Skid Steer Trencher FAQs

Whether your crews simply need to dig long, linear ditches quickly and cost-effectively, you are wondering about the limitations and utility of skid steer trenchers, or you just want to know if it makes more sense to get a dedicated trencher or a skid steer attachment compatible with your machine, this short guide should help.

Can a Skid Steer Dig a Ditch?

Absolutely, when paired with the right skid steer attachments. Skid steer loaders are commonly equipped with buckets. These are better suited for digging wide shallow holes, compiling waste and building mounds, and compacting than they are for digging ditches. A skid steer trencher attachment is better for that.

What Is a Skid Steer Trencher?

A skid steer trencher is an attachment that consists of a long bar/boom with a chain that is optimized for digging long, narrow ditches called trenches. They are configurable with a variety of different chain and teeth styles (see below) and can be used for a surprisingly diverse range of applications.

What Is a Skid Steer Trencher Attachment Used for?

High-quality skid steer trencher attachments have a wide range of different applications. Naturally, they are best at digging trenches, but their utility extends far beyond this.

For one, these trenches can be used for irrigation and drainage purposes, such as for the construction of French drains. Trenchers can also be used in construction to dig trenches for laying conduits, pipes, communications cables and much more. They can also be used to help excavate retaining walls.

Will a Trencher Cut Through Roots?

How effectively and efficiently a trencher can cut through tree roots depends primarily on two things: the tooth style and the thickness and size of the roots. Generally, however, trenchers can cut through small roots with no problem.

How Deep Can a Skid Steer Trencher Dig?

That depends on the length of the boom and the angle at which you’re digging, but cutting at a recommended digging angle of about 65°, you should be able to get down between 2 and 4 feet.

Is It Worth It to Buy a Trencher for Your Skid Steer?

That depends on the sorts of jobs your crews routinely have to perform. If you need to excavate a lot of long, linear ditches (regardless of the application) then a trencher for your skid steer is a much more practical attachment than, say, a bucket or a backhoe. However, it should also be noted that trenchers are limited in how deep they can dig and in the size and shape of the holes they can excavate.

What About Buying a Dedicated Machine? (Vs. Just Getting a Skid Steer Attachment)

One option you’ll have to consider is whether it makes sense to configure one of your existing machines with a skid steer trencher attachment, or if you should get a dedicated trencher machine.

Again, it depends on your crews’ roles and responsibilities. If you need to dig a lot of trenches regularly, a dedicated machine might be better. At the same time, since we sell so many skid steer attachments compatible with most major makes and models of skid loaders, they’re more versatile than dedicated trenchers since the attachments can be easily swapped out.

When Is Another Skid Steer Attachment for Digging a Better Idea?

There are numerous other types of specialized skid steer attachments that are also engineered for digging.

If you need to dig a lot of straight, deep holes, then a skid steer auger attachment is a better choice. These are ideal for digging holes for planting trees, installing pilings and fence and sign posts, and for pouring footings.

If you need to dig deep, irregularly sized holes, then backhoes and skid steer bucket attachments are far more versatile than trencher attachments.

What Are the Different Types of Trencher Teeth and Chains?

Spartan Equipment skid steer trencher attachments are made with multiple styles of teeth and chains. These consist of cup teeth, which are designed for excavating a greater volume, and which are ideal for soft sandy and loamy soils, as well as shark teeth that are better for more aggressive cutting and digging. We also have rock and frost chains that are designed for the most aggressive cutting applications including frozen earth and rock.

How to Properly Store a Trencher Attachment for a Skid Steer

Before storing your trencher attachment, perform a basic visual inspection for wear and tear, and to replace and repair any damage or missing hardware. Do not store your attachment in an area frequented by children; if possible, store it in a hangar, warehouse, shed, or other covered location to protect it against the elements.

Skid Steer Trenchers That Will Never Surrender

Spartan Equipment produces the industry’s toughest skid steer attachments, most of which are compatible with most major makes and models of skid loaders. Moreover, our attachments are made in the United States using top-quality American steel. They are designed to deliver unflinching performance and will Never Surrender.

If you have any questions about compatibility, attachment specifications, or appropriate uses before you buy, get in touch with us and we will be more than happy to help you.