AssetTrader Buying Guide to Backhoe Loaders

Features and Options

As well as acting as a lightweight excavator, backhoe loaders can also be used as forklift trucks, bringing a unique flexibility. As well many other additional attachments to increase the machines uses. Look out for a quick coupler or integrated tool carrier (ITC) which is used to add multiple attachments quickly.
The backhoe loader can be fitted with forks, grapples (hooks or claws) snow blowers and powered brooms. The backhoe can used for hammers, crushers, and grinders, as well as multi-purpose buckets for lifting, carrying or dumping. Hydraulic buckets are a popular choice. These can all be added or purchased as needed.
What options to look for
For the stabilizer legs on the backhoe, you want to be able to get a grip on loose dirt and traction on the road. You want to look for both grouser shoes for the dirt and rubber-padded shoes for the road.
Four-wheel drive is also an essential. This provides more traction and control on muddy or loose ground. Since this is mostly the conditions that backhoe loaders work under the extra investment for four wheel drive is important.
A sideshift allows the operator to dig a trench parallel to the direction the tires are facing. Providing more manoeuvrability in tight, confined spaces and the loader doesn’t have to be repositioned for every manoeuvre.
Most backhoe loaders come with automatic transmissions these days. Which is very useful for driving from one site to the next, although it does increase the price if you ar looking at older models.