Despite their smaller size, compact track loaders are true workhorses in the world of landscaping. Because they run on tracks instead of wheels, they can easily navigate slopes and tricky terrain. These cost-efficient, time-saving and versatile machines are ideal for long-term use.
Whether you recently bought a compact track loader or are considering purchasing one, it’s important to understand its different capabilities for landscaping tasks.
Compact track loaders are ideal for numerous landscaping tasks, including:
Below are various compact track loader characteristics that make them essential tools for tasks like lifting heavy materials, moving dirt and digging holes.
Compact track loaders feature a durable two-track system, giving them optimal stability and a broad weight distribution. These features — along with their reduced weight transfer to the ground — allow compact track loaders to work in wet, muddy and snowy conditions. They can also navigate soft, unstable surfaces like loose gravel and sand. Their tracks allow them to remain stable instead of sinking into these surfaces.
Compact track loaders can also handle sloped areas due to their low center of gravity and broad ground contact. As such, you can use these machines in worksites that other units may not be able to maneuver safely.
Here are some other advantages of these tracked configurations:
Compact track loaders offer the power and performance needed for productive landscaping projects — all in a compact package, as the name suggests. Unlike larger machines, they can seamlessly fit into tight spaces and condensed work areas, making them ideal for more precise and smaller-scale digging tasks.
Their small, lightweight nature makes transporting them between different job sites easy, letting you move quickly from one project to the next. Between their compact size and incredible versatility, these machines provide the performance and efficiency needed for small- and large-scale tasks alike.
It’s also worth noting that compact track loaders consume less fuel than larger machines, saving you money in the long haul. Besides landscaping, you’ll find them in several other industries, including construction, forestry, roadwork, waste management and agriculture.
Compact track loaders typically have higher lift capacities than other units like skid steers. Their tracks distribute their weight over a larger surface area, covering more ground. This feature allows them to move heavy material loads without losing traction and slipping. Additionally, compact track loaders usually have more horsepower than skid steers. That’s why they tend to suit tasks that require more power, such as clearing materials and dozing ground.
When it comes to lifting large loads, compact track loaders often feature high capacities for lifting and placing materials. Equipment manufacturers generally offer two designs — a vertical lift path and a radius lift path — to accommodate the necessary lifting levels for different tasks. A vertical path lifts materials up and down with multiple pivot points, while a radius path uses a single pivot point to lift loads on a curved path.
While both are suitable for digging and lifting materials, they are better for different tasks. For instance, a vertical lift path machine offers more reach and higher lift capacity, making it ideal for tasks involving vertical reach and taller heights. Meanwhile, a radial lift is better for working at low or mid-range heights, such as backfilling soil, unloading flatbed trucks and dumping materials.
A primary benefit of compact track loaders is that you can equip them with specialized attachments to accommodate different landscaping tasks. Equipment add-ons allow you to expand your project capabilities and services, ultimately increasing your revenue stream.
Depending on the specific attachment, you can use compact track loaders for various landscaping tasks. Examples include grinding stumps, hauling dirt and gravel, digging trenches and removing snow. Some convenient attachments for compact track loaders include:
Many operators find that compact track loaders offer a smoother, more comfortable ride than wheeled equipment. Their tracks deliver excellent stability and traction, improving their lifting force on soft and uneven surfaces. A lower center of gravity provides optimal support on inclines and unstable terrain, minimizing the risk of slips and tip-overs. Operators can have greater peace of mind with a safer, more secure working environment, remaining focused on the task at hand.
Additionally, newer compact track loader models provide more innovative cab features for enhanced driver comfort. For example, suspended seats allow more buffer between the operator and the machine’s frame. Air-ride seats offer increased protection for the driver, and some have full adjustability for the recline, slide, weight and armrest, ensuring a comfortable fit for different body types.
Most compact track loader models include heating and air conditioning as well. Operators can comfortably use these machines for several hours a day.
After exploring these must-have compact track loader features, you might be tempted to add this unit to your equipment fleet if you haven’t already. At Gregory Poole, we have an extensive selection of compact track loaders available for purchase, along with multiple parts and attachments to enhance productivity further.
Cat® compact track loaders can offer exceptional performance, power and technology for your landscaping projects. Their design includes a robust undercarriage and steel-embedded tracks for a long service life. When you purchase a new compact track loader from Gregory Poole, you can also access benefits like a robust dealer network, comprehensive service support and flexible financing options.
Browse our compact track loaders to find the right solution for your landscaping needs today. If you are ready to purchase your unit or have other questions, contact us or visit one of our North Carolina locations.
