure |
| D | Ground Clearance |
| E | Ground Contact Length |
| F | Length without Attachment |
| G | Length with Standard Bucket |
| H | Rollback at Ground Position |
| I | Dump Height with Standard Bucket |
| J | Height to Bucket Hinge Pin |
| K | Dump Reach at Maximum Height |
| L | Dump angle at maximum height |
| M | Rollback Fully Raised at Maximum Height |
| N | Bucket Width |
| O | Turning Radius with Standard Bucket |
| P | Track Width |
| Q | Width Over Tracks |
Finally, when reviewing a loader’s dimensions, we advise you to take into account standard tire size or track width.
Working in Tight Spaces
If you plan to use your skid steer loader in narrow aisles or cramped spaces, you should opt for models with a narrower width. The narrow width allows the machine to fit into tight spaces and maneuver more easily. I can recommend the following skid steer loaders for this type of work:
- Bobcat S70
- John Deere 312GR
- Caterpillar 226D3
- Kubota SCL1000
- New Holland L316
Lifting Height Requirements
For tasks such as lifting materials into tall buildings or reaching high shelves, it is important to choose models with a high lifting height. A high lifting capacity is a great advantage, especially in construction projects. Here are some mini-loaders I recommend for use in such projects:
- Bobcat T870
- John Deere 333G
- Caterpillar 299D3
- Kubota SVL95-2S
- New Holland C345
Heavy Load Handling
For handling heavy materials or working on large projects, it is essential to choose a model with a high payload capacity. This is a vital factor, especially if you work in industries such as construction or mining. Here are some skid steer loader models I recommend for this type of work:
- Cat 272D, 289D and 299D
- Bobcat T770 and T870
- John Deere 333G
- Kubota SVL95 or SVL97
- New Holland C345
- Takeuchi TL12
- ASV RT120
To make the right choice for your projects, it is important to pay attention to the skid steer dimensions to make the right decision. Also, remember that it is not enough to focus only on skid steer dimensions. It is also important to examine other specifications such as engine power, lifting capacity, rating operating capacity, hydraulic performance, and weights.
Turning Radius
Turning Radius refers to the distance a loader makes its tightest turn. In simple terms, it shows how tight a circle the machine can turn in the place where it is. Turning radius is a critical factor in maneuverability, especially when working in tight spaces. For operators working in tight spaces, machines with a small turning radius can complete work with fewer movements and work faster. This increases work efficiency, especially in areas such as construction, warehousing and agriculture.
Some Models with Narrow Turning Radius
Below I will list some skid steer loaders with narrow turning diameters for you. Of course, there are many models with narrow turning diameters other than the ones I have listed below, but I wanted to write for you the models I have experienced.
Caterpillar
The Cat 239D and Cat 226D have relatively small turning radii and are optimized for working in tight spaces. With their strong performance and rugged construction, they can be safely used in construction and industrial projects.
Case
The Case SR130 and Case SR160B are compact models with small turning radii. They provide high productivity, especially in projects that require working in cramped spaces. They can be easily used in agriculture, landscaping and construction projects.
John Deere
The John Deere 312GR and John Deere 317G are models with small turning radius, ideal for working in tight spaces. Their compact design allows them to be used comfortably on cramped construction sites and in confined spaces.
Bobcat
The Bobcat S70 is one of the most productive models in tight spaces with its compact structure and very small turning radius. It is ideal for working in confined and limited spaces. The Bobcat S450, on the other hand, has a small turning radius, is suitable for more medium-sized projects, and provides high maneuverability in tight spaces.
Takeuchi and JCB
The Takeuchi TL8 and JCB 215T have powerful engines and can be used on larger projects, but they also offer flexibility in tight spaces. These models offer efficient work in tight spaces with powerful engines, but can also be used on larger projects.
ASV, Toro, and Gehl
Models such as the ASV VT70, Toro Dingo 320D, and Gehl R105 have extremely small turning radius for maximum productivity in tight spaces and on small projects
Angle of Departure
Angle of Departure is the angle at which the rear of the machine can exit a steep surface without touching the ground. This angle indicates the maximum slope at which the rear of the machine can exit without rubbing or snagging on the ground.
Why is it important?
When working in the field, the loader needs to be able to exit safely from steep surfaces, ramps, or high areas. The greater the angle of departure, the better the machine’s ability to exit at steep angles. A low angle can cause the rear of the loader to catch on the ground, which can cause problems during operation.
Example Application
When traversing steep ramps or areas with a height difference, machines with a large angle move more easily.
Rollback at Ground Position
Rollback at Ground Position refers to how far the loader’s bucket or attachment can tilt backwards when it is close to the ground. This indicates how far you can tilt the bucket back to prevent material from falling out of the bucket.
Why is it important?
During material handling, especially when handling light and loose materials (sand, gravel, etc.), a large rollback angle ensures that the material remains safely in the bucket. A sufficiently large rollback angle prevents the material from spilling during transportation and gives the operator control.
Example Application
After filling the bucket with material close to the ground, the capacity to tilt the bucket backwards is important so that the material can be transported without falling.
Dump Angle at Maximum Height
Dump Angle at Maximum Height indicates how far you can dump the bucket forward when the loader arm is raised to the highest position. This angle refers to the degree of bucket tilt when dumping the material inside the bucket.
Why is it important?
The greater this angle, the more efficiently you can empty the material (soil, gravel, etc.) from the bucket. When the bucket angle is not enough, the material may remain in the bucket or the emptying process may be more difficult and inefficient.
Example Application
When unloading material into a high dump truck or pouring material into a container, a high dump angle ensures that the material is unloaded smoothly.