The first time I tackled a mulching job with a skid steer, I quickly realized one thing: not all skid steers are built for mulching. It was a dense thicket of brush, saplings, and overgrown vegetation, and the machine I had simply didn’t have the power or the hydraulic flow to handle the mulcher attachment. That’s when I started diving deep into finding the best skid steer for mulching. Since then, I’ve worked with some of the best out there, and here’s what I’ve learned along the way.
What Makes a Skid Steer Ideal for Mulching?
Before jumping into the best models, it’s crucial to understand what makes a skid steer capable of handling mulching:
- High Hydraulic Flow: Mulching attachments need high-flow hydraulics (often 30+ GPM) to power through thick brush and trees.
- Power: You’re looking for at least 70 horsepower (HP) to tackle mulching jobs efficiently. Less power, and you’ll be struggling.
- Weight & Stability: Mulching attachments are heavy and can shift a lighter skid steer, especially on uneven terrain. A weight class above 9,000 pounds gives you that stability.
- Cooling Systems: Mulching puts a lot of strain on a machine, so excellent cooling for both the engine and hydraulics is essential.
Top Skid Steers for Mulching in 2024
1. Caterpillar 299D3 XE Land Management
Arguably, one of the best machines designed specifically for mulching.
- Hydraulic Flow: Up to 40 GPM high-flow hydraulics, ideal for mulching attachments.
- Horsepower: 110 HP, making it one of the most powerful options on the market.
- Cooling System: Cat’s enhanced cooling system is made to keep the engine and hydraulics at optimal temperatures, even on extended jobs.
- Other Features: The sealed and pressurized cab keeps dust and debris out, which is a blessing during mulching work.
Why It’s Great for Mulching
The Caterpillar 299D3 XE is built for land management, with a specific focus on mulching. Its high-flow hydraulic system and superior horsepower make it perfect for handling thick underbrush and trees up to 8 inches in diameter.
2. Bobcat T870
Another workhorse for mulching, known for its excellent power and versatility.
- Hydraulic Flow: High-flow hydraulics can reach up to 37 GPM.
- Horsepower: 100 HP, which is great for handling large mulching jobs.
- Cooling System: Bobcat’s cooling systems keep both the engine and hydraulic fluid from overheating, even under the toughest conditions.
Why It’s Great for Mulching
The Bobcat T870 provides a strong, consistent power output that’s ideal for heavy-duty mulching work. It’s also versatile, making it a great all-round skid steer for various land management tasks.
3. John Deere 333G
John Deere is known for its reliability, and the 333G is a favorite for mulching contractors.
- Hydraulic Flow: 41 GPM on the high-flow model.
- Horsepower: 100 HP, giving it plenty of torque to handle tough mulching tasks.
- Cooling System: Efficient cooling to keep your machine running at optimal performance even in the hottest conditions.
Why It’s Great for Mulching
The John Deere 333G is built like a tank. Its heavy-duty build and excellent hydraulic performance make it a top contender for mulching and forestry work. Plus, the cab is comfortable for those long hours in rough conditions.
4. ASV RT-120 Forestry
If you’re dealing with really rough terrain, this is the one to beat.
- Hydraulic Flow: Up to 45 GPM, the highest on the list.
- Horsepower: 120 HP, making it the most powerful skid steer in its class.
- Cooling System: Built with forestry work in mind, it features a top-tier cooling system to prevent overheating in even the toughest environments.
Why It’s Great for Mulching
The ASV RT-120 Forestry is a beast when it comes to mulching. The high ground clearance and low ground pressure make it great for navigating uneven, soft, or swampy terrain without sacrificing performance. If you’re serious about mulching, especially in remote or difficult areas, this machine is hard to beat.
5. Takeuchi TL12V2
Takeuchi’s largest and most powerful skid steer is a great option for mulching.
- Hydraulic Flow: High-flow option with up to 40 GPM.
- Horsepower: 111 HP, which is more than enough for serious mulching jobs.
- Cooling System: Designed to withstand heavy workloads, the cooling system keeps everything running smoothly.
Why It’s Great for Mulching
The Takeuchi TL12V2 offers one of the most comfortable cabs for long hours in the field. Paired with its power and hydraulic capabilities, it handles dense material and large areas efficiently.
Key Features Comparison
| Model | Hydraulic Flow (GPM) | Horsepower (HP) | Cooling System | Best Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caterpillar 299D3 XE | 40 GPM | 110 HP | Enhanced cooling | Built specifically for mulching |
| Bobcat T870 | 37 GPM | 100 HP | Efficient cooling | Versatile and powerful |
| John Deere 333G | 41 GPM | 100 HP | Efficient cooling | Heavy-duty build |
| ASV RT-120 Forestry | 45 GPM | 120 HP | Superior cooling | Great on tough terrain |
| Takeuchi TL12V2 | 40 GPM | 111 HP | Optimized cooling | Excellent comfort and power balance |
What to Look for in a Skid Steer for Mulching
When picking a skid steer for mulching, here are a few extra things you’ll want to consider:
- Attachment Compatibility: Make sure the skid steer has the hydraulic capacity to handle a mulcher attachment. High-flow hydraulics are a must.
- Weight and Balance: A skid steer with good weight distribution and a low center of gravity will give you better stability on rough terrain.
- Track System: Rubber tracks are usually better for mulching since they provide better flotation and stability over uneven ground.
- Maintenance: Mulching can be rough on equipment, so choosing a machine that’s easy to service and has a durable design will save you time and money in the long run.
Final Thoughts: Which Skid Steer Should You Choose?
If you’re doing large-scale mulching regularly, you want to go with something like the Caterpillar 299D3 XE or the ASV RT-120 Forestry. They are built for these types of tasks, have the highest hydraulic flow, and can handle larger mulching attachments without overheating.
For those looking for a more versatile machine that can handle mulching but also take on other tasks, the Bobcat T870 or John Deere 333G are excellent options that balance performance, power, and versatility.
Remember, it’s not just about the skid steer—it’s about getting the right combination of machine and mulcher attachment to handle your work efficiently.