Erickson LC4D Skid Steer and the Forgotten Origins of Compact Power

[MikePhua]

The Rise and Disappearance of Erickson Equipment
In the early 1960s, as compact construction equipment began to reshape small-scale earthmoving, Erickson Corporation emerged as a niche manufacturer of skid steer loaders. Based in the Midwest, Erickson was among the first to experiment with compact, chain-driven machines powered by air-cooled gasoline engines. The LC4D model, one of their more widely distributed units, was built during this formative period—likely between 1965 and 1975.
Erickson’s designs were simple, rugged, and heavily influenced by agricultural utility. Their machines were often sold regionally and sometimes rebranded or cross-referenced with early Ford skid steer models like the CL30 and CL40. In fact, many parts between the LC4D and Ford CL-series loaders are interchangeable, a legacy of shared tooling and design licensing.
Terminology annotation:

• Skid steer loader: A compact, four-wheel or tracked machine with fixed wheels and differential steering, used for digging, grading, and material handling.
  
• Chain drive: A mechanical system using chains and sprockets to transmit power from the engine to the wheels.
  

By the late 1980s, Erickson had sold its tooling and intellectual property to Art’s Way Manufacturing, effectively ending its production. Today, the LC4D survives mostly in private yards, small farms, and restoration projects.
LC4D Specifications and Powertrain
The LC4D was typically powered by a Wisconsin VH4D four-cylinder air-cooled gasoline engine, producing around 30 horsepower. This engine was known for its simplicity and reliability, though it required regular valve adjustments and carburetor tuning. The machine used a chain-driven transmission system with manual controls and mechanical linkages.
Core specifications:

• Engine: Wisconsin VH4D, 4-cylinder, air-cooled
  
• Power: ~30 HP
  
• Transmission: Chain drive with mechanical clutches
  
• Controls: Manual levers for drive and lift
  
• Lift capacity: Estimated 800–1000 lbs
  
• Tires: 10x16.5 standard pneumatic
  

Terminology annotation:

• Mechanical clutch: A manually operated device that engages or disengages power transmission between the engine and drivetrain.
  
• Pneumatic tires: Air-filled rubber tires, offering shock absorption and traction.
  

In one restoration case in Iowa, a farmer rebuilt an LC4D using salvaged parts from a Ford CL40 and a donor VH4D engine sourced from a retired generator. After replacing the ignition coil and rebuilding the carburetor, the machine returned to service clearing snow and hauling feed.
Parts Availability and Cross-Compatibility
Finding parts for the LC4D can be challenging, but not impossible. Because of its design overlap with Ford CL-series machines, many drivetrain and hydraulic components are still available through vintage equipment suppliers. Wisconsin Motors continues to support the VH4D engine, and aftermarket kits for ignition, carburetors, and gaskets are widely distributed.
Recommended sourcing strategies:

• Use Ford CL30/CL40 parts catalogs for drivetrain and frame components
  
• Contact Wisconsin Motors for engine parts and manuals
  
• Retrofit hydraulic hoses and fittings using modern SAE standards
  
• Fabricate sheet metal panels and foot controls if originals are missing
  
• Salvage donor machines or contact regional tractor salvage yards
  

Terminology annotation:

• SAE standards: Engineering specifications developed by the Society of Automotive Engineers, commonly used in hydraulic and mechanical systems.
  
• Donor machine: A non-operational unit used for harvesting usable parts.
  

One operator in Minnesota rebuilt his LC4D’s lift arms using fabricated bushings and pins from a local machine shop, after discovering that the original Erickson parts were no longer available. The retrofit worked flawlessly and cost less than $200.
Operational Characteristics and Maintenance Tips
The LC4D is a purely mechanical machine, with no electronic controls or sensors. This simplicity makes it ideal for remote or low-tech environments, but it also demands regular attention. Common maintenance tasks include:

• Checking chain tension and lubrication weekly
  
• Adjusting clutch linkages and brake bands
  
• Cleaning and oiling air filters
  
• Inspecting tire wear and replacing inner tubes
  
• Monitoring engine temperature and valve lash
  

Terminology annotation:

• Valve lash: The clearance between the valve stem and rocker arm, critical for proper engine timing and performance.
  
• Brake band: A friction device wrapped around a drum, used to slow or stop rotation.
  

In a small logging operation in Oregon, an LC4D was used to haul brush and logs across uneven terrain. The operator noted that chain tension was critical—too loose and the machine would jerk during turns, too tight and the chains would snap under load.
Modern Relevance and Collector Interest
Though obsolete by modern standards, the LC4D holds value for collectors, hobbyists, and small-scale operators. Its mechanical simplicity, compact footprint, and historical significance make it a favorite among vintage equipment enthusiasts. Some have even converted LC4Ds to electric drive or hydraulic upgrades, preserving the frame while modernizing the internals.
Suggestions for restoration:

• Replace mechanical clutches with hydraulic motors for smoother control
  
• Install LED work lights and battery cutoff switches
  
• Add ROPS (Roll Over Protective Structure) for safety
  
• Repaint using original Erickson yellow or custom schemes
  

Terminology annotation:

• ROPS: A structural frame designed to protect the operator in case of rollover.
  
• Battery cutoff switch: A manual switch that disconnects the battery from the electrical system, preventing drain or fire risk.
  

In a 2022 equipment show in Indiana, a restored LC4D won the “Best Vintage Compact” award after a full rebuild and repaint. The owner had sourced parts from three states and fabricated his own decals based on old photographs.
Conclusion
The Erickson LC4D skid steer is a relic of early compact equipment engineering—simple, durable, and surprisingly capable. Though the brand has faded into obscurity, its machines continue to serve and inspire. With a bit of ingenuity and mechanical skill, the LC4D can be revived, repurposed, and remembered as a foundational piece of skid steer history.