A Deep Dive into Manitou’s All-New Large-Frame Skid Steers and Compact Track Loaders

The Rise of the Super Skid Steer and CTL Continues with Five Big New Models

The 100+ hp compact loader class continues to grow. Skid steers and compact track loaders started small, but contractors have steadily demanded more power, more lift and more hydraulic muscle. Today, the largest loaders rival small dozers, wheel loaders and telehandlers while keeping their compact DNA. Brands from Caterpillar and JCB to Takeuchi and Case have launched models in the extra-large loader class over the last few years. A couple of weeks ago, Manitou threw its hat into the ring, announcing all-new large-frame models that push deeper into this high-horsepower class.

“We are going head-to-head with the largest most powerful machines in the industry.” explained Nathan Ryan, global product manager of skid steers and CTLs at Manitou, speaking during a press and dealer webinar dubbed “The Arrival.” “We’re launching five new models — three skid steers and two track loaders — ranging in operating capacity from 3,250 lbs up to 3,600 lbs.”

Manitou’s Large Loader Lineup Specs

Manitou launched three new skid steers and two compact track loaders, all built on a fresh large-frame platform. Let’s take a quick look at their specs:

• 3250V skid steer — 72 hp, 3,250-lb rated operating capacity
• 3350V skid steer — 100 hp, 3,350-lb rated operating capacity
• 3600V skid steer — 114 hp, 3,600-lb rated operating capacity
• 3350VT CTL — 100 hp, 3,350-lb rated operating capacity
• 3600VT CTL — 114 hp, 3,600-lb rated operating capacity

Shared Strength Across the Line

All five models carry serious breakout force numbers:

• Bucket breakout force: 10,624 lbs
• Lift arm breakout force: just over 7,000 lbs

Hydraulic power is also uniform across the platform:

• Standard flow: up to 25 gpm at 3,450 psi
• High flow: 40 gpm at 3,325–3,450 psi
• Hydraulic horsepower: 50.3 hp standard, 82 hp with boost

Designed for Serious Work

These loaders are vertical-lift machines, optimized for loading trucks and placing palletized materials. Optional counterweights push rated operating capacity up to 3,800 lbs while doubling as rear guarding. Hinge pin height tops out at 136 in. for all units, giving operators reach into high-sided trucks. Manitou integrated load-sensing hydraulics across the lineup. The system meters flow to match demand, improving efficiency and saving fuel. Variable rate flow is standard, allowing operators to dial in attachment performance. With high-flow numbers and hydraulic horsepower to spare, these machines are built to run cold planers, mulchers, heavy brush cutters and snow pushes.

“If you look at our hydraulic horsepower, so both flow and pressure on both standard flow and high flow, we exceed most of the competition in these size classes and we beat many of them in terms of actual pump flow, so gallons per minute,” said Ryan. “This all helps power those attachments that demand high performance. We know it’s equally important to harness that hydraulic power from both an attachment performance perspective and from a fuel efficiency standpoint. We’ve added the ability to variably control the amount of flow going to the attachment. This helps the attachment work to its optimal performance and makes the machine only work as hard as it needs to, which saves you fuel. It’s also worth noting we’ve built in an adjustable creep mode with a boost pedal. This is for attachments such as cold planers and brooms where matching ground speed to the desired performance is important. Then you’re not limited solely to the speed of the attachment as directed by the engine rpm.” 

New Lift Arms and Undercarriage

Manitou rethought the lift arms for these machines. It’s a cool engineering idea we saw on the first models launched in the newer V-Series skid steers and VT-Series compact track loaders a couple of years ago. Take a look at this image to see the sloping boom arms designs.

“Arguably, the most distinctive design element to these machines is also the simplest and with the clearest benefit,” explained Tyler Handel, director of R&D at Manitou. “These innovative patent pending lift arms are designed to slope away from the machine where the operator sits. This reduces the amount of material that can get stuck on the lift arm and most importantly, it improves the visibility both above and below the lift arm.”

Hydraulic lines route inside or under the arms for better protection. Tracked models also benefit from a redesigned undercarriage. Forged hardened sprockets, dual-flange idlers and triple-flange rollers all aim to reduce vibration, extend service life and prevent detracking. Comfort ride control (boom suspension) is now standard and incorporated into the design, which reduces spillage and improves operator comfort. The new compact track loaders also integrate Manitou’s exclusive IdealTrax automatic track tensioning feature, but now it’s controlled from the in-cab display.

“We all know from larger equipment like bulldozers in the industry that the undercarriage is the critical component on these track machines,” said Handel. “This is where we spent a lot of cost and added value. If the undercarriage is not robust and reliable, then the machine is not robust and reliable. So, we really put effort into upgrading and enhancing the undercarriage on this new platform to ensure these machines can hold up in the toughest conditions.” 

Cabs Focus on Technology, Comfort and Safety 

Inside the cab, Manitou standardized more premium features for this latest launch. Expect pilot joysticks that move with the seat, adjustable workstations and multiple seat options. A foot pedal throttle and decel, dome lighting, 12V and USB charging ports and removable floor mats with drains are all standard. The cab is spacious with improved sightlines. The roof slopes forward with a large skylight for better visibility while dumping. An optional Level 2 FOPS package protects operators and doubles as a protective light mounting bracket. LED lighting all around improves night work, with options for road lights, side lights and beacon packages. Each new loader is also equipped with a unique IdealAccess foldable door.

“Our IdealAccess door is a folding style door that eliminates the clearance required for a traditional swingout door,” said Handel. “When an operator is utilizing certain attachments or carrying a load that doesn’t allow the lift arm to go all the way down, the foldable ideal access door allows the operator to open and close the door without coming into contact with the lift arm structure, the coupler or the attachment. And unlike competitive single piece rollup doors, the operator maintains their full headroom as the door stores in front of the operator.”  

The new 7-in. color display is the machine’s hub. It handles diagnostics, service intervals and customizable settings. A backlit keypad adds keyless start, creep mode control and auxiliary engagement with a jog dial. Smart throttle always starts the engine at low idle, improving safety and fuel use. The cabs are large and spacious overall with adjustable workstations that allow each operator to adjust their cab to their preference. Manitou is also sticking with pilot control joysticks (vs EH controls), which operators love for the feel and controllability. 

“Each of these machines feature patented pilot controls that are mounted to the seat assembly to provide ergonomic access to the controls no matter where you sit in the cab,” said Handel. “A lot of these creature comforts may otherwise be considered bells and whistles, but we felt these were critical to these machines. That includes a smart throttle that controls the acceleration of the hand throttle. It also takes into effect critical factors such as cold weather to delay helping the machine during a cold startup and protect the hydraulic system. We’ve also added a unique drain at the bottom of the foot area. You’ll see it provides easy clean out of the dirtiest part of the cab. You’ll find Bluetooth radio in these machines, a lot of storage space, cup holders for your coffee or cold energy drink and USB charging ports for your cell phone. A lot of the comforts you see in pickup trucks today, we’ve added into this new lineup of skid steers and CTLs.”  

Connectivity is also baked in. These units come with Manitou’s telematics service with access via the myManitou app and fleet control through EasyManager. Owners can track fuel, hours, geofences and service needs remotely.

Serviceability and Transportation

Manitou designed these new large-frame loaders with ownership costs in mind. A tilt-up cooler improves rear visibility and gives clear access to the engine compartment. The fan can reverse on schedule or on-demand to blow out debris. Daily service points are grouped for easier checks. The cab tilts up for full access. Underneath, removable panels give mechanics another way in. The company’s goal: higher uptime, longer component life and fewer unexpected breakdowns.

“We really focused on transportability and daily maintenance,” noted Ryan. “With these machines we’ve increased the tie-downs, the number of them and the sizes of them to make it easier to get the machine on and off your trailer for working multiple jobsites. And then from the daily maintenance aspect, you can look at some of the features like our very open engine compartment to check everything. Even if a customer’s not that familiar with the piece of equipment, he doesn’t have to spend time looking for grease zerks along the machine. You can simply walk around the edge of the machine, and they’re very visible, very accessible. So those customers are performing the required daily maintenance to keep that machine up and running.”

Where These Loaders Fit in Manitou’s Line

These five new machines sit at the top of Manitou’s skid steer and CTL ranges. In 2023, Manitou added CTL models like the 2100VT, 2300VT and 2750VT to its mid-frame line. The rental-focused 1950RT CTL was announced in 2024. Those machines deliver operating capacities between 1,950 and 2,750 lbs. On the skid steer side, Manitou sells compact models like the 1050R and 1350R, mid-range vertical lifts like the 2300V and now large-frame machines topping 114 hp. With the arrival of the 3250V, 3350V, 3600V, 3350VT and 3600VT, Manitou now covers the full span from entry-level to super-size. Customers can choose between radial or vertical lift designs, wheels or tracks, small frames for landscaping or large frames for heavy site prep. Every model is built in Madison, South Dakota, continuing more than 50 years of American loader manufacturing (remember these models still have Gehl DNA).

“I might be a little biased, but I think we have one of the best-looking lineups on the market now,” said Handel. “We’ve matched the rugged durability and performance of each machine with a really modern and industrial look that starts with the cab and the most critical elements pertaining to operator comfort and visibility.”

Why This Launch Matters

The large-frame skid steer and CTL trend is no fad. Contractors want one loader that can grade, clear, load and mulch. They’re asking for machines that replace dozers on small sites, handle forestry attachments and still fit on a tag trailer. Manitou’s five new machines answer that demand. They bring horsepower, breakout force and hydraulic capacity to match competitors like Cat, Case, JCB and Takeuchi. They add operator-focused cabs and service-friendly designs. And they fit cleanly into a lineup that now spans the entire loader spectrum.

Manitou has planted a flag in the super skid steer market. These machines aren’t just about more power. They’re about giving contractors another serious option at the top of the category.

“There’s definitely an industry demand for a larger frame machine and even here at Manitou what we would call an extra-large frame machine,” said Ryan. “There’s also an advantage in keeping them in the footprint of a skid steer or compact track loader. When you step up to a larger style of construction equipment, it poses challenges in terms of transportation and access to worksites. So that’s why we’re looking at making skid steers and compact track loaders bigger and better because the operators are familiar with them, the transportation is easier and you have better machine access. Plus, obviously you have a wider variety of attachment capabilities.”

Keith Gribbins is publisher of Compact Equipment.

Find out more about some of the largest skid steers on the market.