Is It Worth Adding a Two-Speed Drive to a Skid Steer

[MikePhua]

The Purpose and Function of Two-Speed Systems
A two-speed drive system in a skid steer loader allows the operator to switch between low and high travel speeds. In low-speed mode, the machine delivers maximum torque and control for digging, grading, and maneuvering in tight spaces. High-speed mode enables faster travel across job sites, reducing cycle times and improving productivity when moving between tasks.
Most modern skid steers offer two-speed as an optional feature or standard on premium models. Machines like the Bobcat S650, Case SV280, and Caterpillar 262D3 include two-speed drives capable of reaching travel speeds up to 12 mph, compared to 6–7 mph in single-speed configurations.
Terminology Notes

• Hydrostatic Drive: A propulsion system using hydraulic motors to power the wheels or tracks.
  
• Travel Speed: The maximum ground speed a machine can achieve under load.
  
• Final Drive Motor: The hydraulic motor mounted at each wheel or track hub, responsible for propulsion.
  
• Flow Divider Valve: A hydraulic component that splits flow between drive motors to maintain speed balance.
  

Benefits of Upgrading to Two-Speed
Adding a two-speed system can offer several advantages:

• Faster travel across large job sites or between staging areas
  
• Reduced operator fatigue from long-distance repositioning
  
• Improved efficiency in material handling and load cycles
  
• Enhanced resale value and marketability of the machine
  

A contractor in Texas retrofitted his single-speed loader with a two-speed kit and reported a 20% reduction in daily travel time across a 10-acre site. The upgrade paid for itself in under six months through fuel savings and labor efficiency.
Challenges and Compatibility Considerations
Retrofitting a two-speed system is not always straightforward. Key challenges include:

• Compatibility with existing hydraulic architecture
  
• Sourcing matched final drive motors with two-speed capability
  
• Installing additional solenoids, wiring, and control switches
  
• Reprogramming the machine’s control module if electronically managed
  

Some older machines lack the hydraulic flow or electrical infrastructure to support two-speed conversion. In such cases, partial upgrades may be possible, but performance gains will be limited.
A technician in Alberta attempted to add two-speed to a mid-2000s loader but discovered the hydraulic pump lacked sufficient flow to support high-speed mode without sacrificing torque. The project was abandoned after partial disassembly.
Recommended Components and Installation Strategy
To successfully add a two-speed system:

• Source OEM or compatible two-speed final drive motors
  
• Install a dedicated solenoid valve to switch flow paths
  
• Add a toggle switch or momentary button in the cab
  
• Verify hydraulic pressure and flow requirements match motor specs
  
• Test for heat buildup and pressure spikes during operation
  

A fleet manager in Georgia installed a two-speed kit on five compact track loaders. He added pressure gauges and thermal sensors to monitor system health during the first 100 hours. No failures were reported, and operators praised the added mobility.
Cost and Return on Investment
Typical retrofit costs range from $2,500 to $6,000 depending on machine model, labor rates, and parts availability. ROI depends on jobsite layout and usage patterns. For machines used in landscaping, roadwork, or large-scale grading, the time savings can be substantial.
A municipal crew in Wisconsin calculated that their two-speed loaders saved 15 minutes per operator per day during snow removal. Over a season, this translated to over 100 labor hours saved across the fleet.
Anecdote from the Field
In 2023, a small excavation firm in Maine added two-speed capability to their aging skid steer to improve productivity on a multi-lot development. The machine previously took over five minutes to travel from the material pile to the trench line. After the upgrade, the same trip took less than two minutes. The owner noted that the loader felt “like a different machine” and began using it for tasks previously assigned to larger equipment.
Conclusion
Adding a two-speed drive system to a skid steer can be a game-changer for mobility and efficiency, especially on expansive or repetitive job sites. While retrofitting requires careful planning and component matching, the performance gains often justify the investment. For operators tired of crawling across the jobsite, two-speed isn’t just a luxury—it’s a productivity tool worth considering.