In the world of skid steers, there are two lift options - radial or vertical. Although both machines perform all the same tasks from digging and loading to grading and stacking, there are differences you should be aware of, especially if you are in the market for one.
"Generally, people typically prefer the vertical lift," said Ben Krentz owner of ConEquip Parts.
When you begin to raise the arm, the radial-lift arm swings out in an arc before reaching its highest point. The loader arm on the vertical-lift machine on the other hand raises straight up and then out. The reason is each skid steer is designed for a particular type of job.
Radial-arm skid steers are best for excavating, grading and digging below grade. Vertical-lift machines are ideal for unloading material off trucks and loading dirt into a dump truck.
"It depends if they are loading and unloading flatbed trucks. For that, radial-lift is better. If they are loading dump truck, vertical-lift is better," Krentz said.
If you are in the market to buy or rent a machine, knowing which of the above you will be doing most of is important to know ahead of time.
The breakout force of the buckets for both the radial and vertical-lift options is much different because an operator doesn't usually raise the bucket more than three feet off the ground to dig. However, the lift arm breakout force changes when the arm is above three feet.
Vertical-lift machines will usually cost a little more depending on the make. In case you are wondering if you can convert from one to the other, Krentz has a simple answer.
"No, buy the right freaking machine the first time!"
In the end, both the radial and vertical-lift machines will get a bulk of the work done that is required of a skid steer. The only time you will notice a difference is when it comes to loading material.
See our other blog that couples which type of machine to get with the appropriate bucket! It will have a direct effect on efficiency within your company. Once you select a Skid Steer type, you should learn a little more about Attachments for your equipment.
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