We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Machinery

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What are Wheel Loaders?

By J.Gunsch
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 15,984
Share

Wheel loaders are a type of heavy machinery used in construction, as well as for many other non construction tasks. They have sturdy tires equipped with large, rugged treads that allow for optimum maneuverability. Common types include mini, small, large and super wheel loaders; skid steers; front loaders and backhoe loaders.

This type of machinery is a variation on the tractor and is designed for more laborious work. The biggest difference between the two can be seen in their steering systems. Most wheel loaders' steering systems use a hydraulically actuated pivot point, which allows the front and rear axle to bear more weight than automotive steering systems.

Wheel loaders have a square bucket, called the loader, which is maneuvered by flexible arms. The loader is either a permanent fixture or an attachment secured to either the front or back of the machine. Some varieties, such as a backhoe loader, have a bucket in the front and a backhoe in the rear. This kind of machine is able to dig with the backhoe and remove the unearthed material with the loader.

There are four general tasks that these machines can perform: scooping, digging, dumping and carrying. They are commonly used for carrying construction materials like bricks, pipes and rock, and are also good for snow removal in commercial areas. Most farms use various types of loaders for many reasons, including scooping and transporting hay and excavating the land. Small ones can be used inside buildings.

Wheel loaders have an advantage over track loaders, because they are easier on paved roads and other sensitive environments. Track loaders are more suited to tasks that involve digging, however, because vehicles with wheels are unable to dig much below the tires without getting stuck. When a task involves transport or shallow excavation, a wheel loader is less destructive and therefore more efficient in the long term.

Share
About Mechanics is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.aboutmechanics.com/what-are-wheel-loaders.htm
Copy this link
About Mechanics, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

About Mechanics, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.