Are skid steer attachments universal? We get this question from customers all the time, and we understand why. If you’ve ever spent hours sweating over an attachment, trying desperately to get it to fit your machine, we promise you aren’t alone. Knowing what attachments fit your equipment will help you save time, money, and a whole lot of headaches.
In this blog, we’re breaking down whether all skid steer attachments are interchangeable, explaining the difference between mini and standard types. We’ll also show you how to attach skid steer attachments and go through hydraulics and pressure release to make sure you’re covered from start to finish.
Are Skid Steer Attachments Universal?
In most cases, yes, skid steer attachments are universal. Most of the skid steers you can buy these days will use the universal quick-attach system. You might have heard of this being called ‘Bobcat-style’ or ‘SAE standard’. So, are all skid steer attachments interchangeable? If you’re working with gear that has the quick-attach setup, then yes.
But — because there’s always a ‘but’ — not all earth-moving equipment is created equal. Some older skid steers or less popular brands might use their own mounting plates or different hydraulic couplings, so it’s always worth double-checking before you buy.
While we’re talking about compatibility, we can’t ignore mini-machines. Are mini skid steer attachments universal? Not always. Mini skid steers (like Dingo or Kanga) often use smaller, brand-specific mounts, which just aren’t compatible with full-size attachments.
‘Measure twice, cut once’ applies to buying equipment, too. Reach out to our team for advice about what will fit your machine before you invest.
How To Attach Skid Steer Attachments
Welcome to the step-by-step guide section of the blog. Let’s break down exactly how to attach skid steer attachments safely and efficiently. You can follow this guide if you’re using a bucket, fork, auger, or any other tool.
- Line it up: Slowly drive your skid steer up to the attachment. Make sure the machine is square and aligned. You’re better to back up and try again if you don’t nail it the first time.
- Mounting plate contact: Tilt the mounting plate forward so it slides into the back of the attachment. (The slide is the answer to the question, ‘How does a skid steer bucket attach to the machine?’ You just have to slide it right.)
- Lock it in: Drop the quick-attach levers down to secure the plate. Some machines have hydraulic locking, which you should engage if you’ve got it.
- Test the latch: Lift slightly and tilt back to confirm the attachment’s locked on properly.
- Connect hydraulics (if needed): If it’s a powered attachment, follow the steps below to hook up your hoses.
Pro Tip: Always double-check that the levers are locked in before use. A loose connection is a serious safety risk.
Once you know how to attach a bucket to a skid steer, you’ll have no dramas swapping out tools on-site in minutes.
How to Attach Hydraulic Hoses & Release Pressure
Got a system running on hydraulics? Here’s how to attach hydraulic hoses to skid steer machines without damaging your equipment (or yourself).
- Release pressure: This step is the most important. If the lines are pressurised, you won’t get a clean connection. Turn the machine off, move the joystick controls back and forth a few times to bleed residual pressure, and gently push on the couplers to confirm they’re ready.
- Wipe connections: Dirt in the lines is a big no-no. Give the male and female ends a quick clean before joining.
- Connect hoses: Firmly push the hydraulic hoses into their matching couplers. You should hear a solid ‘click’ or feel them lock in.
- Test it: Fire up the machine and run the controls briefly to check for leaks or connection issues.
Wondering how to release pressure on skid steer attachments safely? If not, you should definitely be thinking about it, because doing it wrong is both highly dangerous and highly embarrassing. Always shut down the machine and cycle the controls — it’s the most effective method for a clean, safe hook-up.
What Makes Mini Skid Steer Attachments Different?
Now that you know a bit more about how to attach a skid steer attachment, we can dive a bit deeper into what makes a mini machine different.
Mini skid steers (like a Toro, Vermeer, Dingo, or Kanga) will usually feature a smaller mounting plate and hydraulic setup. That means your standard skid steer tools won’t fit a mini — and vice versa. Each brand might even have its own system.
The result? Mini attachments aren’t interchangeable with standard-sized skid steers. Choosing the right attachment size and coupling system protects your machine from damage and keeps you working efficiently on-site.
If you’re unsure, give us a call — we’ll steer you in the right direction.
Get the Right Fit with Bunyip Equipment
Need help picking the right gear? Our team at Bunyip Equipment knows these machines inside and out. Browse our full range of attachments or get in touch for expert advice backed by years of hands-on experience.
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