What is a Backhoe?
A Versatile Piece of Equipment
A backhoe is a piece of heavy equipment that specializes in excavating. It has a digging bucket at the end of a two-part articulated arm.
The name comes from this portion of the machine being on the back of a tractor or front loader. People in the US know them as backhoes, while in Ireland and the UK, they refer to them as a ‘JCB’.
While designed for digging, the machine is capable of a variety of other operations through a variety of attachments. Which include:
- Tiltorator—Enables a 360° rotation of the bucket and a 45° tilt
- Breaker—A powerful percussion hammer used for demolishing hard rock or concrete
- Grapple—This multi-pronged jaw-like attachment enables the backhoe to perform jobs like material handling, land clearing, logging, and more
- Auger—A drill attachment that enables a quick way to dig a large hole
With this variety of attachments, versatility, and mobility of a tractor, backhoes can help in a variety of ways on a worksite.
If you own or operate a backhoe and have a special application, contact us!
We can manufacture custom attachments that can make that tricky job a breeze.
Contact Us Today!
To learn more about how we can help, call 847-678-1264 and speak with one of our representatives. They can discuss your needs in more detail and can provide more information about our services, like heavy equipment repair. If you would prefer to send us a message instead, please fill out the form found on this page and we will contact you soon!
How do you Operate a Backhoe?
Training is critical in the operation of any kind of heavy equipment. Understanding the capabilities of a machine can significantly reduce chances of injury or damage. If there are any doubts or questions, always seek advice from an experienced operator or consult the operator’s manual for the specific machine.
That said, here are a few general guidelines when operating a backhoe.
Familiarize Yourself with the Machine
Before operating the backhoe, familiarize yourself with the machine’s parts and functions. Make sure you are aware of its model, make, and its sections.
Understand the Controls
The machine’s controls vary depending on the make and model. If there are questions, please refer to the manufacturer’s manual.
In general, the machine has a main control lever and a stabilizer control lever. Both have specific functions in the machine’s operation, arm, and bucket.
Operating the Machine
When climbing in the cab, avoid moving the controls before the machine is on. Some systems remain pressurized and may move before the machine is running.
Perform all applicable safety checks and always be aware of your surroundings.
You should start the backhoe, disengage the parking brake, and drive it to the location where it is needed.
It is highly recommended that individuals undergo proper training and carry out operations under the guidance of a skilled professional. Heavy machinery needs to be understood and respected to operate safely and to its full potential.
Can you Repair a Backhoe?
Every type of machine needs maintenance and repairs. The tricky part may be finding an appropriate solution. Luckily, we have you covered.
Suburban Welding & Steel offers complete heavy equipment repair services. Even when you cannot come to us, we can come to you!
With our fully equipped field trucks, we can provide our quality services on-site. Helping minimize any downtime to resume work as soon as possible.
Outside of heavy equipment repair, we offer services that include:
- Welding
- Plate Rolling
- Plate Shearing
- CNC Machining
- Oxylance Cutting
- And so much more
When you are ready to learn more about our capabilities, please call 847-678-1264. They can answer your questions and can provide more information regarding our services. You can also send us a message by filling out the form found on this page and we will contact you as soon as possible.
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