How to Choose a Backhoe to Rent

Decide if you need a backhoe, loader, or excavator. Backhoes have more power than compact machines but cost less than excavators. The backhoe loader features two tools. On the front, a loader is used to pick up piles of material or push dirt into a hole. The rear backhoe digs through hard earth. You can exchange the backhoe or loader bucket for different attachments: crushers, grinders, or other tools. Does this Spark an idea?

Things You'll Need

• money

Instructions

1. Decide how deep you need to dig. A full-sized backhoe reaches down 14 to 16 feet.

2. Use a compact backhoe to dig eight to 10 feet deep. It is less expensive, more maneuverable, and easier to transport than a full-sized backhoe.

3. Check that the loader has adequate lift height to load your dump truck.

4. Choose attachments to increase the machines' flexibility. Substituting forks for a bucket lets you transport pallets.

5. Choose a backhoe with a quick coupler, or integrated tool carrier to use multiple attachments.

6. Look for stabilizer legs that have either grouser shoes for a firm grip on dirt or rubber-padded shoes for use on asphalt.

7. Choose four-wheel drive backhoes for better traction on mud or loose ground.

8. Select four-wheel steering for improved maneuverability on crowded job sites.

Tips & Warnings

• Automatic transmissions are worthwhile for driving around large work sites or to and from jobs. Older backhoes have both hand and foot levers to control the various functions. Newer backhoes have easier-to-use dual joysticks to provide full control.

• OSHA requires backhoe loaders to have roll over protective structures (ROPS). Fully enclosed cabs, called EROPS, have enclosed roll over structures. Try not to tip over and test these!