Your skid steer is only as powerful as its hydraulic system. Whether you’re running a brush cutter, cold planer, auger, or snow blower, understanding GPM and PSI is the key to getting maximum performance from your attachments.
At Skid Pro Attachments, we design and build attachments that match the full range of skid steer hydraulic systems from standard flow to high flow. This guide explains what GPM and PSI mean, how they work together, and how to choose the right setup for your machine.
What Do GPM and PSI Mean?
GPM (Gallons Per Minute): The Flow
GPM measures how much hydraulic fluid your skid steer’s auxiliary circuit can move every minute.
- Think of it as the volume of hydraulic flow.
- More GPM = faster-moving fluid = faster attachment operation.
Example:
If your skid steer delivers 20 GPM, that’s 20 gallons of fluid every minute powering your attachment’s motor.
PSI (Pounds Per Square Inch): The Pressure
PSI measures how strongly that fluid is being pushed through the system.
- It’s the force behind the flow.
- Higher PSI means more torque, cutting power, and digging strength.
Together, GPM and PSI determine how much work your skid steer can do.
Standard Flow vs. High Flow Systems
Not all skid steers are built the same. Understanding your flow type helps you choose the right attachments.
| System Type | Typical Flow Range | Typical Pressure | Common Uses |
| Standard Flow | 17-25 GPM | 3,000-3,500 PSI | Augers, trenchers, sweepers, brush cutters |
| High Flow | 30-50 GPM | 3,500-4,100 PSI | Mulchers, cold planers, stump grinders, snow blowers |
Most attachments are designed for standard flow machines. But heavy-duty tools like forestry mulchers or cold planers require high-flow hydraulics to operate at full speed and power.
At Skid Pro, each attachment clearly lists the required GPM and PSI, so you can easily match your machine to the right tool.
Why Matching Power Ratings Matters
1. Performance
If your attachment requires more flow than your skid steer provides, it’ll run slow or underpowered.
For example, a 35 GPM mulcher connected to a 20 GPM machine won’t perform efficiently.
2. Machine Protection
Running a high-flow attachment on a standard-flow machine can overheat or damage your hydraulic system.
Always verify specs before connecting any attachment.
3. Efficiency and Fuel Use
The right match means faster cycle times, smoother performance, and lower fuel costs – maximizing your ROI on both the skid steer and the attachment.
How to Check Your Skid Steer’s GPM and PSI
1. Read your operator’s manual or the spec plate inside the cab.
You’ll find ratings like “23 GPM @ 3,200 PSI” or “36 GPM @ 3,500 PSI.”
2. Check the attachment’s requirements.
Every Skid Pro attachment lists minimum and optimal GPM/PSI values.
3. Match or exceed.
Choose attachments designed for your machine’s flow type – not the other way around.
4. Inspect couplers and hoses.
Small or restrictive fittings can limit flow, even on high-flow systems.
Maintenance Tips for Hydraulic Performance
To keep your skid steer delivering full flow and pressure:
- Warm up the hydraulic system before heavy use, especially in cold weather.
- Use OEM-recommended hydraulic oil and change filters on schedule.
- Check hoses and couplers for leaks, cracks, or blockages.
- Keep the hydraulic cooler clean – overheating reduces flow and shortens pump life.
Proper maintenance protects your investment and keeps attachments running like new.
Key Takeaways
GPM = flow speed (how fast the attachment moves).
PSI = pressure (how strong it operates).
Together, they determine skid steer power.
Always match your skid steer’s GPM/PSI to the attachment’s requirements.
Choose the right system – standard or high flow – for your workload.
Conclusion
Understanding your skid steer’s power ratings isn’t just technical – it’s practical. The right balance of GPM and PSI ensures your attachments perform at peak efficiency, your machine stays protected, and your jobs get done faster.
At Skid Pro Attachments, we design hydraulic tools that deliver maximum performance across all major skid steer brands. Whether you’re running standard or high flow, we’ve got the attachment that fits your setup perfectly.
Explore our lineup of skid steer attachments and find the perfect match for your machine’s GPM and PSI today.