The Pros And Cons Of Skid Steer Box Graders

When you need to spread aggregate on a driveway or pathway, or you need to smooth pasture land, it can be helpful to have the right tool for the job rather than trying to jimmy-rig nongrading specific equipment into something workable. Having the right tool can be more efficient and cost-effective when it comes to labor and materials. One popular choice for getting the job done is a box grader tool for skid steers. If you're considering making the purchase, here are a few of the pros and cons of these grading attachments.

PROS

Fleet Versatility

One of the greatest benefits of using skid steer box graders is the fleet versatility it allows. Rather than spending thousands on task-specific vehicles, attachments for skid steers make it possible to accomplish a wide variety of jobs with less up-front investment. The box grader, specifically, makes it easy to utilize a skid steer for smoothing gravel pathways, driveways, and pasture land when you need it. When you don't need it, it's simply a matter of removing the attachment.

Maneuverability

Another reason a skid steer box grader can be a major asset is because of its maneuverability. It allows for freedom of motion in both directions, for pulling the blade and smoothing in reverse, or for cutting and spreading while moving forward. This mobility helps increase productivity and efficiency while grading.

Durability

When you spend a sizable amount of money on a piece of heavy equipment, you want your investment to last. Box graders have a great track record of durability and that's a major advantage in their favor.

Grade Control Technology

Most box graders also come with grade control technologies that use advanced systems to control the level of grade for you so you don't have to do it manually, a process that can eat up a lot of labor. Three common technology systems for grade control include laser grading, sonic and slope, as well as 3D grading using GPS or total station.

CONS

Limited Utility

With a box grader, you'll only be doing one thing: grading. Unlike with a box scraper, for example, that allows for other uses. However, because it's a job-specific tool it's better suited to the task of grading than a scraper. And since it's an attachment, it allows for other skid steer uses. But if you're someone that wants all your tools to have multiple uses, it might not be for you. 

For more information about skid steer box graders, contact a local company. 

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