Cat^® Skid Steer Loader: Quick Attach

Change Tools With Ease.

When it comes to skid steers, hydraulic attachments make the machine more productive and versatile. The Cat^® skid steer hydraulic quick-attach system is designed to make life easier for operators. With a few simple adjustments, work crews can equip skid steers with the attachment tools needed to get the job done right. 

When you’re connecting a hydromechanical attachment, it’s important to be careful and take the proper steps for safety and efficiency. Follow these simple guidelines for secure hydraulic connections:

• Remove the dust covers from the hydraulic coupling on the front of the skid steer lift arm.
• Relieve hydraulic pressure by pushing in and holding the coupling. Do this for all the couplings on the lift arm.
• Clean the faces of the hoses and couplings before attempting to attach. This prevents contamination and excess wear.
• Route the flow lines through the hose guides on the lift arm. The Operations and Maintenance Manual (OMM) contains information for the proper routing of individual work tools.
• Make your connection by pressing the male end firmly into the coupling. If the connection is secure, you’ll hear the coupling click and lock into place.
• Confirm the connection by rotating the collar on the hose until it doesn’t move.
• Pull on the hose to ensure your connection is locked and secure.
• Repeat these steps for additional hydraulic hoses.

To disconnect a hydraulic work tool:

• Firmly press the hose coupling against the skid steer lift arm to release the hydraulic pressure back into the machine.
• Slide the locking sleeve back on the coupling, and pull the hose away from the lift arm.
• Follow the same steps for remaining hydraulic hoses.

When the work is done, keep your attachment clean and ready for the next task. To prevent contamination and wear, reinstall dust caps on the machine couplings. Inspect hydraulic hoses for cracks or leaks. Keep lines safe from damage, and reduce pressure buildup by connecting the male and female ends of the work attachment tools together. Taking a little time for proper maintenance will make it easier to get started the next time you need to use the work tool attachment.  

There are Cat skid steer loaders that come equipped with powered quick couplers for work tool attachments. This feature makes it possible to change attachments without having to leave the cab of the machine. With the attachment properly positioned on the ground in front of the skid steer, the operator can slowly drive the machine to the attachment, tilt the coupler forward and lock the work tool into place.

Once the connection is made, the operator lifts and tilts the coupler and work tool back to allow the tool to fully seat. The pins for the attachment are then engaged from the controls inside the cab. Operators should always test that the connection is secure before using the skid steer attachment. 

The benefit of the Cat skid steer hydraulic quick-attach system is the ease of switching up work tool attachments in a matter of minutes. The technology allows a single machine to be more versatile and productive. From hydraulic hammers and augers to bale grabs and brushes, there’s almost nothing you can’t accomplish with a Cat skid steer loader.

When trying to determine which work tool attachments to get, think about which applications you need for your business. If you own a landscaping company with the need to move heavy materials and supplies, Cat fork attachments are an important investment. You should also consider snow-management attachments if you’re located in a colder climate. Snowplow and wing attachments can help keep businesses profitable during the winter months.

Always check the proper procedures in your OMM. It’s a great resource to use if you run into any issues while connecting or removing a work tool attachment from your machine. There are specific instructions for each type of work tool attachment. You can also contact your local Cat dealer with any questions.