Skid Steer Cement Mixers in Jobsite Concrete Production

[MikePhua]

The Rise of Skid Steer-Mounted Mixers
Skid steer loaders have long been praised for their versatility, and the integration of cement mixers into their attachment ecosystem has expanded their utility into small-scale concrete production. Originally developed as a solution for remote pours and tight-access sites, skid steer-mounted mixers have become increasingly popular among contractors, landscapers, and utility crews. These attachments allow operators to mix, transport, and pour concrete without relying on external batch plants or wheelbarrow labor.
Manufacturers such as Eterra, Danuser, and Wolverine have produced thousands of units globally, with models ranging from 3 to 9 cubic feet in capacity. The concept gained traction in the early 2000s and has since become a staple in rental fleets and owner-operator setups.
Design Features and Operating Principles
A skid steer cement mixer typically mounts to the universal quick attach plate and is powered by the machine’s auxiliary hydraulics. Key components include:

• Mixing drum with internal paddles
  
• Hydraulic motor and planetary gearbox
  
• Dump gate or chute for controlled discharge
  
• Protective grate for safe loading
  
• Manual or hydraulic tilt mechanism
  

The drum rotates via hydraulic flow, allowing consistent mixing of aggregates, cement, and water. Some models include reversible rotation for better blending and easier discharge. Units with hydraulic tilt can pour directly into forms or trenches, reducing labor and improving precision.
Terminology Notes

• Auxiliary Hydraulics: The secondary hydraulic circuit on a skid steer used to power attachments.
  
• Planetary Gearbox: A compact gear system that multiplies torque from the hydraulic motor to rotate the drum.
  
• Quick Attach Plate: The standardized mounting interface used to connect attachments to the loader arms.
  
• Batch Volume: The amount of concrete that can be mixed in a single cycle, typically measured in cubic feet or liters.
  

Advantages Over Traditional Mixing Methods
Skid steer-mounted mixers offer several advantages:

• Mobility across uneven terrain and tight spaces
  
• On-demand mixing with no need for batch plant coordination
  
• Reduced labor for transport and pouring
  
• Ability to mix specialty blends or small batches
  
• Integration with other attachments for multi-step workflows
  

A contractor in Colorado used a skid steer mixer to pour fence post footings across a 40-acre property. The ability to mix and pour on the move saved two days of labor and eliminated the need for a separate mixer truck.
Challenges and Operational Considerations
Despite their benefits, these mixers require thoughtful operation:

• Hydraulic flow must match the mixer’s requirements (typically 12–25 GPM)
  
• Overloading the drum can strain the motor and reduce mix quality
  
• Cleaning after each use is essential to prevent buildup and corrosion
  
• Drum tilt mechanisms must be inspected regularly for wear
  
• Mixing time should be standardized to ensure consistency
  

In one case, a crew in Ontario experienced premature motor failure due to using a high-flow skid steer on a low-flow mixer. Matching flow rates and using pressure-reducing valves resolved the issue.
Maintenance and Longevity Tips
To maximize service life:

• Flush the drum with water immediately after each pour
  
• Grease tilt pivots and motor bearings weekly
  
• Inspect hydraulic hoses for abrasion and leaks
  
• Replace worn paddles to maintain mixing efficiency
  
• Store the mixer under cover to prevent rust and UV damage
  

A landscaping company in Florida added a custom rinse station to their yard, allowing operators to clean mixers quickly at the end of each shift. This reduced downtime and extended drum life by 30%.
Use Cases and Field Anecdotes
Skid steer mixers have proven useful in:

• Sidewalk and curb repair
  
• Fence and deck footing installation
  
• Utility trench backfill with flowable fill
  
• Small slab pours for sheds and pads
  
• Emergency infrastructure repair
  

A municipal crew in Michigan used a skid steer mixer during a water main break to pour rapid-set concrete around valve boxes. The mobility and speed allowed them to restore service within hours.
In Australia, a vineyard used a skid steer mixer to install trellis anchors across hilly terrain. Traditional mixers couldn’t reach the rows, but the skid steer navigated easily and poured directly into the holes.
Recommendations for Buyers and Operators
Before investing in a skid steer mixer:

• Verify hydraulic compatibility with your loader
  
• Choose drum size based on typical batch needs
  
• Consider tilt control type—manual vs hydraulic
  
• Look for removable grates and easy-clean designs
  
• Train operators on mixing ratios and safety protocols
  

Rental yards should inspect units between uses and provide clear instructions to customers. Misuse or neglect can lead to costly repairs and poor concrete quality.
Conclusion
Skid steer-mounted cement mixers offer a practical, efficient solution for small-scale concrete work. Their integration into compact equipment workflows reduces labor, improves mobility, and enables on-demand mixing in challenging environments. With proper maintenance and thoughtful operation, these attachments can transform how contractors approach concrete tasks—bringing batch plant capability to the jobsite, one bucket at a time.