Finding the Right Bucket for a 1994 Thomas HL173 Skid Steer

[MikePhua]

The Thomas HL173 and Its Place in Compact Equipment History
The Thomas Equipment HL173 skid steer was part of a generation of compact loaders built for versatility and rugged performance. Manufactured in the early 1990s by Thomas Equipment, a Canadian company with roots dating back to 1940, the HL173 was designed for contractors, landscapers, and farmers needing a reliable machine with a small footprint and strong lifting capacity.
With an operating weight around 6,000 lbs and a rated operating capacity of approximately 1,700 lbs, the HL173 featured a robust hydraulic system, mechanical simplicity, and a universal quick-attach system that allowed it to use a wide range of buckets and attachments. Though Thomas Equipment ceased skid steer production in the late 2000s, many HL-series machines remain in service today, especially in rural and independent contractor fleets.
Terminology Annotation

• Quick-Attach System: A standardized mounting interface that allows operators to switch buckets and attachments without tools.
  
• Flat-Faced Coupler: A hydraulic connector design that minimizes fluid loss and contamination during attachment changes.
  
• Low-Profile Bucket: A bucket with a shallow back and longer floor, improving visibility and grading performance.
  
• High-Capacity Bucket: A deeper bucket designed for light materials like mulch or snow, not ideal for dense soil or gravel.
  

Bucket Compatibility and Mounting Considerations
The HL173 uses a standard two-pin quick-attach plate, similar to the Bobcat-style interface that became an industry norm. This means most aftermarket buckets designed for skid steers will physically fit the machine, but not all will perform optimally.
Key compatibility factors:

• Width: 60–72 inches is ideal for the HL173, balancing coverage and hydraulic load
  
• Capacity: 0.4–0.6 cubic yards for general-purpose use
  
• Weight: Bucket should not exceed 500 lbs to preserve lifting capacity
  
• Edge type: Bolt-on cutting edge recommended for replaceability and wear resistance
  

In one landscaping crew in Vermont, an HL173 was paired with a 66-inch low-profile bucket for grading driveways. The operator noted improved visibility and smoother feathering compared to the original factory bucket, which had a taller back and limited sightlines.
Sourcing Options and Aftermarket Solutions
Since Thomas Equipment no longer manufactures buckets, owners must rely on aftermarket suppliers or salvage yards. Fortunately, the universal mounting system opens access to a wide range of options.
Recommended sourcing strategies:

• Search by interface type (Bobcat-style quick attach)
  
• Confirm pin spacing and plate dimensions before purchase
  
• Consider used buckets from retired machines with similar specs
  
• Look for reinforced sidewalls and wear strips for longevity
  
• Avoid oversized buckets that exceed hydraulic or tipping limits
  

In one equipment yard in Ohio, a contractor retrofitted a bucket from a Case 1845C to fit his HL173 by adjusting the pin spacing and welding a new backing plate. The result was a durable, cost-effective solution that performed well in gravel and topsoil.
Bucket Selection Based on Task Type
Different tasks require different bucket profiles:

• General-purpose digging: Standard bucket with moderate depth and flat floor
  
• Grading and finish work: Low-profile bucket with long floor and shallow back
  
• Snow removal: High-capacity bucket with tall sides and curved back
  
• Rock and demolition: Heavy-duty bucket with reinforced edges and wear plates
  

Operators should match bucket type to hydraulic flow and machine stability. In one demolition job in Alberta, using a reinforced bucket with a tooth bar allowed the HL173 to break up compacted asphalt without damaging the loader arms.
Maintenance and Performance Tips
To extend bucket life and ensure safe operation:

• Inspect welds and mounting pins weekly
  
• Grease pivot points and coupler locks regularly
  
• Replace cutting edge when worn beyond 25% thickness
  
• Avoid prying or side-loading with standard buckets
  
• Store buckets off the ground to prevent rust and warping
  

In one municipal fleet in Maine, implementing a monthly bucket inspection checklist reduced attachment failures by 40% and improved operator confidence during snow season.
Final Thoughts
The 1994 Thomas HL173 remains a capable skid steer, and with the right bucket, it can tackle a wide range of tasks from grading to hauling. While OEM parts may be scarce, the universal quick-attach system ensures that aftermarket solutions are within reach. With careful selection, proper sizing, and routine maintenance, the HL173 can continue serving reliably for years to come.
In compact equipment, the bucket is the handshake with the earth. And when it fits right and cuts clean, the job moves forward.