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Category: Skid Steers

Rework Nature With These Top Landscaping Attachments for Skid Steers and Track Loaders

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The array of attachments available for skid steers and track loaders make them good tools for landscapers. The benefits for the landscaper make it easy to see why they are so prevalent in the landscape business. There’s a wide attachment selection, and a broad range of tasks can be performed easily just by changing between attachments. They are also compact enough to operate in smaller spaces, and they move from jobsite to jobsite fairly quickly.

If you google “when was the skid steer invented?” various sources will tell you that the first skid steer prototype was an odd-looking three-wheeled loader. If you dig deeper, you will learn that the first skid steer was invented in 1957 by brothers Louis and Cyril Keller in Rothsay, Minn. The brothers were the owners of Keller Mfg., a small fabricating and general repair business. Their main business was a single-stage snowblower, but in 1956 a local turkey farmer approached the brothers to build a machine to clean out turkey barns. Tractors of the day were not maneuverable enough and were too heavy for the second story. By 1957, the first skid steer was being tested and it exceeded expectations.
Today, skid steers and their track loader counterparts still have a place on the farm but have moved into the city too. You are just as likely to see skid steers and track loaders in construction, material handling or landscaping applications. Attachments have grown beyond buckets too. Farmers will use bale grabbers to move and stack hay or manure grapples for clearing stalls in a barn. Construction-minded users know the power that can be unleashed in a hammer for breaking concrete. Once crushed, the concrete and debris can be moved with a scrap grapple bucket. Heavy-duty brush cutters can tackle trees to aid in land clearing for utilities or reclamation projects. Trenching, snow removal and site leveling are a few more of the many tasks that skid steer and track loader attachments will help you get done.

The array of attachments available for skid steers and track loaders make them good tools for landscapers. The benefits for the landscaper make it easy to see why they are so prevalent in the landscape business. There’s a wide attachment selection, and a broad range of tasks can be performed easily just by changing between attachments. They are also compact enough to operate in smaller spaces, and they move from jobsite to jobsite fairly quickly. Tools in a landscaper’s arsenal can range from seeders and trenchers to powered rakes and tillers, all from one power unit. Skid steers can even use smart attachments for precision site leveling on sports fields or in areas where a precise grade is a must. Let’s take a closer look at some of these landscape attachments.  

Trenchers

Skid steer- or track loader-mounted trenchers have uses across various industries. From installing buried fiber-optic cables for a new development to installing an irrigation system at a sports complex, trenchers efficiently slice a narrow trench in the soil, leaving the spoil next to the trench for efficient backfill. Trenchers use a variety of chains depending on the soil type — rock, sand, clay or loam — and it is important to match the chain to the digging conditions. Widths can vary too, depending on the application, from a modest width of 4 to 12 in.
Trenchers use a variety of chain
  Landscapers should look for a quality trencher because it will take some abuse. With a stinger buried 5 ft in the ground, there are many unseen obstacles that are likely to be encountered. Features like sealed bearings, reversible motor, hardened chain teeth and even a depth indicator are features of a quality machine. The bearings on the chain drive system spend a lot of time in hostile environments. Sealed bearings protect against dirt that will limit their lifespan. A reversible drive motor can help the user get out of a tight spot in rock or compacted soil. Hardened teeth extend the chain life to keep landscapers in the field, being productive with billable work.  

Tillers

Garden tillers have been around since the 1930s. The skid steer/track loader tiller expands on the concept. Skid tillers are usually as wide as or slightly wider than the unit. Some can be manually or hydraulically offset to work closer to buildings or fences. With forward or reverse tines on one machine, the operator can go both directions while preparing the seedbed, which increases efficiency and speeds seedbed preparation. By using the curl feature on the skid steer, operators can control depth, a task that is made easier if the tiller has a depth indicator. Some brands of tiller also feature ripper shanks to rip through hard, sun-baked or compacted soils. A tiller is a must for any landscaper.  

Powered Rakes

No landscape contractor should be without a powered rake. This multi-functional seedbed and soil surface preparation tool is capable of eliminating compaction and then grading, leveling, shaping and pulverizing various types of soil surfaces to create a near perfect seedbed. If rocks are a problem, a skid-mounted powered rake is also ideal for raking or windrowing rocks and construction site debris. Powered rakes need to be wider than the skid steer so that when angled, they cover the tracks. The roller typically features carbide-tipped studs for long wear life. A powered rake can be angled for wind-rowing or more aggressive pulverizing and most feature gauge wheels. Quality units are bi-directional and have variable speed.

Seeders

After employing a tiller and powered rake to prep the seedbed, landscapers need a quality seeding tool to finish the job. Fortunately, the long list of available skid steer/track loader attachments for landscaping includes a seeder. Most quality models come with large capacity seed boxes with an agitator to keep the seed from bridging and the ability to travel both forward and backward. A skid seeder needs to accurately broadcast the proper amount of seed and then gently press the seed into the soil. For accuracy, most seeders utilize a ground drive system that keeps the whole process running smoothly.

Smart Box Blades

  Smart box blades utilize laser technology and allow landscape contractors the option of rough or precision grading with one tool. In their base configuration, these blades allow for basic grading work to be done in applications requiring a simple rough grade, such as landscaping and initial surface prep. Precision grading can be accomplished with the addition of a 2D or 3D laser system to accurately control site preparation. Flat work, like athletic fields or foundations, are completed efficiently and accurately with in-cab controls. The controls utilize a laser or lasers and receivers that communicate to a manifold that automatically lifts and tilts the blade for a precise finish. Smart tools are not for every landscaper, but the technology behind them is becoming more affordable. Quality 2D or 3D systems are available from a number of suppliers. Features of a quality blade will include the ability to grade forward and backward with a hinged cutting edge for accuracy, a floating front axle to help keep the blade level and, of course, the ability to accept a third party 2D or 3D attachment control system.  
  Skid steer and track loader attachments for the landscape industry are too numerous to mention all in full detail. Other, more common attachments include buckets of all shapes and sizes, blades for snow removal or dirt work, augers for building a fence or planting a tree, graders and land planes for leveling sites and refurbishing driveways, rippers to break up and loosen tightly packed soil and grapples in as many varieties as a landscaper can imagine. In fact, when one stands back and assesses the attachment landscape, there is almost a tool for every landscaping need. If there’s not, one will be introduced soon. If we can help you with any of your compact track loader or skid steer attachments, reach out to either of our locations and we'll be happy to talk through the work you want to accomplish and the best attachment options to meet your needs.
To learn more about or Paladin construction attachments, click here.
To learn more about Kubota's compact track loaders, click here.
To learn more about Kubota's skid steers, click here.
Townline Equipment is the leading Kubota dealer with locations in Plainfield, New Hampshire, and Pittsford, Vermont. We sell and service a large variety of equipment including Kubota tractors, Kubota utility vehicles, Kubota zero turn mowers and Kubota construction equipment.  If we can be of service, contact us today in Plainfield, New Hampshire at  603-675-6347, or  Pittsford, Vermont at 802-483-6464. You can also email us at info@townlineequipment.  The videos and articles on our blog are meant to be a general guide only, so please always consult your owner’s manual for additional detailed product information and related safety precautions. For more information, please visit www./disclaimer .

Road Building with a Kubota KX080 Excavator and SVL75 Compact Track Loader

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In this video, we show aerial footage of a Kubota KX080-4 excavator and Kubota SVL75 compact track loader carving out a dirt road from a hillside. The KX080 is Kubota's largest compact excavator weighing in at almost 20,000 pounds and having an overall reach of 23 feet. The KX080 is great for job sites that require a powerful machine, but need the flexibility of a minimum tail swing under carriage.

The Kubota kX080 can be configured with steel or rubber tracks and with a number of additional options including dual auxiliary hydraulics for running different implements. The Kubota SVL75 compact track loader also offers tremendous power while preserving a tight footprint for maximum job site space flexibility. The SVL75 in this video is a 75 horsepower, 10,000 pound machine and is the second largest compact track loader that Kubota makes. For bigger construction jobs, Kubota offers the SVL95 compact track loader and for smaller jobs like nursery and landscape work, the SVL65 is a good option.
Townline Equipment is the leading Kubota dealer with locations in Plainfield, New Hampshire, and Pittsford, Vermont. We sell and service a large variety of equipment including Kubota tractors, Kubota utility vehicles, Kubota zero turn mowers and Kubota construction equipment.  If we can be of service, contact us today in Plainfield, New Hampshire at  603-675-6347, or  Pittsford, Vermont at 802-483-6464. You can also email us at info@townlineequipment.  The videos and articles on our blog are meant to be a general guide only, so please always consult your owner’s manual for additional detailed product information and related safety precautions. For more information, please visit www./disclaimer .

Townline Mobile Onsite Tractor and Construction Equipment Service

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From our house to your house, our service department has always been flexible at taking care of your needs. We have four mobile technicians servicing your local communities daily. These trucks can perform mobile onsite tractor and construction equipment service, repair, diagnostic work, and preventative maintenance at your property or on your worksite. Read more to see the video of our service team in action.

In this video, we show you some of our mobile service capabilities including the service of a Kubota B3030 tractor from start to finish and the delivery of a Kubota BX23s tractor. If you are in need of mobile onsite service, please call or text our Plainfield NH location at 603-675-6347 or our Pittsford Vermont Location at 802-483-6464. You can also email us at service@townlineequipment.com. To learn more about our complete offering of service, maintenance and equipment repair options, visit our service page here.
   
Townline Equipment is the leading Kubota dealer in Plainfield NH and Pittsford VT. We sell and service a large variety of equipment including Kubota tractors, Kubota utility vehicles, Kubota zero turn mowers and Kubota construction equipment.  Contact Us Today: Plainfield NH - 603-675-6347 / Pittsford VT – 802-483-6464 / Email: info@townlineequipment. Videos and articles on our blog are meant to be a general guide only. Always consult your owner’s manual for additional detailed product information and related safety precautions. Visit www./disclaimer for more information.  

Tips for Starting Kubota Tractors and Kubota Construction Equipment in the Winter

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Winter in New England certainly puts extra strain on our equipment with long stretches of cold weather. During the cold winter months, equipment has to work harder: Engines take longer to warm up, starting can be a challenge, and moisture in fluids can lead to mechanical failures. With all of these potential issues popping up during the winter months, here are some tips to keep your equipment starting smoothly when it’s cold.

Keep Up with Your Preventative Maintenance Schedule
The first step in making sure your Kubota equipment is ready to work when you are is to consistently perform your preventative maintenance on schedule and perform your walk around checks. You can adhere to a long list of best practices for starting your equipment in the winter, but if you’re not changing fluids and filters, greasing, and taking care of routine service items at the recommended intervals, you have a much greater chance of running into starting and performance issues during the winter months.
Keep Your Battery Charged
Since it will take extra time to turn over a motor in the cold winter months, make sure you have a healthy battery. Check to make sure your battery is fully charged in addition to charging while the tractor is running. If this is not something you can do on your own, we are always here for assistance in charging or replacing batteries
 
Use a Block Heater
The main purpose of an engine block heater is to make it easier to start the engine, but preheating the engine oil, antifreeze, and internal engine components also reduces wear and tear. Plugging your tractor or construction equipment in will allow the block heater to create the heat necessary for combustion to start the equipment. Leave the tractor plugged in for at least 4 to 5 hours before you try to start it. It will take this long to heat coolant in the engine block. At Townline, we sell almost every new tractor and piece of construction equipment with a free engine block heater.
Equipment Storage Options
If you are able to keep your Kubota tractor in a warm, dry place during the winter, it should be a pretty easy process to start and run during cold weather. However, many Kubota tractors do live outside their whole life. For tractors and construction equipment that is stored outside, it is important to use your block heater to assist in starting along with glow plugs if equipped. You can also use tarps, a small shed or an outside overhang to help keep your equipment out of the weather and make the starting process easier.
Use Good Winter Diesel Fuel and Keep Your Fuel Tank Full
The type of diesel fuel you use in your Kubota machine can have a direct effect on how well the engine will start and run. It is important to make sure to have winter blend off road diesel. This fuel lacks certain components that corrupt fuel over time. Putting anti-gelling diesel fuel additives into your fuel can also help regardless of whether or not you’re using off road diesel. These additives can prevent gelling, icing, disperse moisture, and help with cold starts in general.
Idle the Engine Before Working with Your Equipment
After you have started your tractor, let it idle to warm up. This allows the heat from the engine to move into the transmission, transfer case and gear drive of the tractor. It is important to make sure that the oil is warm and viscous enough so it can travel around the tractor’s lines. Usually if your tractor can warm up to a normal operating temperature, you will be able to work all day without any surprises.
Reach out to Townline if You Need Help
Taking these steps will help you make sure your Kubota equipment will be ready to start and work when you need it this winter. However, Mother Nature does specialize in creating new surprises for us each year, so if you find yourself with a tractor issue that you can't figure out or that you need help with, contact our service team. We have a fleet of Mobile Onsite service trucks that can come right to your home or place of business and get you up and running during the winter season.
Townline Equipment is the leading Kubota dealer in Plainfield NH and Pittsford VT. We sell and service a large variety of equipment including Kubota tractors, Kubota utility vehicles, Kubota zero turn mowers and Kubota construction equipment.  Contact Us Today: Plainfield NH - 603-675-6347 / Pittsford VT – 802-483-6464 / Email: info@townlineequipment. Videos and articles on our blog are meant to be a general guide only. Always consult your owner’s manual for additional detailed product information and related safety precautions. Visit www./disclaimer for more information.

Managing and Preventing Diesel Fuel Gelling in Your Kubota During the Winter

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New England’s winter season can make owning equipment quite frustrating if preventative measures are not taken to help your equipment get through the cold weather.  These winter issues typically start to pop up during the months of December and January when our temperatures consistently drop below 30 degrees. In these conditions, fuel will start to gel if it is not properly conditioned and maintained.

How Does Diesel Fuel Gel?
Diesel fuel has the ability to solidify due to cold temperatures. The colder the surrounding air temperature is, the less viscous the fuel will become making it hard to pass through fuel lines and filters. The temperature at which this occurs varies based on the amount of water in your diesel fuel. Usually the fuel begins to gel in the fuel filter and is typically the first place to check for gelling.
What Are Some of the Symptoms of Diesel Fuel Gelling?
The first symptom you will find is your Kubota tractor will start briefly, but die relatively quickly after starting and will not re-start. The reason for this is the tractor has used up the available fuel to the injectors and no new fuel can pass through the system. Another scenario would be while operating your Kubota tractor it will start to lose power and eventually cut out. This happens when non treated fuel is poured into the tank and finally makes it into the fuel system. It is important to confirm that the fuel you use during cold winters is conditioned before using it in your equipment.
How Do You Treat Diesel Fuel Gelling?
The only real treatment for gelling is warming up the fuel in your Kubota tractor’s system. There are a few ways to do this based on how quickly you need to use your tractor.
  • The fastest treatment is to drain your fuel filter then fill it with room temperature fuel
  • You can also warm the fuel that is already in your filter
  • You can take the filter off and take it inside to thaw out
  • You can put heat on the tractor itself if you can get to a heated garage or near a space heater
How Can You Prevent Diesel Fuel Gelling in the First Place?
There are many additives that you can use to treat your diesel fuel to prevent gelling. We supply these at both of our store locations and also use them in all of our equipment from August on. Storing equipment inside a heated facility is not an option for everyone, but it will prevent gelling if you have the option. For Kubota equipment stored outside, using conditioned winter fuel is the best option for preventing gelled fuel issues. Block heaters, tank heaters, and filter heaters are also preventative measures that can be taken to help assist your equipment through cold winters. Additionally, we recommend only using a winter blend off road diesel fuel during the winter months and to keep your tank full of treated diesel fuel to try and minimize the amount of moisture created in the diesel tank.
Reach out to Townline if you need help
If you have more questions on winter diesel fuel treatment, give our parts department a call and we can walk you through our diesel fuel treatment options. Additionally, if you find your Kubota equipment gelled up this winter and can’t get it going or don’t have the time to get it going, give our service department a call. We have a fleet of Mobile Onsite service trucks that can come right to your home or place of business and get you up and running during the cold winter months.
Townline Equipment is the leading Kubota dealer in Plainfield NH and Pittsford VT. We sell and service a large variety of equipment including Kubota tractors, Kubota utility vehicles, Kubota zero turn mowers and Kubota construction equipment.  Contact Us Today: Plainfield NH - 603-675-6347 / Pittsford VT – 802-483-6464 / Email: info@townlineequipment. Videos and articles on our blog are meant to be a general guide only. Always consult your owner’s manual for additional detailed product information and related safety precautions. Visit www./disclaimer for more information.

Kubota KX057 Excavator Paired With an Okada Hydraulic Breaker

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We have been working with Kubota’s KX series compact excavators for over a decade. Over that time, we developed a strong understanding of these machines and their attachment capabilities across a wide range of applications. After many happy customers, one attachment manufacturer we are confident in supplying and supporting is Okada and their family of hydraulic breakers.

Townline commonly stocks Okada ORV series hydraulic breakers that we can fit to our KX057 compact excavator. We can also quickly change the cover plate to fit any size SVL compact track loader or SSV wheeled skid steer. The ORV series hydraulic breakers range in size from 150lbs of force up to 12,500lbs. These Hydraulic breakers require minimal set up, making them a quick attachment to add into the available library of implements contractors own.
The most common application for these breakers is demolition of concrete structures. They also have the ability to break up hard winter frost and can be lightly used to peck away at some ledge. Certainly, it is important to size the right head for the intended work and with the large family of breakers available it is easy to do so. For more information on the Okada family or Kubota’s KX line of compact excavators please reach out to our sales department in Plainfield NH at 603-675-6347 or in Pittsford VT at 802-483-6464.
Townline Equipment is the leading Kubota dealer in Plainfield NH and Pittsford VT. We sell and service a large variety of equipment and Kubota's full line of Kubota compact construction equipment including Kubota excavators, compact track loaders, skid steers and wheel loaders. We also sell and service FAE mulching heads.  Contact Us Today: Plainfield NH - 603-675-6347 / Pittsford VT – 802-483-6464 / Email: info@townlineequipment. Videos and articles on our blog are meant to be a general guide only. Always consult your owner’s manual for additional detailed product information and related safety precautions. Visit www./disclaimer for more information.