Building a Shovel, Rake, and Broom Rack for Skid Steer Trailers

[MikePhua]

Skid steer loaders are among the most versatile pieces of equipment on construction sites, landscaping jobs, and farms. They can be fitted with a wide range of attachments, from buckets and forks to specialized tools like shovels, rakes, and brooms. However, storing and transporting these attachments can be a challenge without a proper rack or system in place. A well-designed shovel, rake, and broom rack for a skid steer trailer can enhance efficiency, ensure safe transportation, and protect expensive equipment from damage.
The Importance of Organizing Skid Steer Attachments
For any operator working with a skid steer, the ability to quickly access and switch between attachments is key to maintaining productivity. As skid steers can be fitted with various tools, from heavy-duty buckets to specialized attachments like snow blowers and grapple rakes, organizing these tools for transportation is vital. Storing multiple attachments on a trailer requires careful consideration to maximize space and prevent damage.
Without an organized system, attachments may be difficult to access, risk getting damaged from improper handling, or take up unnecessary space, complicating transport and logistics. A shovel, rake, and broom rack is designed to keep these tools securely stored and easily accessible, saving time and preventing accidental damage to valuable equipment.
Design Considerations for a Shovel, Rake, and Broom Rack
When building or purchasing a shovel, rake, and broom rack for a skid steer trailer, there are several key design features to consider. These features affect both the functionality and longevity of the rack, as well as how well it fits into the trailer.

1. Material Selection:
   • The rack should be constructed from durable, weather-resistant materials. Steel or aluminum are common choices for trailer racks due to their strength, durability, and ability to withstand the elements.
     
   • For outdoor storage, galvanizing or powder coating can help prevent rust and corrosion, particularly in damp or rainy environments.
     
2. Attachment Security:
   • The rack must hold the tools securely during transport. This can be achieved through adjustable straps, locking pins, or built-in clamps that can grip the shovel, rake, or broom handles without damaging them.
     
   • A good rack should prevent the tools from shifting or falling off during transit, reducing the risk of damage to the trailer or equipment.
     
3. Ease of Access:
   • The rack should allow for easy access to each tool. For example, shovels and rakes should be easy to slide in and out of the rack without requiring excessive effort or tools.
     
   • A well-organized rack will store each tool at an accessible height or angle, minimizing the time spent retrieving the equipment and reducing the physical strain on the operator.
     
4. Space Efficiency:
   • The rack design must make efficient use of space while keeping tools organized. A good rack should store multiple tools without taking up too much room on the trailer, allowing space for other equipment or attachments.
     
   • Adjustable racks can be beneficial, allowing the operator to modify the space for different tool sizes or even create a modular system that can be expanded or reconfigured based on needs.
     
5. Durability:
   • A rack that is exposed to the elements and rough job site conditions must be able to withstand vibrations, impacts, and the weight of the tools.
     
   • Reinforced corners, sturdy brackets, and high-quality welds are important for ensuring the rack can handle the rigors of daily use without bending or breaking.
     

Types of Shovel, Rake, and Broom Racks
When considering a rack for a skid steer trailer, there are several types of systems that might be used depending on the specific needs of the operator:

1. Fixed Racks:
   • Fixed racks are permanently mounted to the trailer. These racks are often designed to hold tools in place with adjustable brackets or slots. They offer a solid solution for permanent storage but can be less versatile if you need to reconfigure the rack frequently.
     
   • Fixed racks tend to be more robust and are a great option for trailers that regularly carry the same set of tools.
     
2. Foldable or Collapsible Racks:
   • Foldable racks are designed for easy storage when not in use. The rack can be collapsed to save space when the trailer is carrying other equipment or when the tools are not needed.
     
   • These racks are ideal for operators who require occasional tool storage and want the flexibility to remove the rack when it’s not in use.
     
3. Modular Racks:
   • Modular racks offer flexibility, as they can be expanded or reconfigured to accommodate various attachments. The modular nature allows for custom storage solutions, enabling operators to add sections as their attachment collection grows.
     
   • This system is highly adaptable and works well for operators with diverse needs, from shovels to larger attachments like brooms or forks.
     
4. Wheel-mounted or Rotatable Racks:
   • Some advanced rack systems come with the ability to rotate or swivel for easier access to tools. These racks often feature a set of wheels or a rotating mechanism that allows operators to position the rack at different angles.
     
   • These systems can save time and effort, particularly when tools are stored deep within the trailer.
     

Building Your Own Shovel, Rake, and Broom Rack
If you're planning to build your own rack for skid steer attachments, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Design the Layout:
   • Start by measuring the space available on your trailer. Determine how many tools you need to store and what sizes they are. Then, sketch a rough design of the rack to visualize where each tool will be placed.
     
2. Choose Materials:
   • Choose a strong material such as steel, which can support the weight of the tools. If weight is a concern, consider using aluminum. Choose weather-resistant finishes like powder coating or galvanizing to prevent corrosion.
     
3. Construct the Frame:
   • Build the basic frame of the rack. This typically involves welding or bolting together metal tubing or angle iron. Make sure the frame is sturdy and can withstand the forces from the tools during transport.
     
4. Install Adjustable Slots or Clamps:
   • Create adjustable slots or clamps that will hold the tools securely. You may need to weld or bolt brackets to hold the handles of shovels, rakes, or brooms.
     
   • Adding padding or rubber coating to these contact points can prevent scratches or damage to the tools.
     
5. Attach the Rack to the Trailer:
   • The rack should be securely mounted to the trailer, either by welding it in place or using bolts for easy removal. Ensure that it is firmly anchored to withstand the vibrations and movements during transport.
     
6. Final Touches:
   • Once the rack is built, check for smooth operation. Ensure that the tools fit snugly in their slots and can be easily removed when needed.
     
   • Test the stability by driving the trailer over rough terrain and observing how well the rack keeps the tools in place.
     

Benefits of a Properly Designed Rack

1. Time Efficiency:
   • By having a dedicated, organized place for each tool, operators can quickly access the equipment they need, reducing downtime and boosting productivity.
     
2. Tool Protection:
   • A proper rack prevents the tools from being damaged during transport. By keeping tools securely in place, the risk of bending, cracking, or chipping is minimized.
     
3. Improved Safety:
   • A well-organized rack ensures that tools are not rolling around inside the trailer, which can prevent accidents or injuries caused by tools falling or shifting unexpectedly.
     
4. Increased Trailer Capacity:
   • An organized tool storage solution means that you can fit more equipment into your trailer without wasting space. This can increase your load capacity and allow you to transport more tools or other equipment.
     

Conclusion
A shovel, rake, and broom rack for a skid steer trailer is a small but significant investment in enhancing efficiency, safety, and organization on the job site. Whether you choose to purchase a pre-made solution or build your own, designing a rack that suits your needs can drastically improve tool access, protect valuable attachments, and optimize trailer space. When properly constructed and maintained, a good rack will serve you for years, making it a key component in streamlining operations and reducing downtime.