Selecting the Best Compact Track Loader for Your Project

Compact track loaders are versatile workhorses that are becoming increasingly common on construction sites. Compact track loaders can be fitted with a range of attachments for a variety of duties including digging, lifting, pushing, and excavating. These small but mighty machines have rubber tracks, which means they can handle tough terrain with ease.

Jonathan Gardner, CE product specialist, Kubota Canada, has some tips about how to determine if a compact track loader would be a suitable acquisition for your next project.

“There’s a lot to consider when purchasing a compact track loader. Most importantly, where, and how will you be using your new machine? The surface you will be on also matters. Hard surfaces like cement and asphalt can cause premature wear on the tracks. However, track loaders provide smoother operation and excellent stability on uneven, muddy, sandy, or snowy surfaces, which makes them more productive and capable of better lifting in all conditions,” states Gardner, in an article on the website of Heavy Equipment Guide magazine.

Put simply, if ground conditions on your site are slippery and you want maximum performance in inclement weather, a compact track loader is an excellent investment. In addition to selecting a model that’s tough, maneuverable, and versatile, look for a low maintenance machine that’s simple to service.

Kubota’s new SVL97-2 compact track loader exemplifies these traits. This model blends power and performance, versatility and serviceability.

The SVL97-2 is driven by a 96.4 hp Kubota engine with Common Rail System (CRS) and Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) muffler for reduced maintenance. This compact track loader has a rated operating capacity of 3200 lbs, bucket breakout force of 7,961 pounds (3,611 kilos), and lift arm breakout force of 6,742 pounds (3,058 kilos).

This model can be fitted with a grapple bucket, pallet forks, heavy duty bucket, tree puller, breaker, cold planer, box blade with Trimble EarthWorks Go 2D grading system etc. Attachments are simple to secure and release thanks to a standard hydraulic quick coupler. The cab features multi-function levers, while a standard high-flow hydraulics system enhances performance. A telematics system tracks fuel level, temperatures, location, work hours, and other performance data.

There are five track rollers per side and a rear-view camera, for added visibility and operator safety. The cab is downright deluxe,  with air conditioning, roll up front door, a wide entrance, ample leg room, high-back full suspension seats and easy-open sliding windows. The cab is pressurized, to keep out bugs, dirt, debris, dust, and other airborne annoyances.

The SVL97-2 is built to be durable and easy to maintain. The rear-bonnet opens wide, offering access to internal components for inspection and servicing. There is a welded, integrated mainframe and undercarriage while Kubota’s original rubber tracks are sturdy and long-lasting.

To summarize, if you want a compact track loader that offers consistent performance on harsh terrain and in all kinds of weather, the Kubota SVL97-2 should be top of mind.