Among the most versatile pieces of equipment when working a farm or managing a significant plot of land, the skid steer is a smaller, lightweight vehicle that also projects power in any number of heavy-duty tasks. With attachments as varied as a snow plow, bucket, and pallet forks, the skid steer is the go-to tool for a wide range of ambitious outdoor jobs. One such chore is preparing land by clearing away brush and undergrowth. Accordingly, proper use of the brush cutter attachment is essential. Here are four helpful guidelines when you need to employ a brush cutter attachment for any reason.
1- Make the Right Selection
By design, attachments are not all created equal. If your aim is simply to tame some overgrown pasture, there are “closed front” cutter attachments that are rectangular and shut off on all four sides. The front side, though, is usually closed off by a chain curtain as opposed to the welded steel of the other sides. The “open front” brush cutter attachment, by contrast, is true to its name while the chain curtain sits at the backside. This feature helps the implement to more vigorously attack heavier, thicker, and more compressed vegetation, including trees. The number of blades (three versus four) also makes a difference.
2- Consider the Preliminaries
As with any other job, the skid steer operator should survey the land first. There may be hard-to-see objects that could wreak havoc on the cutter’s blades if they make contact. Speaking of blades (or teeth, in the case of mulchers), they require examination before each job; they may have suffered damage during a prior outing and need repair. That goes for blade holders and skid shoes too. In addition, pay attention to the hydraulic flow — and know the correct flow rate — in order to ensure the blades or teeth can run at optimal speed.
4- Study the Connection
Attachments are for attaching and the best way to connect the brush cutter attachment is on a flat and level surface. Moving the skid steer so that the quick attach plate of the loader lines up with the lugs on the attachment is the first step. From there, the operator should angle the plate forward so that it fastens to and locks the brush cutter attachment. Subsequently, the brush cutter attachment’s hydraulic hoses must be affixed to the couplers on the skid steer. Once fully hooked up, the brush cutter attachment is best utilized on easier terrain before tougher topography.
4- Perform Regular Maintenance
It is tempting after a long, hard day of cutting and clearing to put the equipment away and move on to other things. However, the cutter attachment also had a long day and may need some care. This can come immediately or later. Still, inspecting the attachment and its components after a job keeps the needs fresh in the mind. At any rate, greasing the equipment, changing the oil, and replacing worn parts are necessary for longevity. Contact your service provider when necessary. They can