Compact track loaders: skid-steer versatility on rubber tracks

A compact track loader (CTL) is essentially a skid steer on rubber tracks. It uses the same lift arms, quick-attach plate and attachments, but the tracks spread the machine's weight over a much larger area. The result is better traction and flotation, lower ground disturbance and a smoother ride. In North America, CTLs now outsell wheeled skid steers.

Why choose a CTL?

• Low ground pressure, often 3–5 psi (20–35 kPa), compared with 30+ psi on tyres.
• Traction on mud, sand, snow and slopes, meaning more working days per year.
• Better grading: tracks bridge bumps, so the bucket stays level.
• Higher pushing power thanks to more traction.

Trade-offs

CTLs cost more to buy, and rubber tracks and undercarriage parts are expensive to replace. On concrete and asphalt, tracks wear quickly and wheeled skid steers are often more economical.

Rated operating capacity

For tracked loaders, ROC is calculated at 35% of tipping load (ISO 14397), compared with 50% for wheeled machines. So a CTL and a skid steer with the same ROC figure are not directly comparable.

Undercarriage designs

• Rigid undercarriages are simpler and cheaper.
• Suspended or torsion-axle undercarriages ride more smoothly and help retain material in the bucket.
• Steel-embedded rubber tracks are standard; some machines can run steel tracks for demolition.

Track tension, cleaning out packed debris and avoiding sharp turns on abrasive surfaces all extend track life.

Sizes

CTLs range from about 600 kg (1,300 lb) ROC on small machines to over 2,000 kg (4,500 lb) on the largest. The most popular range is 900–1,400 kg (2,000–3,100 lb) ROC with 70–100 hp engines.