10-27-2025, 06:51 PM
Repurposing a Wrecker Boom for Versatile Lifting
In a creative example of fabrication ingenuity, a custom boom was built by repurposing a wrecker boom and adapting it for skid steer use. Originally designed for towing applications, the boom was modified to serve as a lifting attachment for trusses, beams, and other materials on construction sites. The builder refined the design over several years, eventually integrating a new valve body to improve operator access and control.
This kind of retrofit demonstrates how surplus or decommissioned equipment can be transformed into functional tools with minimal investment. The boom’s geometry was preserved, but mounting brackets and hydraulic connections were adapted to fit the skid steer’s quick-attach system and auxiliary hydraulics.
Hydraulic Integration and Control Improvements
The boom retained its hydraulic tilt function, allowing the operator to adjust the angle of lift. A new valve body was installed to improve ergonomics, placing controls within easier reach of the operator. This upgrade not only enhanced usability but also reduced the risk of misoperation during delicate lifts.
However, one concern raised by experienced operators is that hydraulic tilt cylinders can gradually drift under load if not actively pressurized. This means that unless the operator continuously actuates the tilt circuit, the boom may slowly settle, transferring the load to the safety chain. If the chain is the only thing holding the load, and it fails, the consequences could be severe.
Terminology Notes
The boom was equipped with chain attachment points, but some users expressed concern about the strength and placement of these anchors. Handles or grab points on the boom were used as chain tie-downs, which may not be rated for lifting loads. In several documented cases, similar handles have failed when used to extract stuck machines or lift heavy objects.
To mitigate risk:
Operators noted that such a boom would be especially useful for setting roof trusses, lifting HVAC units, or placing light poles. The ability to extend reach and maintain control from the cab makes it a valuable tool for small crews or solo operators.
One user shared a story of using a similar boom to lift a steel beam into place for a barn renovation. The boom’s tilt function allowed precise placement, eliminating the need for a second machine or crane. However, he emphasized the importance of checking hydraulic pressure and chain integrity before every lift.
Recommendations for Builders and Users
A shop-made boom can be a powerful addition to a skid steer’s toolkit when built with care and operated with caution. By repurposing existing components and integrating thoughtful hydraulic controls, operators can expand their machine’s capabilities while maintaining safety and efficiency. As with all custom equipment, rigorous inspection and conservative load handling are essential to long-term success.
In a creative example of fabrication ingenuity, a custom boom was built by repurposing a wrecker boom and adapting it for skid steer use. Originally designed for towing applications, the boom was modified to serve as a lifting attachment for trusses, beams, and other materials on construction sites. The builder refined the design over several years, eventually integrating a new valve body to improve operator access and control.
This kind of retrofit demonstrates how surplus or decommissioned equipment can be transformed into functional tools with minimal investment. The boom’s geometry was preserved, but mounting brackets and hydraulic connections were adapted to fit the skid steer’s quick-attach system and auxiliary hydraulics.
Hydraulic Integration and Control Improvements
The boom retained its hydraulic tilt function, allowing the operator to adjust the angle of lift. A new valve body was installed to improve ergonomics, placing controls within easier reach of the operator. This upgrade not only enhanced usability but also reduced the risk of misoperation during delicate lifts.
However, one concern raised by experienced operators is that hydraulic tilt cylinders can gradually drift under load if not actively pressurized. This means that unless the operator continuously actuates the tilt circuit, the boom may slowly settle, transferring the load to the safety chain. If the chain is the only thing holding the load, and it fails, the consequences could be severe.
Terminology Notes
- Quick-Attach System: A standardized mounting interface that allows fast swapping of attachments on skid steers or loaders.
- Hydraulic Tilt Cylinder: A hydraulic actuator that adjusts the angle of an attachment relative to the carrier.
- Valve Body: A hydraulic control unit that directs fluid to specific actuators based on operator input.
- Kickout: A mechanical or hydraulic feature that returns a control lever to neutral or limits movement to a preset range.
The boom was equipped with chain attachment points, but some users expressed concern about the strength and placement of these anchors. Handles or grab points on the boom were used as chain tie-downs, which may not be rated for lifting loads. In several documented cases, similar handles have failed when used to extract stuck machines or lift heavy objects.
To mitigate risk:
- Use certified lifting eyes or weld-on hooks rated for the intended load
- Avoid relying on handholds or cosmetic brackets for structural anchoring
- Install nylon sleeves or covers over chains to reduce lashback in case of failure
- Incorporate a mechanical lockout to prevent tilt cylinder drift under load
Operators noted that such a boom would be especially useful for setting roof trusses, lifting HVAC units, or placing light poles. The ability to extend reach and maintain control from the cab makes it a valuable tool for small crews or solo operators.
One user shared a story of using a similar boom to lift a steel beam into place for a barn renovation. The boom’s tilt function allowed precise placement, eliminating the need for a second machine or crane. However, he emphasized the importance of checking hydraulic pressure and chain integrity before every lift.
Recommendations for Builders and Users
- Design with redundancy—use both hydraulic and mechanical support for suspended loads
- Test the boom under controlled conditions before field deployment
- Label all anchor points with rated capacities
- Incorporate pressure relief valves to prevent overloading the tilt circuit
- Document the build process for future inspection or resale
A shop-made boom can be a powerful addition to a skid steer’s toolkit when built with care and operated with caution. By repurposing existing components and integrating thoughtful hydraulic controls, operators can expand their machine’s capabilities while maintaining safety and efficiency. As with all custom equipment, rigorous inspection and conservative load handling are essential to long-term success.
