Grainews Machinery Challenge: Skid steers already live on many farms, how does this one compare?
Most farmers are no strangers to a skid steer loader. There are several makes and models popular with farmers on the market now, so we included Kubota’s largest model, the SSV 75, in our test group. We wanted to see how it stacks up not only to other skids steers but where it lands in the full range of materials-handling options farmers have.
Typical of general skid steer design, it doesn’t offer the kind of versatility the hybrid telehandlers do. But we found that what this model does, it does well. That also means the SSV 75 comes in with a much lower as-equipped MSRP of $68,140. Our test model had the enclosed cab, high-flow hydraulics option and was equipped with a standard bucket.
The SSV 75 gets a 75 horsepower Kubota diesel and routes power through a two-speed transmission that offers a maximum travel speed of just under 12 m.p.h.
The SSV 75 had the optional multi-function control lever layout, one for movement control and one for loader and bucket functions. It took some time to get used to that rather than the more common dual lever and foot controls. But judges found once they were onto it, it made operation simple.
The positives
The cab was comfortable with lots of legroom and the lock-up windshield feature was nice, especially when getting in and out frequently.
The multi-function control lever arrangement was nice, but did take some getting used to.
It felt stable when lifting and loading. But it did have the lowest load rating of all the test machines at 1,220 kilograms (2,690 pounds). Breakout force was 2,669 kilograms (5,884 pounds).
Judges liked the easy service access behind the lockable engine compartment, and it had a lockable fuel filler door.
The negatives
There wasn’t anything to complain about with the SSV 75, other than the basic design of a skid steer isn’t as versatile as some of the other machines we tested. But that’s what you expect with a skid steer.
