Compact Articulated Wheel Loaders

by: Aapo Skogster

Farm tractors and skid steers are popular, readily available and relatively inexpensive machines.  However, these reasons alone may not make them the most effective or profitable machine for every job on the farm.

Compact Articulated Wheel Loaders (CAWL) are proving more efficient than tractors and skid steers especially for feeding/cleaning inside barns, loading conveyors/hoppers/mixers and loading/unloading transport vehicles. CAWLs can totally replace a tractor or skid steer but have also found a niche working alongside more traditional farm machinery.

Despite being a mainstay on farms in Europe for many years, CAWLs have been underrated and little noticed by Canadian farmers. CAWL manufacturers recently have invested in the Canadian farm market making their products, parts, and services available locally. Now, Canadian farmers can finally reap the benefits of CAWLs.

Observations/Classifications of two main groups of CAWL (specs are general and approximate):

• Mixed Use CAWL, bucket size ¼ yard to ½ yard, weight 1500-5500 lbs, with a hydr. flow of 8 to 19 gal., HP 20 to 50.

• Industrial Size CAWL, bucket size ¾ yard to 1 ¼ yard, weight of 7000-10000 lbs, with a hydr. flow of 30 to 40 gal., HP 60 to 80.

Modern farms strive for efficiency and profit.  Careful evaluation of modern hydraulic equipment design and performance can show that the tractor PTO or the skid steer push and spin machine may no longer be the best choice.

When analyzing machine types and brands, especially machines new to the farm, the process should involve extensive research, and on-site demos and tests arranged with the local CAWL dealer.

The two main types of CAWL are: 

• Hoflader type CAWL, where the driver’s seat is mounted on the rear chassis (most common)

• Front seat driven CAWL, where the driver sits on the front chassis

Some main components / features of CAWL to consider and evaluate are:

• Rigid articulation joint vs. oscillation joint

• GVW unladen and max GVW laden

• How easy to transport, from job to job

• Versatility, year round, job limitations

Canadian farmers are especially attracted to the speed, visibility, lift capacities (ratio to machine weight) and low ground compression of CAWLs.  CAWLs are proving themselves and local farmers are realizing why these machines are hugely popular in Europe. Contact the manufacturers and/or dealers listed if you’re interested in seeing how these exciting, versatile CAWLs can help your farm to grow its bottom line.