Cat^® Skid Steer Loader: Hammer

Hit It Harder, Every Time.

Cat^® skid steer hammers are excellent tools for demolition, construction and quarry projects. A hammer drill attachment makes short work of busting up concrete, breaking pavement and roads and preparing ground for utility repairs. Proper maintenance of your Cat hammer drill attachment can take your production even farther, which makes a Cat hammer maintenance kit a convenient perk.

A Cat skid steer hammer comes with a maintenance kit that allows you to keep your attachment operating at full efficiency. Maintenance kits are stocked with an extra hammer bit, hydraulic hammer paste that withstands high temperatures, an additional retaining pin for the hammer tool, a center line punch to be used when servicing the hammer, an adapter for checking nitrogen levels, a nitrogen gas charging gauge and additional tool replacement parts in case your attachment is damaged during use.

By nature of its use, a skid steer hammer is going to take abuse. The tool is built to break rock in harsh conditions, so damage can occur if operators are not attentive and careful. Here are some steps you can take to keep your hydraulic hammer attachment in top form:

1. Look before you hammer

Inspect your skid steer hammer for wear before each use. Things like loose bolts, missing parts or leaking fluid are easy to identify. You should also inspect all hydraulic connections from hammer to skid steer to ensure they are not loose.

2. Grease as you go

It’s recommended that skid steer loader hammer attachments be greased at least once per use. This prevents excessive wear on the tool and bushings. Some hydraulic hammers come equipped with an automatic lubrication system. If the model you own is automatically lubed, inspect the unit daily to make sure the grease cartridge is full. Reference the owner’s manual for details on routine maintenance.

3. Learn to hammer with precision

Using a skid steer hammer seems like a simple task, but there is skill and technique involved. Operators should start hammering at the edge of the material and then work their way in slowly. Once you find a focal point to hammer, move after about 15 seconds. If the material you are working on doesn’t break in 15 seconds, it’s best to move on to a different spot. Your skid steer hammer should be positioned perpendicular to the material.

4. Only use your hammer to hammer

It can be tempting to use a Cat hammer to pry away loose material or move heavy stone into position to save time. This action can damage the attachment. Only use the hammer to break material, then use a different attachment—a bucket or grapple—to remove it from the workspace.

5. Store your hammer with care

An organized operator will get more out of a skid steer hammer. The attachment needs to be stored vertically, to prevent cylinder seals from flattening due to the weight of the tool. It’s also best to store a hammer inside during cold winter months, if possible. Colder elements can cause sealing surfaces to rust, and water freezing inside the hammer can do significant damage. By storing a hammer vertically, you allow any water to run off the tool.

Not all Cat hammers are created equal. There are various carrier sizes and power ranges to consider. A skid steer loader will require a smaller hammer than a large excavator. It’s important to find a hammer attachment that doesn’t affect machine stability. You also want the proper bit for the material you’re hammering. Do your homework on hydraulic requirements, operating weight, energy class and attachment specifications.

Hammers can last for years, even with the punishment they take. Utilizing the hammer maintenance kit and following a few guidelines will extend the life and productivity of the attachment. There are different tips and tricks to maximizing your skid steer hammer, depending on which region of the country you work. Your local Cat Dealer is an excellent source of knowledge on dos and don’ts for hydraulic hammer maintenance. When you’re ready to add this powerful tool to your Cat skid steer loader, talk to your dealer to choose the right one.