We Discuss Stone Crusher Attachments with FAE’s Giorgio Carera

A stone crusher attachment is a great solution for worksites that are plagued with rocks. This powerful tool can be paired with your skid steer or compact track loader and is ideal for processing stones that may be a nuisance to your project. We recently chatted with Giorgio Carera, CEO of FAE USA, about these attachments and the company’s lineup. Read on to see what he had to say.

Compact Equipment: Why would someone want to add a stone crusher attachment on their skid steer or CTL? Who can benefit from this machine-attachment pairing?

Carera: Stone crusher attachments significantly expand the capabilities of a skid steer or compact track loader by enabling operators to process material directly on-site. These machines are highly versatile and can be used across multiple applications, including agriculture, road construction and landscaping.

In agriculture, they allow operators to crush rocks in fields, making land usable again for planting and seeding. In road construction, they are effective for processing gravel roads and for crushing loose or broken-up asphalt and concrete so the material can be reused. Landscaping professionals also benefit from their ability to prepare and reclaim land efficiently.

This versatility allows contractors to diversify their services and remain productive year-round. When conditions limit one type of work, operators can shift to another, improving utilization and overall profitability.

CE: What features and considerations are important when looking to purchase a stone crusher?

Carera: The most important consideration is compatibility with the carrier machine. Hydraulic flow, pressure and horsepower must align with the attachment’s requirements.

Equally important is a clear understanding of the intended application. Selecting the right attachment and the right configuration for the job ensures optimal performance and profitability. Matching machine capacity to the correct application is critical — when properly aligned, operators can achieve maximum productivity and efficiency.

CE: Does the skid steer or CTL need any other accessories to accommodate a stone crusher?

Carera: Other than an enclosed cab with safety glass, no additional accessories are required to operate FAE stone crushers. The machines are engineered to work efficiently within the carrier’s capabilities without causing overheating or performance issues.

For operators working in demanding environments, an optional FAE roof-mounted oil cooler could be beneficial, though it is not mandatory.

CE: Do skid steer/CTL operators typically own or rent stone crusher attachments? How much do these attachments typically cost?

Carera: Most operators choose to own these attachments rather than rent them. Due to their versatility and ability to support multiple applications, they are often utilized consistently throughout the year, making ownership a practical investment.

Typical pricing for a high quality and highly productive stone crusher attachments generally falls within the range of $65,000 to $70,000, depending on the model and configuration.

CE: What safety and operational advice would you offer to someone using a stone crusher attachment? What type of PPE is needed?

Carera: Safe operation is critical when using a stone crusher attachment. Operators should:

• Keep the attachment level at or slightly below grade during operation.
• Maintain a safe working distance from people, vehicles, and structures
• Never exit the machine while the rotor is in motion

Because material can be ejected during operation, proper protection is essential. Recommended PPE and safety measures include:

• Protective machine guarding or a demo shield
• Standard operator PPE such as a hard hat, eye protection, hearing protection and high-visibility clothing

Following manufacturer guidelines is key to safe and effective operation.

CE: Can you describe a maintenance regimen for this type of machine-attachment combo?

Carera: Maintenance is straightforward but essential for performance and longevity:

• Grease the machine and bearings daily (approximately every 8 hours)
• Inspect hydraulic hoses and connections daily
• Check the condition of carbide teeth and replace as needed
• Perform a routine visual inspection to ensure all components are secure and function properly

Consistent daily checks help prevent downtime and maintain productivity.

CE: Can you tell us about FAE’s stone crusher lineup?

Carera: FAE has been the leader in rock crushing technology since 1989, beginning with PTO-driven units. Recognizing a gap in the market, FAE introduced hydraulic stone crushers for skid steers and compact track loaders over 20 years ago, becoming a pioneer in this segment.

Designed as heavy-duty, high-capacity attachments, FAE stone crushers are built for demanding applications such as land reclamation, road construction and site preparation. Their robust design and proven performance have required only incremental updates over time, reflecting the strength of the original engineering.

FAE’s approach emphasizes extensive research, rigorous testing, and real-world application feedback. This commitment ensures reliable performance, high productivity and long-term durability, making FAE a trusted choice for professionals worldwide.