Track Loaders
The track loader is another variant of the standard tractor design. The track loader runs on tracks as opposed to wheels, differentiating it from the also popular wheel loaders. In appearance, the track loader is sometimes very similar to a bulldozer, as both have a very low clearance height above the ground and both are similarly sized. They also have very similar chassis. The difference lies in the fact that whereas a bulldozer has a blade at the front, a track loader has a bucket for picking up and carrying materials. The track loader has a top speed of around 5 miles an hour.
Tracked Loaders
Track loaders are considered to be extremely versatile, and while they are not as specialised as some other types of earth moving machinery, their small size and ease of use allows them to be utilised for a wide range of common tasks. There are several main types of tracked loaders available to buyers:
- M-Series Track Loaders. These loaders are some of the newest models available, and their main improvement over other models is the larger cab size. This affords the operator greater visibility and a smoother operation of the machine. The fuel capacity is also increased over other models.
- Skid Steer Loaders. These loaders have four wheels and the wheels on either side of the loader are independent. This means that the wheel speed and the wheel rotation will determine in which direction the loader will travel. They are therefore capable of zero-radius turns – essentially turning on the spot. This kind of loader is suitable for landscaping jobs, as well as digging and other general material transportation. They perform admirably in soft, muddy and loose ground conditions. The bucket on the skid loaders can be replaced by a large variety of specialised tools, such as a pallet fork, a hydraulic hammer, and a rake. The first skid steer loader was known as the Melroe Bobcat, and it is for this reason that 'Bobcat' is often used as a generic term for this particular kind of compact track loader.
- All Wheel Drive Loaders. These are a relatively new development, and as the name suggests, they differ from standard loaders in that they can be switched from skid steer mode into all wheel drive mode. This allows them to be nimble over many different types of terrain, while still retaining all the advantages of the skid steer track loaders.
- Mini Track Loaders. These loaders are the smallest of all the variants and are typically operated by the user walking behind the loader. Their tiny size allows them to be used in extremely tight spaces and areas of little access, and they can even be safely used in gardens without ripping up any of the turf. Like the larger loaders on which they are based, they can still be outfitted with a wide variety of tools. This type of loader can successfully carry out a number of tasks that would usually be done using hand tools.