Best John Deere Skid Steer for Farm and Construction Work in Southwest Kansas
Most agricultural machinery, like tractors, is best suited for specific applications like farming or landscaping. But with versatile compact equipment like skid steers, you can get the best of both worlds, finding use for the machines on several operations, whether it be a construction site, warehouse, or farm. This is great for landowners and contractors with big plans for their land who need a machine that can help with every task from lifting bales to digging. John Deere offers a nice selection of skid steers to tackle all kinds of projects in Southwest Kansas. Adaptable, stable, and reliable John Deere skid steers are the best option to get the job done right.
What Factors Should I Consider When Getting a Skid Steer for Farm and Construction?
Power and Lift Capacity
The amount of horsepower and lift capacity a skid steer has will determine the range of tasks it can handle. Skid steers with ample horsepower (around 70-80 HP) are designed to take on heavy-duty tasks such as digging or heavy lifting. However, skid steers with about 60-70 HP provide just enough to complete everyday farm chores effortlessly.
Traction and Stability
In Southwest Kansas, you will likely work on varied landscapes with soil conditions ranging from hard-packed clay to loose, sandy ground, depending on location. This requires you to have a machine that’s fit to adapt to your terrain. Tracked skid steers or compact track loaders are best suited for challenging grounds like loose, sandy, or muddy soils. However, if you’re working on firm, paved areas or inside warehouses, the wheels of the skid steer are your best bet.
Attachment Compatibility
Skid steers are designed to have multi-use capabilities, and part of their value is the wide selection of attachments they can utilize. Odds are you’ll have to move between different tasks throughout the day, and features like the Quick–Tatch system, designed for fast and easy attachment changes, can make a real difference in productivity.
Comfortable Cab
Both farmers and construction workers are no strangers to working long days in the cab. The day will go by much smoother if you’re in a cab you’re comfortable in. Thankfully, our John Deere skid steers come with several features that enhance your ride, like ergonomic controls, spacious interiors, and a sealed and pressurized cab for minimal disturbance.
Our Top John Deere Skid Steer Picks for Farm and Construction
John Deere 324G
The 324G is a great economical choice for farmers and contractors needing a skid steer for daily farm chores and light construction. With low operating costs and easy-access maintenance points, it’s built to minimize downtime so you can keep your operation moving. With 74 HP available, the mid-sized skid steer provides the perfect balance of power and agility. The 324G is excellent for general-purpose work. The vertical lift, along with superior bucket breakout forces, makes tasks like loading and pallet moving a breeze. It’s also equipped with increased auxiliary hydraulic flows and power compared to previous models, enabling greater performance while running attachments.
John Deere 330 P-Tier
The 330 P-Tier is a more robust option for producers and contractors who need to knock out demanding tasks daily. With a whopping 98 HP available and operating capacity at nearly 3000 lbs, the large-frame skid steer has what it takes to fulfill rigorous jobs like excavation work, heavy lifting, or managing large loads. The P-Tier series has a couple of noteworthy upgrades, including the redesigned cab with a new, more comfortable seat and increased visibility, larger fuel tanks, and ride control. Plus, the new Attachment Manager makes running attachments easier than ever, pre-programmed with optimal flow and pressure settings to get the best performance.
John Deere 334 P-Tier
The 334 P-Tier is the top pick to tackle your most challenging farm and construction jobs. The large frame skid steer clocks in at an outstanding gross horsepower of 118 with an operating capacity of 4000 lbs, making it capable of handling heavy-duty work like roadbuilding, site development, and vegetation management. A highlight of this model is the advanced SmartGrade technology, offering advanced grade control solutions for more efficient cutting and spreading. Despite its increase in power, flow, and pressure, the 334 P-Tier stays cool under pressure thanks to an upgraded cooling package to keep up with the demands of peak workflows.
Popular Attachments for Farm and Construction Work
- Buckets: A universal attachment that comes in many forms. Has a ton of uses, from moving materials to snow clearing to site prep.
- Auger: Excellent tools for precise digging, the auger can be useful for installing fence posts, poles, and other structures.
- Grapples: An essential for site cleanup or daily chores, grapples are highly efficient in collecting debris, fallen branches, and even hay.
- Pallet Forks: As the name suggests, these forks are perfect for stacking and moving pallets, but can also be used to stack and load hay and other materials.
- Mulching Head: Managing vegetation and overgrowth is made simple with the mulching head. A must for those with extensive acreage.
- Bale Spears: Ideal for cattle and hay operations, bale spears allow for quick and easy pickup of large round or square bales.
Where To Buy Skid Steers in Southwest Kansas
When choosing your equipment, you’ll want to buy from a dealer that’s close to home to understand the unique challenges of your operation. If you’re in Southwest Kansas, look no further than American Implement — your trusted neighborhood dealer. We have locations all across the Plains, including one in Dodge City. By choosing us, you’ll have access to a full network of support, including expert assistance, parts, and service. We also offer tailored financing options to meet your needs so you can get to work sooner. Feel free to reach out to your nearest dealer to learn more about how we can support your operations.
Add a machine to your fleet that’s capable of doing it all. Browse our online inventory to get a quote today or visit your nearest American Implement to find the best John Deere skid steer for your setup.
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