Editors note: This article has been updated.
John Deere Construction & Forestry’s Commercial Worksite Products group encompasses skid steer loaders, compact track loaders, compact wheel loaders, and compact excavators. With these machines utilized on job sites every day, the company suggests the following when trailering small equipment:
- Prepare for transport: First, park the trailer on level ground, then place chock blocks against the trailer wheels.
- Load the machine onto the trailer:
Compact wheel loaders: Drive the machine slowly up onto the ramp.
Skid steer or CTL: Back the machine onto the trailer, keeping the boom and attachment low.
Compact excavator: Position the machine on the trailer, also keeping the boom and attachment low. Remember when loading that the centerline of the machine should be over the centerline of the trailer. - Lower the attachment and turn off the machine:
Compact wheel loader: Lower all equipment onto the trailer bed. Move the FNR switch to N. Push the park-brake switch on, and turn the key switch off. Install the articulating locking pin. Turn the battery disconnect switch off.
Skid steer or CTL: Lower the attachment to the trailer bed, engage the park brake, and stop the engine.
Compact excavator: Rotate the upper structure so the front attachment is facing rearward. Lower the blade to rest on the trailer bed, then lower the boom until the bucket rests on the trailer bed. Stop the engine.
