Skid Steer Controls and Operation

[MikePhua]

Skid steers are among the most versatile and widely used pieces of heavy machinery on construction sites, landscaping projects, and in agriculture. The key to their efficiency and usability lies in their control systems. The intuitive operation of skid steers can be attributed to their unique control mechanisms that enable precise maneuverability and versatility. This article dives into the various types of skid steer controls, their operation, and how these systems impact performance and operator efficiency.
Types of Skid Steer Control Systems
Skid steers typically operate using two major control systems: Standard (or Mechanical) Controls and Pilot or Joystick Controls. Each system has its own strengths, catering to different operator preferences and job requirements. The choice of control system can significantly influence the overall operation of the skid steer.
Standard Controls
Standard controls are the traditional method used for operating skid steers. This system typically uses two hand levers and foot pedals. The levers control the movement of the skid steer’s wheels or tracks, while the foot pedals manage the bucket tilt and lift.

• Movement Control: The left and right hand levers control the direction of travel. Pulling both levers back makes the machine move backward, while pushing them forward moves the machine forward. The left lever controls the left side of the machine, and the right lever controls the right side. This gives the skid steer its characteristic ability to turn on a dime, making it highly maneuverable in tight spaces.
  
• Bucket Control: Foot pedals manage the lifting and tilting of the bucket or attachment. The right pedal typically controls the bucket lift, while the left pedal manages the tilt. Operators must coordinate their hands and feet to control both movement and the bucket or other attachments.
  

This type of system is straightforward and highly functional, but it does require operators to use both hands and feet for optimal control, which may take time to master.
Pilot or Joystick Controls
Pilot or joystick controls have become the preferred choice for many modern skid steers, offering a more intuitive and precise control system. These controls utilize one or two joysticks to manage all functions of the machine, including movement and attachment control.

• Single Joystick Control: A single joystick controls both forward/backward movement and side-to-side turning. Pushing the joystick forward or backward moves the machine in those directions, while tilting the joystick left or right turns the machine in that direction. This simplified control allows for smoother, more fluid operation, and is often easier for new operators to learn.
  
• Dual Joystick Control: Some skid steers are equipped with two joysticks, one for each side of the machine. This system gives operators independent control over each side of the skid steer, offering even greater precision in maneuvering. The right joystick controls the right side of the machine, and the left joystick controls the left side.
  

Both joystick systems manage the bucket tilt and lift functions as well, making them easier to operate without the need for foot pedals. In addition, joystick systems often come with adjustable sensitivity settings to allow the operator to customize their experience according to the task at hand.
Pros and Cons of Each System
Standard Controls:

• Pros:
  • Traditional and widely understood by operators with previous experience in older machinery.
    
  • Simple design, with fewer potential points of failure.
    
  • Often less expensive compared to joystick-controlled systems.
    
• Cons:
  • Requires simultaneous hand and foot coordination, which can be challenging for some operators.
    
  • Less precise than joystick systems, especially when working in tight or restricted areas.
    
  • Can be physically tiring for long-duration operations.
    

Joystick Controls:

• Pros:
  • More intuitive, as the operator can control movement and bucket functions with their hands alone.
    
  • Increased precision in maneuvering, especially in confined spaces.
    
  • Typically reduces operator fatigue due to the simplified controls.
    
• Cons:
  • Higher learning curve for operators who are used to standard controls.
    
  • More expensive due to the complexity of the system.
    
  • Potential for more maintenance issues if the joystick or electronic system fails.
    

Hydraulic Controls and Pilot Systems
Many modern skid steers are now equipped with pilot controls, a type of hydraulic system that allows for extremely responsive, high-efficiency operation with minimal effort. Pilot systems use hydraulic fluid to transmit control signals to the machine's drivetrain and attachments. This results in smoother operation and precise adjustments. In some cases, joystick systems are integrated with pilot controls, further enhancing performance and reducing the mechanical complexity of the control system.
Pilot-controlled systems are often found on newer, higher-end skid steers and offer significantly reduced effort for operators when lifting, tilting, or steering the machine.
Adjusting to Operator Preferences
One of the major benefits of modern skid steers is the ability to adjust the control systems to fit individual operator preferences. Many joystick-controlled models come with adjustable settings, such as the sensitivity of the joysticks, the speed of movement, and the response time of the bucket functions.
In some cases, a "toggle" feature allows operators to easily switch between different control modes. For example, some operators may prefer the responsiveness of joystick controls for tight spaces, but when working on rough terrain, they may opt for the precision of standard controls to provide more mechanical feedback.
Safety Considerations and Ergonomics
Operator safety and comfort are always top priorities in skid steer design. Modern control systems are often designed to reduce operator strain and improve safety. Joystick controls, for instance, often come with padded, ergonomic handles, reducing hand fatigue during long hours of operation.
Additionally, many skid steers now feature thumb and finger buttons on joysticks that can control additional functions, such as auxiliary hydraulics or speed adjustments. This allows operators to maintain full control without needing to shift their hands or take their eyes off their work.
Conclusion
Skid steer controls play a crucial role in the versatility and effectiveness of this equipment. Whether an operator prefers the traditional hand-lever-foot-pedal method or the more modern joystick system, each type has its unique benefits. As technology continues to advance, control systems are becoming more sophisticated, offering smoother, more precise operation with greater ease of use.
When choosing a skid steer, operators should consider their comfort, the nature of the work, and the specific features they require. Regardless of the control system, however, proper training and regular maintenance are essential to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the machine.