The first two attachments any farmer should buy for their skid steer or tractor loader are a good set of pallet forks and a heavy duty bucket. Bar-none, this combination is the most practical and versatile solution for so many applications around the farm. But for many, what to buy next becomes confusing, and ROI hard to guarantee.
Here are three attachments that provide unexpected value.
1. Bale Spears
Bale spears are probably the most popular of these three, likely because they provide significant value in via their simple, easy to use design. Almost everyone who owns livestock uses hay bales. While there are alternative methods for moving hay bales, most commonly using pallet forks instead. This is not recommended as bale spears are far more effective and won’t unravel the bale if used properly.
Bale Spear Buying Tip
A great bale spear strikes a balance between sturdy construction and low profile design. Since the bale spear harnesses quite a bit of leverage, a high quality heat treated steel is best. A bale spear that is too large with too small of a taper runs the risk of unraveling the bale. Bale spears are available in a clamp on option which attaches directly to a bucket edge. Clamp-on bale spears may be less expensive than three-point or universal quick attach mounted bale spears, but eventually bow the bucket, and can cause damage to the machine. Look for three-point or universal quick attach mounted spears instead
2. Trailer Spotters
Sometimes called trailer hitches, trailer spotters are a fast way to move anything with a ball hitch, but can also be made to fit a 5th wheel and even be used as a mini-boom. The versatility and simplicity of a trailer spotter saves time and doesn’t typically require the driver to leave the cab to attach the hitch to the trailer.
Trailer Spotter Buying Tip
Trailer spotters have a surprising amount of options and modifications. Aside from buying a high-quality product made to maneuver trailers safely, it’s important to verify that the spotter fits your specific needs. Generally, most trailer spotters are made to simple move trailers. There are narrow widths available for tighter turning, and heavy-duty options available for larger trailers. However, specialty trailer spotters are also available. For instance, a lifting, spotting combo trailer spotter adds the ability to use the spotter like a fork mounted boom. Another great example is a 5th wheel spotter. These are used to maneuver larger trailers typically mounted onto a semi-trailer.
3. PTO Adapters
The problem with having both a tractor loader and a skid loader is hydraulics. The PTO adapter not only allows 3 point hitch attachments to mount to a skid loader, but also makes it possible to use PTO powered attachments.
PTO Adapters Buying Tip
PTO Adapters can add a ton of versatility to a skid steer. However, a few specific features will help make the most of the adapter. Make sure to use the correct hydraulic hose couplers and verify the GPM rating of your loader with the manufacturer. Also look for adjustable three point arms, as this will help properly couple any attachment.
Bonus Tip: Custom Attachments
Some of the most frustrating obstacles facing today’s farmers include having a problem, identifying an attachment solution, but then not having a machine to support it. Or, having a problem, identifying a solution, but finding no such attachment on the market. Many don’t realize that some attachment manufacturers and dealers have in-house custom fabrication shops capable of everything from product modification to entire custom builds. Custom solutions can be specifically engineered to meet your specific need.
Budget Attachments and Parts is a leading online retailer of replacement fork tines and attachments for skid steers, forklifts, wheel loaders, telehandlers and more.
