Compact Track Loader Advice from 16 Manufacturers
A compact track loader’s fame rests in its ability to tackle tough terrain, provide extra power on the jobsite and leave a light footprint. Its dedicated undercarriage and tracks can navigate slippery inclines and delicate work surfaces without a problem. Don’t forget the hundreds of attachments you can use to tackle seriously any job. Impressive, right?
While these machines are great investments, it’s important to spec out the right one for your needs. To help, we’ve gathered advice from 16 compact track loader manufacturers from Cat and John Deere to Takeuchi and Wacker Neuson. Hopefully these expert tips can guide you toward the perfect compact track loader.
ASV
“Don’t underestimate the value of a comfortable cab,” says Peter Ovrebo, director of product management, Yanmar Compact Equipment North America. “It’s easy to look at comfort features and think of them as ‘nice-to-have’ but not necessary. But whether you’re an owner-operator or manage a crew of operators, a spacious, comfortable cab with ergonomic features and ease-of-visibility makes long days easier and can improve productivity.”
Bobcat Company
“When considering your equipment needs, think about the most frequent work challenges you face,” says Ryan Saunders, senior product marketing specialist at Bobcat Company. “Operators should consider the advantages of opting for productivity-enhancing features. Time is money, and new technology in compact equipment can save you both. Telematics features allow customers to access new and historical machine information — from virtually anywhere and at any time. The telematics system provides information including hours in operation, fuel usage, equipment location, critical fault codes and service milestones. It’s also important to consider if certain technologies will maximize your performance or precision. These are all important considerations when it comes to selecting the right compact track loader and features to accomplish more on your jobsites.”
Case Construction Equipment
“Take the time to do a demo and explore the features beyond the spec sheet that impact quality of work — like the operator environment or the electro-hydraulic controls,” says Joe Boufford, product manager, skid steers and compact track loaders, at Case Construction Equipment. “Feel how the suspension track affects the smoothness of the ride. Test the intuitiveness of the operator interface. Finding a machine that an operator will want to work in day by day will go a long way to boost productivity.”
Caterpillar
“When buying a machine, it is important to get in a machine and try it out to get a feel for its performance, visibility and comfort,” says Morgan Timiney, Caterpillar sales support consultant. “Get an idea of how the controls are integrated, how the visibility is when working and whether it will complete the job. Additionally, it is important to consider the adjustability and customization of the machine to many types of operators. As it gets harder to find experienced operators, preferences such as sensitivities, speed limits and integrated technologies will become increasingly important.”
Develon
“When evaluating today’s compact track loaders, customers should inquire about safety features available for the machines,” says Jacob Sherman, Develon product manager. “For example, does a rearview camera come standard? Is an around view monitor (AVM) camera system available as an option? How is the visibility to the front and sides of the machine from inside the cab? Since compact track loaders are often used in narrow and confined areas, it’s critical for operators to have good visibility to their surroundings.”
Gehl
“There’s such a wide variety of lift patterns, track widths, hydraulic capabilities and sizes that there is really no reason to ever settle for a compact track loader that doesn’t fit your operation,” says Nathan Ryan, global product manager of skid and track loaders for Gehl. “Work with your local dealer to match the right footprint and capability of the machine with the right attachments to optimize your business.”
Hyundai
“When selecting a compact track loader, assess your primary applications,” says Julio Vargas, product manager for compact track loaders at Hyundai. “Prioritize lift arm configurations — vertical lifts are better for higher reach, while radial lifts suit ground-level work. Consider track width for specific terrains, ensuring optimal traction and minimal surface damage. Finally, evaluate available attachments and maintenance access, which can significantly impact long-term value and efficiency.”
JCB
“When you’re looking at a CTL, it’s important to think about more than just what you need right now,” says Lee Tice, JCB product manager. “Make sure the machine is the right size for your current jobs and where you want your operation to go in the future. A versatile machine, like one of the JCB Teleskids with its telescopic boom, can handle a wide range of tasks so you’re ready for anything. Picking the right equipment now means you’ll get more out of it over time and see a better return on your investment.”
John Deere
“Look beyond model number/horsepower and compare machine capability to your needs, in a demo if possible,” says Emily Pagura, product marketing manager at John Deere. “Comparing machines from various manufacturers based on model number, position in the lineup or engine power, could lead you into an under or oversized machine, neither of which is ideal. Smaller machines may not do what you need, but larger machines carry higher costs initially and over time. Getting into an incorrectly sized machine is a fast path to being unhappy with your choice, and thus should be the first priority at the beginning of the process, especially for those who are new to the product.”
Kioti
“Maintaining your compact track loader is crucial for ensuring machine uptime and safety,” says Justin Moe, product manager, construction division, at Kioti Tractor. “These versatile powerhouses are designed for various applications, from demolition to material loading. To keep your machine running smoothly, operators should regularly check fluid levels, air filters, and for potential leaks. A daily walk-around inspection is essential, and should include checking the bucket, cutting edges, and teeth for wear patterns and usage trends. One commonly overlooked task is greasing. Proper greasing reduces unnecessary wear and keeps operations running quietly and efficiently. Above all, ensure all safety equipment is fully functional as operator and jobsite safety is critical to staying on track.”
Kubota
“There is no substitute for knowing your application and tailoring your machine to it,” says Jerry Corder, product manager — construction equipment at Kubota. “From space limitations to attachments and their auxiliary flow requirements — all the way to transporting [truck and trailer] weight and license limitations. These are the specs buyers need to consider when making a track loader purchase. And the good news is Kubota will have a solution to fit many needs; we have a range of sizes, models and attachments to match the job.”
Manitou
“It’s important to take the entire lifecycle of the machine into account when making a purchase, and understand how that affects the owning and operating costs of the machine,” says Nathan Ryan, global product manager for CTLs at Manitou. “Understanding everything from planned utilization to attachments, to dealer proximity and responsiveness, will impact the lifetime cost of that machine — in a much bigger way than just initial purchase price.”
New Holland Construction
“The key is finding the machine that fits your work,” says Doran Herritt, product marketing manager at New Holland Construction. “Consider what attachments you’ll use, the power needed and whether you need telematics. Prioritize operator comfort and maintenance accessibility. Check your dealer’s service and support capabilities, explore rental options, book a demo and review financing to ensure it’s a good investment.”
Takeuchi
“At Takeuchi, we see many compact track loaders (CTLs) used in land-clearing applications,” said Lee Padgett, national product manager at Takeuchi. “When purchasing a CTL for this purpose, be sure to prioritize models with high-performance hydraulic systems and high-flow capabilities. Some CTLs, like our TL12R2 and TL12V2 models, feature a proportional auxiliary hydraulic circuits and optional high-flow systems. These specifications make it possible to use demanding land-clearing attachments like mulchers and brush cutters. It’s essential to properly match flow rates between the machine and attachment to avoid damage and maintain efficiency. Additionally, land-clearing applications require close attention to the manufacturer’s recommended routine maintenance, such as cleaning couplers and monitoring hydraulic oil temperatures, to extend system life and performance. Proper attachment use and maintenance can enhance versatility and return on investment for land management projects.”
Wacker Neuson
“Research and learn about the CTL options that are available in the market, but also take the next step in understanding the tradeoffs you face when selecting systems and option types,” says Wacker Neuson product application and training specialist, John Dotto. “For example, an overhead door provides some benefits, but because of the door track, loader controls have to be moved out of the operator’s line of sight. DPF machines may come with pricing advantages up front, but what will that system cost you to maintain for the life of the loader? Suspension systems may provide a smooth ride, but can they hold a grade and provide feedback to the seat of the operator? When you start to look across the market at the options available to you, make sure you ask yourself about the drawbacks and benefits of each machine and system. Just understand that decisions come with tradeoffs.”
Yanmar Compact Equipment North America
“Whether for new operators or experienced ones, there’s a lot to be said about operator-assist technologies and features that help with training and boost efficiency on the jobsite,” says Peter Ovrebo, director of product management, Yanmar Compact Equipment North America. “Make repetitive jobs easier by looking for features that return the bucket to a set angle and height. Lose less material with dual-direction self-leveling and ride control technology. These features go beyond the level of just bells and whistles and can make a big difference to your productivity.”
Pam Kleineke is managing editor of Compact Equipment.
