Using a Laser Level with a Skid Steer: A Practical Guide

[MikePhua]

Introduction
Skid steer loaders are among the most versatile and widely used pieces of heavy equipment on job sites. Whether for digging, grading, or material handling, the skid steer is capable of a variety of tasks that demand precision. However, achieving perfect grading or leveling on uneven terrain can be challenging. This is where the use of a laser level system can make a huge difference, providing both accuracy and efficiency.
Laser leveling technology has been around for decades, but in recent years, its integration with skid steer loaders has become more popular. This article will explore how to effectively use a laser level with a skid steer, the benefits of such a system, and the types of tasks that benefit from its use.
What is a Laser Level System?
A laser level is a tool that uses a laser beam to project a level reference line, which can be used to guide equipment or operators in achieving precise elevations and alignments. When used with a skid steer loader, the system consists of a laser transmitter (typically placed on a tripod or fixed point) and a receiver that attaches to the loader. The receiver detects the laser signal and provides real-time feedback to ensure the skid steer is maintaining the correct grade or slope.
There are two main types of laser levels used with skid steers:

1. Rotary Laser Levels: These provide a rotating laser beam that projects a 360-degree reference line.
   
2. Line Laser Levels: These offer a linear laser reference, which is ideal for precise horizontal or vertical tasks.
   

Both systems offer significant advantages in terms of speed, accuracy, and ease of use, particularly when working on grading, trenching, or construction projects.
Benefits of Using a Laser Level with a Skid Steer
Integrating a laser level system with a skid steer loader offers several key benefits for operators and project managers. These include:
1. Increased Accuracy
One of the primary reasons for using a laser level with a skid steer is to increase the precision of your work. Manual grading and leveling are prone to human error, which can lead to uneven surfaces or poor drainage. A laser system provides a constant, automatic reference, ensuring that the work is always level to the desired specifications.
For instance, when grading a driveway or preparing a site for a foundation, precise leveling is essential to prevent water pooling or uneven load distribution. A laser level can guarantee that every pass is consistent, reducing the likelihood of costly rework.
2. Faster Work Completion
Laser systems significantly speed up the grading and leveling process. Without a laser level, operators would need to measure and adjust the grade manually, a time-consuming process that often requires multiple passes. With the laser receiver on the skid steer, operators can make quick adjustments, reducing the amount of time spent on each task.
In projects that require a high level of precision—like landscape grading, road construction, or base preparation for paving—the ability to complete work faster without sacrificing quality is a considerable advantage.
3. Reduced Material Waste
A laser level ensures that only the necessary amount of material is moved, reducing material waste. Whether it’s dirt, gravel, or other construction materials, maintaining the correct grade reduces the need for additional material to be added or removed. This not only cuts costs but also improves sustainability by preventing over-excavation.
4. Enhanced Operator Confidence
Operators who use laser levels on skid steers often report increased confidence in their work. With a consistent, accurate reference, it’s easier to trust that the work is being completed to specifications. This reduces the stress and guesswork involved in manual grading, allowing the operator to focus on driving and controlling the machine.
How to Use a Laser Level with a Skid Steer
Using a laser level system with a skid steer is straightforward, but it requires attention to detail to ensure accurate results. Here’s a basic step-by-step guide on how to use the system effectively:
Step 1: Setup the Laser Transmitter
The laser transmitter should be set up on a stable platform or tripod, ideally at the center of the area you are working on. The height of the transmitter is crucial—ensure it is set at the correct elevation relative to the desired grade. Many systems have an automatic leveling feature that adjusts the laser automatically, but it’s important to double-check the setup.
Step 2: Attach the Laser Receiver to the Skid Steer
Next, attach the laser receiver to the skid steer loader. Most receivers are mounted on a bracket on the loader’s bucket or arm, allowing the operator to easily monitor the laser signal while in the cab. Ensure that the receiver is properly calibrated, so it accurately detects the laser beam and provides the correct readings.
Step 3: Adjust the Skid Steer’s Height
The laser system will indicate the current height of the skid steer’s loader arms relative to the target grade. If the receiver detects that the machine is too high or low, the operator will need to adjust the loader’s height using the skid steer’s hydraulic controls. The receiver typically provides an audible beep or visual indicator when the machine is at the correct height.
Step 4: Begin Grading
Once the system is set up and calibrated, the operator can begin the grading or leveling process. The laser level will continuously monitor the height of the machine as it moves, guiding the operator to ensure the grade is maintained throughout the task. Make sure to monitor the receiver’s feedback and adjust the loader’s height as necessary to maintain the correct grade.
Step 5: Final Check
After completing the task, it’s important to perform a final check of the surface to ensure it meets the required specifications. This might involve using a level or measuring tools to confirm the accuracy of the laser system’s work.
Applications of Laser Leveling with Skid Steers
Laser leveling is particularly useful in several applications where precision is critical. Some of the common tasks where laser leveling can significantly improve performance include:
1. Site Preparation and Grading
When preparing a construction site, ensuring a level foundation is crucial. A laser level can quickly and accurately establish a level grade across large areas, providing a solid foundation for building work, drainage systems, or pavement.
2. Road Construction and Maintenance
For road construction or maintenance projects, laser levels are used to ensure the correct slope and grading for proper drainage. Even small deviations in grading can lead to significant issues with water runoff or road integrity. Laser-guided skid steers provide precise control to avoid such problems.
3. Landscape Grading
In landscaping projects, whether it’s creating a level garden bed, grading a lawn, or establishing the base for a new path, laser levels ensure that the land is graded evenly, reducing the risk of water pooling or uneven surfaces.
4. Trenching and Excavation
When excavating trenches for utilities, laser levels help maintain consistent depth and slope, ensuring that utilities are installed at the correct grade. This is especially important in projects requiring a precise and uniform trench, such as installing pipes or cables.
Challenges and Considerations
While laser levels greatly improve accuracy and efficiency, there are a few considerations and challenges to keep in mind:

• Weather Conditions: Strong winds, rain, or fog can affect the laser’s performance, especially over long distances. It's important to ensure that weather conditions are suitable for using the laser level.
  
• Calibration: Regular calibration of the system is essential to ensure ongoing accuracy. Small shifts in the laser receiver or transmitter can lead to significant errors in the grading process.
  
• Machine Compatibility: Ensure that your skid steer is compatible with the laser level system. Some systems may require specific attachments or modifications to work effectively with different machine models.
  

Conclusion
Integrating a laser level system with a skid steer loader significantly enhances the precision, speed, and efficiency of grading, leveling, and excavation tasks. By ensuring accurate grades and reducing manual labor, laser leveling technology helps operators complete their tasks more quickly and with higher quality, ultimately reducing material waste and rework.
Whether used in road construction, landscaping, or site preparation, the use of laser levels with skid steers is an invaluable tool for anyone looking to achieve high standards in construction and earthmoving projects. Regular maintenance, proper calibration, and operator training are key to maximizing the benefits of laser leveling systems.