Can a Standard Flow Skid Steer Run a Mulcher Attachment?

Standard Flow Skid Steer Run a Mulcher Attachment

When it comes to running a mulcher attachment, your skid steer must have a high flow hydraulic system and a high horsepower rating. This is required because a forestry mulcher can handle large limbs and requires a large amount of horsepower for the attachment. To run the attachment, you must have a skid steer with at least 90 horsepower. You can also install a cooling system to keep the hydraulic system from overheating. But this does not necessarily improve power.

While there are many advantages to using larger equipment, it is not always practical for every application. While bigger equipment provides greater productivity and operational cost, it is much more expensive and has a large physical footprint. For some applications, a compact track loader might be the best choice. These machines allow for greater range of motion and proximity to the work site.

When choosing a mulcher attachment, you should take several factors into consideration. For instance, the horsepower of the skid steer must match the capacity of the mulching head. The mulching head must be capable of moving at least 35 GPM, while a standard flow skid steer may have a capacity of only 40 GPM. The weight of the mulcher head also has a bearing on the skid steer’s stability, especially on steep terrain.

You should also look into the hydraulic horsepower of the skid steer and the mulching attachment. High flow machines should have an engine with at least 70 horsepower. The hydraulic horsepower of the skid steer is also an important factor, which will determine its performance. Hydraulic horsepower is calculated as flow x pressure / 1,714.

Disc mulchers are cheaper than drum mulchers. High flow disc mulchers with a 50-75 inch cutting width cost $22,000 to $29,000, while high flow drum mulchers range from $33,000 to $43,000. The pricing varies based on the manufacturer and the options. The V70 Tree Disc Mulcher is one example of a high-speed skid steer mulcher that can mulch trees up to eight inches in diameter and remove up to fourteen inches in diameter.

Can a Standard Flow Skid Steer Run a Mulcher Attachment?

In addition to mulching, some mulcher attachments have safety features. These features protect the operator and others working around the site. Chain guards and hydraulic doors deflect debris into the ground, while polycarbonate doors protect the operator from high-speed airborne debris.

Robert Walker, who runs a one-man land clearing team, uses a Fecon RK5015 Standard Flow Mulcher to clear forestry for homebuilders. This equipment allows him to take on larger projects, allowing him to handle thicker brush. Because it has a low-flow package, he can avoid downtime and keep his business moving.

Regardless of the type of mulching attachment you choose, your skid steer must match the hydraulic horsepower and torque requirements of the attachment. You should also consider the type of undercarriage. Some attachments have wheels while others are tracked. Choose the type that works best with the ground conditions and type of mulching. Many skid-steer manufacturers now offer forestry protection packages for mulching operations.

Another great option is the Diamond Mower Skid Steer Disc Mulcher. Its 48 or 60-inch cutting width allows you to easily mulch brush and trees up to 14 inches in diameter. While it doesn’t have as wide a cutting width as other models, it offers many other features.