Can a Skid Steer Operate as a Forklift in Tight Spaces

[MikePhua]

The Rise of Compact Skid Steers
Skid steer loaders have evolved dramatically since their inception in the late 1950s. Originally developed by the Keller brothers and marketed by Melroe Manufacturing (later Bobcat), the skid steer was designed for maneuverability in confined spaces. Over the decades, manufacturers like Caterpillar, Case, John Deere, and Kubota have refined the design, integrating hydraulic quick couplers, advanced auxiliary circuits, and electronic control systems.
By 2020, global skid steer sales exceeded 100,000 units annually, with compact models dominating urban construction, landscaping, and agricultural sectors. Their versatility stems from the ability to swap attachments—buckets, augers, trenchers, and even forklift masts—making them a favorite among small contractors and property owners.
Concept of a Forklift Mast on a Skid Steer
One innovative idea gaining traction is mounting a forklift mast onto a compact skid steer. The goal is to lift loads under 1,000 lbs to heights of approximately 12 feet, particularly in narrow areas where traditional forklifts struggle. The mast would be powered by the skid steer’s auxiliary hydraulics but remain mechanically independent of the lift arms. This configuration allows the mast to raise and lower using its own hydraulic cylinders, while the skid steer arms remain stationary.
This setup is especially useful in gravel yards, tight warehouse alleys, or residential construction zones where maneuverability is critical and vertical reach is occasionally required.
Terminology Annotation

• Auxiliary Hydraulics: Secondary hydraulic circuits on a skid steer used to power attachments like grapples, augers, or masts.
  
• Forklift Mast: A vertical assembly with hydraulic cylinders and chains that raises and lowers forks independently of the host vehicle’s arms.
  
• Quick Coupler: A mechanism that allows fast attachment changes without manual pin removal.
  
• Lift Arms: The primary arms on a skid steer that raise and lower attachments.
  

Engineering Considerations and Safety
Mounting a forklift mast on a skid steer requires careful engineering. The mast must be securely attached to the skid steer’s frame or arms, with hydraulic lines routed cleanly to avoid pinch points. Key parameters include:

• Hydraulic flow rate (typically 15–25 GPM for compact models)
  
• Pressure rating (usually 3,000–3,500 psi)
  
• Mast weight and center of gravity
  
• Load rating and stability under dynamic conditions
  

Safety is paramount. Unlike dedicated forklifts, skid steers lack counterweights and rearward visibility. Lifting loads high can destabilize the machine, especially on uneven terrain. Operators must be trained to avoid sudden movements, and the mast should include a load backrest to prevent cargo from tipping backward.
In one case from Indiana, a contractor used a Bobcat S650 with a custom mast to lift HVAC units onto a mezzanine. The setup worked well until a sudden turn caused the unit to sway, nearly tipping the loader. After adding stabilizer legs and a tilt sensor, the system became reliable and safe.
Advantages of the Hybrid Setup

• Cost savings: A skid steer with a mast attachment is significantly cheaper than owning both a loader and a forklift.
  
• Space efficiency: Ideal for tight areas where forklifts cannot maneuver.
  
• Multi-functionality: The same machine can grade gravel, lift pallets, and dig trenches.
  
• Seasonal flexibility: Useful for snow removal in winter and material handling in summer.
  

Limitations and Alternatives
Despite its versatility, this hybrid setup has limitations:

• Limited lift height compared to telescopic handlers
  
• Reduced visibility during high lifts
  
• Lower load capacity than industrial forklifts
  
• Potential hydraulic lag if the skid steer’s flow is insufficient
  

Alternatives include:

• Compact telehandlers with 360-degree visibility and higher reach
  
• Walk-behind pallet stackers for indoor use
  
• Articulated loaders with integrated forks
  

Historical Context and Market Trends
Forklifts date back to the early 20th century, with Clark and Yale pioneering electric and internal combustion models. By the 1950s, mast designs became standardized, allowing vertical stacking in warehouses. Today, the global forklift market exceeds $50 billion, with electric models gaining popularity due to emissions regulations.
Skid steers, meanwhile, have carved a niche in outdoor and mixed-use environments. The fusion of forklift functionality into skid steers reflects a broader trend toward equipment modularity—where one base unit can perform multiple roles through smart attachments.
Recommendations for Implementation
For those considering this setup, here are practical steps:

• Choose a skid steer with high-flow hydraulics and a rated operating capacity above 2,000 lbs
  
• Source a mast with integrated hydraulic lift and tilt functions
  
• Install a load backrest and safety cage if lifting near personnel
  
• Use counterweights or rear ballast if lifting near maximum capacity
  
• Conduct a stability test with full load at maximum height
  
• Train operators on load dynamics and emergency procedures
  

Final Thoughts
Transforming a compact skid steer into a forklift is a creative solution for small-scale operations needing vertical lift in tight quarters. While not a replacement for industrial forklifts, it offers a flexible, cost-effective alternative when used thoughtfully. As equipment continues to evolve, such hybrid applications will likely become more common, driven by the need for efficiency, adaptability, and innovation in the field.