Backhoe Loader Purchasing Guide

The concept of a backhoe loader, or as commonly termed backhoe, was perceived about 7 decades back by an excavator supplier company in Massachusetts. It is generally a tractor with a sizeable loader bucket mounted at the front that has a capacity of carrying an approximate weight of 8,760 pounds. Backhoe loaders are designed to serve multiple purposes like landscaping, digging holes, minor demolitions, construction, paving roads and breaking asphalt. A second digging bucket is set on the rear of the equipment pieces that can successfully dig up to a depth of about 15 feet with an approximate reach of somewhere below 26 feet.

Basic Questions to Ask Before Purchasing a Backhoe Loader

It is one thing to be aware of the efficiency of a backhoe, while purchasing one is a completely different game. However, before you take the dive and purchase the equipment, there are some basic questions that you need to ask yourself:

Is One Needed Right Now?

Based on the way you want to use the loader and the nature of your job, one of the most vital questions that need to be asked is if you need to purchase the equipment right away, or if renting one might work. In case you need the equipment for merely 20% to 30% of the onsite work or if the work requires the use of an excavator extensively, you might not want to buy a backhoe loader. These machines are quite expensive and involves spending a modest amount on storage and maintenance. So, it is important that you have a clarity about the work that you have at hand, and whether it is worth buying a backhoe loader. Sometimes it might just be logical to rent one.

New Vs Old: The Better Option

Once you have decided that you do need to buy the equipment from a backhoe loader supplier, the next question is whether you should buy a brand-new machine or settle for a used old one. If you plan on buying a new backhoe, settling for one from Gainwell CAT is a great option! Pick the make of the equipment based on the use or requirement at hand, as opposed to what is accessible. New high-end machines usually come at a price that should be paid only if necessary. If the work that you have at hand is quite basic, a well-maintained old backhoe will get the work done at a cheaper price.

Keeping Up the Earning Potential

In case you decide to purchase a backhoe, new or old, the earning potential of the equipment is the next thing to consider. Is there enough work for the equipment to recover its value for purchase? It makes no sense spending on something that you cannot use to its potential. Make sure that the earnings are on the positive side after deductions for maintenance, storage, driver fees and fuel.

Specifications and Features to Consider

The specifications and features of a backhoe need to be accessed against the project that you have at hand. You need to make sure that your loader can take care of your tasks powerfully. You will generally want to pick model that has maximum power and efficiency, but is solid enough to manoeuvre tight spaces. To find the right model, try taking the following into consideration:

• • Bucket Capacity

  Determine the kind of materials that will be loaded and in what quantities. Make sure that the capacity of your bucket is at par with the project type at hand.

• • Digging Depth

  How deep do you need to dig? Based on the task, a standard boom might just be fine. However, having a protracted dipper helps add about 3 to 4 feet, in case you might have to dig deeper.

• • Horsepower

  Higher horsepower does not necessarily mean better. In fact, the higher the horsepower, the greater the expense to keep the loader running. Gainwell CAT, a backhoe loader supplier, has different variants of backhoes, with more fuel-efficient, compact models utilizing lower hp. Determine the weight that must be carried and settle for the lowest possible hp. Ensure that the machine can manage to carry the weight while increasing efficiency and getting maximum returns for the price paid.

• • Operating Weight

  Like your bucket capacity, it is best you do not surpass the highest operating weight for your backhoe loader. So, try and be specific about the kind of excavation work you will use the backhoe for. If you are about to use it for some odd jobs, you might get away with a more compact version with low maximum weight. However, if you are scheduled to work in tough conditions or a rough terrain, get hold of a high maximum capacity, to prevent overloading the equipment.

How to Choose the Right Model for Your Backhoe Loader

Backhoe loaders can broadly be split into kinds – side-shift and centre-mount.

• i. Side-Shift Backhoes

  Side-shift backhoes are capable of moving from one side to another, as opposed to being completely fixed in the centre. They can even be extended vertically. The stabilizers extend from the sides that allows the loader to tightly manoeuvre in limited spaces, even with other structures around.

• ii. Centre Mount Backhoes

  Commonly known as “centre pivot” backhoes, centre mounts lock the backhoe in the centre section of the rear to prevent any movement. The stabilizers fall in a wider stance compared to a side-shift backhoe loader, adding to its height with a strong centre of gravity. This stance gives the backhoe an advantage in terms of stability while working in steep terrain with heavy loads.

Which Design Should I Select?

Selecting between a side-shift or centre mount solely depends on the kind of work that needs to be performed. Generally, centre mount backhoes are used for wide-ended construction work and farming, and less for roadways or landscaping. On the other hand, side-shift loaders are used of landscaping and roadways. So, choose the backhoe loader based on the kind of work you are invested in.

Conclusion

Before you purchase any kind of equipment, used or new, make sure that you are purchasing it from a certified dealer. This ensures great after-sale service, value for money and product authenticity. As a certified Caterpillar excavator supplier and backhoe loader supplier, Gainwell CAT is here to help you grab hold of the best-suited backhoe loader for the money you invest. For additional help, please feel free to reach out to our team at (Phone number)