Frequently Asked Questions
At Burchland Manufacturing, we build high-performance skid steer attachments and site prep equipment in Gilman, Iowa. From laser graders to soil trimmers and erosion control tools, our machines help contractors and crews get precise results faster. Explore the FAQs below to learn more about our products, compatibility, and maintenance.
General Questions
What does Burchland Manufacturing make?
Burchland builds skid steer attachments and equipment for grading, soil preparation, erosion control, and material handling. Explore all products.
Where is Burchland Manufacturing located?
Burchland Manufacturing is proudly based in Gilman, IA, and serves contractors, landscapers, and municipalities nationwide.
Do you offer support after purchase?
Yes. We provide ongoing support to ensure your equipment performs as expected in the field.
Do you sell directly to your customers?
If you are located in one of our dealer’s territories, we will direct you to that dealer. If you are located in an area not serviced by one of our dealers, you can buy directly from us and have your equipment shipped directly to you.
What is a skid steer grader attachment?
A skid steer grader attachment is a tool that mounts to a skid steer to level, smooth, and contour surfaces. It gives operators fine-grade control for jobs like site prep, driveway repair, arena maintenance, and foundation work.
Who is your equipment designed for?
Our equipment is built for contractors, site prep crews, concrete professionals, and anyone responsible for achieving precise elevation control on job sites.
AGT Auto Grading Soil Trimmer
What is a soil trimmer and what does it do?
A soil trimmer is an attachment designed to cut, level, and finish soil with far more precision than a bucket or box blade. It trims high spots, fills low spots, and leaves behind a smooth, even surface that’s ready for compaction, seeding, or final grading. The AGT Soil Trimmer is built for contractors who need consistent, accurate results on every pass.
What jobs is a soil trimmer used for?
A soil trimmer is used for grading, site prep, leveling pads, smoothing trenches, shaping ditches, seedbed prep, and arena maintenance. It handles anything that requires accurate soil shaping or finishing. Many contractors use a soil trimmer as the last tool on the ground before concrete, turf, or landscaping goes in.
What makes the AGT Soil Trimmer different from other soil trimmers?
The AGT Soil Trimmer trims soil cleanly and evenly thanks to its engineered cutter design and stable frame. It’s built for professional use, so it holds grade well, handles tough soil conditions, and reduces the time needed to finish a site. Its durability, predictable performance, and consistent cutting depth set it apart from lighter-duty soil trimmers.
What equipment is the AGT Soil Trimmer compatible with?
The AGT attaches to most skid steers and compact track loaders using a standard quick-attach mount. If your machine accepts universal skid steer attachments, the soil trimmer will connect easily and be ready to run with minimal setup.
How deep can a soil trimmer cut or grade?
Cutting depth varies depending on the model and soil conditions, but the AGT Soil Trimmer is designed to take down high spots, shave compacted soil, and leave an even finish without digging ruts or creating an uneven grade. It gives operators predictable depth control so the final surface is smooth and uniform.
Can a soil trimmer handle clay, rocks, or compacted soil?
Yes. The AGT Soil Trimmer is built for real jobsite conditions and performs well in clay, compacted soil, gravelly areas, and even light rock. Its cutters are designed to remove material cleanly without bouncing or chattering, which helps maintain a smooth final grade.
How does the AGT Soil Trimmer improve grading accuracy?
The AGT uses a stable frame, quality cutters, and controlled cutting depth to create an even surface in fewer passes. It removes high spots instead of pushing them around, so operators can hit grade quickly and cleanly. Because the soil trimmer levels consistently, it reduces the amount of handwork and rework needed on the job.
What size soil trimmer do I need for my machine?
Choose a soil trimmer width that matches the operating capacity and typical jobsite needs of your skid steer. Wider trimmers cover more ground, while narrower sizes work well in tight areas or on smaller machines. The AGT Soil Trimmer comes in multiple widths so contractors can pick the right fit for their loader and their work.
Is a soil trimmer easy to maintain?
Yes. The AGT Soil Trimmer is built with simple, durable components that require minimal upkeep. Routine maintenance usually includes checking fasteners, inspecting the cutters, and clearing debris. With basic care, the attachment stays reliable for years of grading and trimming.
Can a soil trimmer be used for landscaping or arena grooming?
Absolutely. Soil trimmers are ideal for finishing landscaping grades, creating smooth bases for sod, shaping paths, and preparing riding arenas. The AGT Soil Trimmer leaves a consistent, clean finish that helps create a professional result in both landscaping and arena applications.
LGX Laser Grader
What does a laser grader do compared to a regular skid steer grader?
A laser grader uses a laser receiver and control system to automatically adjust the blade height. This keeps your grade accurate across the entire surface and reduces the number of passes you need.
Can the LGX Laser Grader work on any skid steer?
Yes. The LGX is built for universal skid steer compatibility. If your machine has standard hydraulic flow and a universal quick-attach, it will work with the LGX.
What jobs can I use the LGX Laser Grader for?
Contractors use the LGX for building pads, parking lots, sports fields, farm drives, horse arenas, and general site prep. Anywhere you need a precise, consistent grade, this attachment is a fit.
How accurate is the LGX Laser Grader?
With a quality laser receiver, the LGX can achieve sub-inch accuracy. It’s designed for finish grading where precision matters.
Is a skid steer grader attachment worth the investment?
If you do any kind of site prep, driveway work, or finish grading, a grader attachment can save hours per job. The LGX pays for itself by reducing labor time and improving finish quality.
Do I need a laser transmitter to use the LGX Laser Grader?
You can run the LGX manually, but most operators pair it with a rotary laser for the best results. The laser system keeps your grade consistent and cuts down on rework.
How does a laser grader improve efficiency on grading jobs?
You spend less time checking grade by hand and fewer hours fixing mistakes. One operator can finish a site faster with more consistent results.
How hard is the LGX to set up?
Setup is quick. Attach it to your skid steer, connect the hydraulics, mount your laser receiver, and you’re ready to grade. Most operators are up and running in minutes.
Can the LGX handle compacted or rocky material?
Yes. The frame is built to handle tough conditions, and the blade design gives you strong cutting action even in compacted soil.
What maintenance does a skid steer laser grader need?
Most maintenance is basic: check hydraulic hoses, grease pivot points, and inspect cutting edges. The LGX is built with easy-to-access components to keep downtime low.
What attachments or upgrades can I add to the LGX?
Operators often pair it with dual laser receivers, grade control systems, or replacement cutting edges. These upgrades improve speed and accuracy on larger sites.
XTS Silt Fence Installer
Is the XTS Silt Fence plow able to use wire backed material?
If the wire is preinstalled on the fabric, the answer is no it cannot. The wire will not feed properly through the sharp turn on the fabric fold bar. We do offer a wire roll holder to install the wire backing separately as the fabric is installed.
How deep can the XTS install silt fence fabric?
The XTS installs fabric to any chosen depth up to 20 inches, offering flexibility for varied site regulations and soil conditions.
How does it secure the fabric in the ground?
It “knifes” the fabric into the soil—without folding—using a spring-loaded, hardened-steel coulter. This ensures full-width installation with tensioned ground contact, boosting stability and washout resistance.
What are the hinge and pivot features?
The XTS includes a forward pivot allowing a 40° swing to either side. It also has a solid‑steel hinge with a 1″ pin and compression-centering springs for smooth, reliable operation.
Can obstacles like roots and debris be managed during installation?
Yes. The spring-loaded coulter blade cuts through trash, roots, and tough soils. The unit also has a pivoting design and transport lock to handle rough terrain safely.
What mounting options are available?
The XTS fits universal three-point tractor hitches or skid-steer quick-attach plates. Slide‑offset mounts (72″ or 84″) are optional for improved placement flexibility.
How fast is installation?
It’s extremely efficient—able to install thousands of feet of fabric per hour—making it significantly quicker than trenching or hand-digging methods.
SCX Straw Crimper
Does the SCX Straw Crimper come with a 3 Point Hitch and Skid Steer Hitch?
All SCX Straw Crimpers have a 3 Point Hitch built into the frame. A Skid Steer Hitch is an optional upgrade, as well as a Tongue and Wheel kit.
What does “independent disc pivot” mean, and why is it important?
Thanks to its pivoting discs and spring-loaded suspension, the SCX adapts to soil contours and avoids obstacles. Discs float over rocks and uneven ground, while rock guards prevent debris from being wedged in, ensuring uninterrupted performance.
Can the SCX create smooth, tight turns during operation?
Absolutely. The pivoting discs enable smoother, tighter turns compared to rigid shaft crimpers, boosting maneuverability and speed during installation.
What benefits does the SCX offer over traditional single-shaft crimpers?
Unlike conventional crimpers that lift off completely when hitting obstacles, the SCX’s design ensures only the affected discs pivot away while others remain engaged. This maintains soil contact, uniform straw crimping, and uninterrupted operation.
How does the SCX handle rough terrain or debris?
Thanks to its pivoting discs and spring-loaded suspension, the SCX adapts to soil contours and avoids obstacles. Discs float over rocks and uneven ground, while rock guards prevent debris from being wedged in, ensuring uninterrupted performance.
What disc spacing and working widths are available?
The SCX comes in 6 ft, 8 ft, and 10 ft widths, with standard disc spacing of 8″ (6″ spacing available too). Models feature 10–21 discs depending on width, allowing customization to your project’s scale and soil conditions.
Is maintenance easy? What are the wear parts?
The SCX incorporates rock guards and pivoting coulter assemblies to reduce damage. Wear items include spring-loaded discs and hubcaps, which are designed for straightforward replacement and support from Burchland’s parts network.