Step 1: Size matching

You can only work if you can get in. This is the first iron rule in narrow working conditions. Before inspecting the equipment, be sure to accurately measure your site. Three core data elements: width, height, turning radius:

Overall machine width: Take out the tape measure and measure the width of the narrowest passage and doorway on the site. The width of the loader must be less than this value, and at least 10-20 cm of safety margin must be reserved to deal with uneven roads or operating errors. For example, in most tunnel-type construction sites, the width of the loader must be strictly controlled within 2 meters.

Overall machine height: Measure the lowest point of the working space, such as a pipe, beam or large shed roof. The height of the loader (including the cab) must be lower than this limit. For places with extremely low floor heights, such as farms or specific workshops, models with a height of less than 2.5 meters or even 2 meters are ideal.

Turning flexibility: Size alone is not enough, wheelbase and turning radius are the key to determining flexibility. The short wheelbase design can significantly reduce the turning radius, allowing the equipment to easily turn around and turn in a small space. This is the core indicator for evaluating whether the equipment can operate calmly in blind spots and corners.

Step 2: Performance considerations

A small body does not mean weak performance. Narrow working conditions do not mean the greater the force, the better. Excessive power will lead to increased fuel consumption and increased difficulty in operation. Generally speaking, the power of a small loader is in the range of 30-50 kilowatts, which is enough to meet most basic handling needs (such as sand, earthwork, and feed), achieving a perfect balance between power and fuel economy.

The steering system is the soul: In a cramped space, the quality of the steering system directly determines the work efficiency. Please give priority to: full hydraulic steering/articulated steering: large steering angle, easy control, and can achieve small radius steering.

Skid steering (skid loader): It can achieve 360°steering in place and is the king in extremely narrow spaces, but the wear on the ground needs to be considered.

Step 3: Functional configuration

A loader that can perform multiple tasks is far more valuable than multiple single-function equipment. Quick-change device is the key: Be sure to choose a loader equipped with a hydraulic quick-change device. It allows you to easily change a variety of attachments such as buckets, pallet forks, breakers, sweepers, wood grabbers, etc. in a few minutes. This means that your loader can be instantly transformed into a forklift, light crusher or sweeper, greatly reducing the overall purchase and operating costs and improving equipment utilization. Unloading height needs to match: Even if the space is narrow, the unloading height must meet the requirements. Make sure that the maximum unloading height of the loader can easily pass over the edge of the truck compartment and hopper to avoid the need for secondary transfer due to insufficient height, which affects efficiency.