Scissor lifts are essential equipment in various industries, from construction to maintenance. However, without proper care and attention, they can encounter issues that lead to costly repairs, downtime, or even accidents. Knowing the most common problems and how to avoid them can keep your equipment in top condition and ensure a longer lifespan.

If you are looking for a telehandler for sale, this ultimate guide to telehandlers can help you save time and money.

A telescopic handler, or telehandler, is a heavy-duty hybrid of a crane and a forklift. These hydraulic lifts are extremely useful and common in the agricultural sector for moving large hay bales. They also have hundreds of applications in manufacturing, shipping and construction sites. Here’s a handy at-a-glance guide that explains everything you’ve ever wanted to know about telehandlers.

Ultimate Guide To Telehandlers

What to Look for When Buying a Used Telehandler

A new telehandler in 2021 can run as high as $140,000, depending on the make, model and application. That’s why it is so attractive to try to find a used telehandler for a lower purchase price. Here are some things to inspect when buying a used telehandler:

Check the Mechanical Systems

This includes the engine, drive train, hydraulics, brakes and steering.

• Check the engine for leaks and check for signs of leakage on the ground beneath the machine. Inspect seals and gaskets for signs of wear.
• Check engine fluids to see if they need to be replaced.
• Test the steering and brakes, including the service brakes and parking brake.
• Check the hydraulics for leaks and note any strange sounds when testing hydraulics.
• Check usage on the hours meter and inspect the meter to make sure it hasn’t been tampered with or altered.

Check the Structural Systems

• Look over the boom, mast and frame of the used telehandler. Problems to check for include rust, cracks, bent metal or faulty welds.
• Inspect any fork attachments to make sure they’re the right size for the machine.

Review Maintenance

• Does the used telehandler have extensive and meticulous maintenance records? Look over all the documentation related to maintenance and servicing.
• Check the time between service dates to make sure the machine was well cared for.

Check General Appearance

• Look at the overall appearance of the telehandler for signs of wear and tear. This includes everything from the cab glass to the leather seat upholstery and anything else.
• Check the tires to make sure they’re still in good condition.

Make and Model Information

You might find a telehandler for sale that has a great price, only to discover that the model is no longer serviced by the manufacturer. An older telehandler can sometimes be difficult to find parts for, if it is no longer in service. The older a machine is, the less likely you will be able to find a service technician to make repairs.

How Much Does it Cost to Buy a Telehandler?

As of 2021, a new telehandler can cost between $70,000 to $140,000. The lift capacity of the machine is the main factor in determining the cost of a new telehandler. A telehandler with a lift capacity of 5,000 to 7,000 pounds can cost between $70,000 and $80,000; a telehandler with a lift capacity of 11,000 pounds or more can range from $125,000 to $140,000.

A used telehandler will likely sell for anywhere between $15,000 and $60,000. The price of a used telehandler is impacted by the number of hours of operation, condition of the machine and its lift capacity. Prices will obviously vary between different manufacturers.

How Many Hours Does a Telehandler Last?

It’s not uncommon for a telehandler to run at low RPMs for much of its lifespan, so these machines can be used for a lot of hours before they need an engine rebuild. If routine maintenance is carried out on schedule and the machine is used for normal operations, the engine can last up to 10,000 hours. In more harsh applications, where the telehandler is running 24 hours a day and taking a beating, the engine could last about 5,000 hours before needing a rebuild.

Is It Worth Buying a Telehandler?

This depends on how much a company plans to use the telehandler and some other factors. If you only need a telehandler during peak seasons — such as moving extra warehouse merchandise during the holidays — then it will probably be cheaper to rent a telehander for a few weeks out of the year.

Renting a telehandler does have a higher long-term cost than purchasing a telehander outright. Rental and leasing companies will also charge you a penalty for overuse, if you operate the telehandler for more hours than specified in the contract. You also have to consider that a rented or leased telehandler is not an asset that your company owns. When you buy a telehandler, you can use it as an asset to borrow against, or you have the option to resell it.

Buying a telehandler is a better option if you need it for long-term, year-round applications. Renting is the better option for short-term jobs or applications.

How Much Does it Cost to Rent a Telehandler?

If you plan to rent a telehandler, the daily cost of the machine will depend on its lifting capacity and how far the boom can reach. The price can also be impacted by any equipment insurance that is required by the rental company. Here are some average telehandler daily rental prices from 2020 to give you a sense of how the pricing works:

• 5,000 – 6,000 lbs. capacity, 19 – 36 ft. boom: $200 – $800
• 6,000 – 8,000 lbs. capacity, 42 ft. boom: $250 – $900
• 9,000 – 10,000 lbs. capacity, 42 – 45 ft. boom: $350 – $1,350
• 10,000 – 12,000 lbs. capacity, 55 ft. boom: $400 – $1,850
• 15,000 – 20,000 lbs. capacity, 44 ft. boom: $800 – $4,200

Telehandlers can be rented on a daily, weekly or monthly basis from most rental companies. The price per day is reduced when renting a machine for longer periods of time. Again, note that prices will vary between different rental companies and manufacturers of telehandlers.

Operate a Telehandler Safely

Any type of large construction equipment with moving parts, including a telehandler, can be dangerous to an untrained operator or other workers on your jobsite. The ANSI A92.24 requires all operators, supervisors and non-operator occupants of a telehandler must be trained in the proper use of the machinery, in order to avoid injury or death.

Here are some guidelines required for the safe operation of a telehandler:

• Inspect the work area before starting up a telehandler. This includes the ground where the telehandler will be moving around, and the space above and below the location where the lift will be operated.
• Wear the required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Any worker in a bucket lift must be equipped with a safety harness.
• Keep all tools secured while operating the telehandler.
• Don’t operate a telehandler while you are alone on a jobsite.
• Know the location of the emergency stop and lowering button and how to operate it safely.
• Do not use a scissor lift or any other type of telehandler lift until you are properly trained on it.

Choose the Right Telehandler for Your Job

There are a number of factors to think about before buying or renting a telehandler. You need to know whether you want a fixed or rotating telehandler, the load capacity and height that it can handle, and whether it needs to be used for multiple different kinds of jobs.

Fixed vs. Rotating

A fixed telehandler has a stationary cab and a telescoping boom lift. Fixed telehandlers are more mobile, and a better choice if you need to move materials a large distance across a jobsite.

On a rotating telehandler, both the cab and the boom lift can rotate up to 360 degrees. A rotating telehandler also has stabilizers that help prevent it from tipping over. Rotating telehandlers have extreme maneuverability within a confined space. They take up a lot less space on a job site, because they tend to be parked in one location for use.

Load Capacity and Height

Rental telehandlers come in different sizes based on load capacity and the height that the boom can lift materials:

• Super Compact: Similar to a forklift, but with much more versatility due to the variety of attachment types.
• Compact: Can reach approximately 30 feet and lift up to 8,000 pounds.
• Standard Telehandler: Height range of 18 to 32 feet with a heavier lifting capacity.
• High Lift: Can reach approximately 50 feet in height while lifting up to 8,000 pounds. Designed for those really hard-to-reach locations.
• High Load: 30-foot lift with an even heavier weight capacity.

Multi-Use Attachments

Telehandlers have a wide range of different attachments for the lift. This makes the machines extremely versatile. You might even need different types of attachments on a single job site:

• Buckets
• Elevated work platforms
• Truss booms
• Lift hooks
• Forks
• Pipe grapples
• Augurs

What Do People Use Telehandlers For?

The sky is the limit when it comes to the many uses for a telehandler. If you own a telehandler, here are some of many applications for this versatile piece of equipment:

Handling Materials

Moving heavy materials from Point A to Point B is the primary function of a telehandler. These machines are used on farms, on construction sites, in warehouses, and many other work sites for lifting and transporting heavy materials.

Elevated Positioning

If you need personnel to be positioned high above the ground, a telehandler‘s boom is a safe and efficient way to do it. Workers lifted on a telehandler can work on utility poles, paint buildings, clean walls and ceilings, or access hard-to-reach places on a jobsite without carrying all their tools and materials up a ladder.

Plowing Snow

Attach a snow bucket or plow to the front of a telehandler, and it can plow roads or a jobsite to keep production moving along, even during the winter months.

Sanitation Jobs

Telehandlers are extremely useful tools for sanitation and recycling centers. The attachments can be swapped out for different uses, such as buckets for packing waste materials, hooks for towing materials, blades for plowing, and much more.

How Do I Move a Telehandler to My Jobsite?

If you are renting a used telehandler, the rental company will typically deliver it to your jobsite. If you found a telehandler for sale and purchased it, you will likely have to transport it yourself, using either a flatbed trailer or a tractor truck. Here are some steps to follow when moving a telehandler to your jobsite:

1. Weigh the telehandler and ensure that it is within the maximum capacity for the trailer or tractor truck. Make sure the length of the trailer is adequate as well.
2. Drive the telehandler onto the trailer in reverse, with the forks pointed away from the cab of the transport vehicle. Center the vehicle on the trailer and chock the wheels, so it can’t roll during transport.
3. For gas- or diesel-powered telehandlers, ensure that the fuel tank is secure and the cap is on firmly. For propane-operated machines, disconnect and remove the propane tank. If it’s an electric telehandler, ensure that the battery is fully charged before transport. Disconnect the battery terminal before transport as well.
4. Secure the telehandler with chains and comealongs. You need at least four anchor points, one at each corner of the trailer, with two chains at each corner. Tighten the chains down securely with comealongs.
5. Check height clearance for the telehandler and plan your transport route accordingly. Depending on the height of the telehandler under the cab of the tractor truck, you may need to avoid driving under bridges or overpasses.

This article was originally published in July of 2021 and updated in September 2024.

Mini skid steers, also known as mini skid loaders or compact utility loaders, have emerged as versatile powerhouses, capable of tackling a wide range of tasks with ease. From landscaping projects to snow removal, mini skid steers can assist with various projects. If you’re looking for a compact, yet robust solution for your projects, a mini skid steer may be right for you!

There are several manufacturers of mini skid steers, each offering a range of models with various features and capabilities. Below are some well-known manufacturers of mini skid steers:

Mini skid steers are versatile pieces of construction and landscaping equipment used for various tasks. With the necessary attachment, here are some common uses for mini skid steers:

Excavation: Mini skid steers can dig trenches, excavate small areas, and handle grading tasks.

Landscaping: Mini skid steers are often employed for landscaping projects, including grading, leveling, and creating smooth surfaces for lawns or gardens. They can also be used for tasks like digging holes for plants and trees.

Material Handling: Mini skid steers can be equipped with buckets, forks and grapples to transport materials such as soil, gravel, mulch, and debris within construction sites or landscaping projects.

Construction: They can assist in small-scale construction tasks like moving and placing building materials, as well as digging foundations and utility trenches.

Snow Removal: Attachments like snow blowers and plows turn mini skid steers into efficient snow removal machines, ideal for clearing driveways, sidewalks, and small parking lots.

DIY Projects: Homeowners and DIY enthusiasts often use mini skid steers for various tasks around the property, from excavation and landscaping to small construction and maintenance projects.

Accessing Tight Spaces: The compact size and maneuverability of mini skid steers make them suitable for working in confined spaces, urban areas, and locations with limited accessibility.

Mini skid steers are used on farms, nurseries, landscaping jobs, construction sites and more. The variety of attachments and configurations of mini skid steers mean that there are a lot of uses for these machines. Here are some of the most common uses:

• Mow thick grass and brush with a flail attachment
• Move logs with a grapple attachment
• Move and pile hay with a fork attachment
• Materials handling with a bucket or forklift attachment
• Digging holes with an augur attachment
• Plow snow with a plow attachment

As you can see, with the right attachments, a mini skid steer is a true little workhorse that save workers from a lot of heavy lifting, and carry out a huge variety of tasks on a worksite.

When choosing mini skid steer to purchase, it is important understand which tire type will help you get your job done most efficiently. A wheeled mini skid steer is ideal for work on level surfaces, such as hard-packed dirt, asphalt or concrete. Tracked mini skid steers, due to their border weight distribution, do not sink into soft surfaces. This makes tracked mini skid steers ideal for wet, muddy or snow ground, loose gravel and loose sand.

Along with tire type, here are some other factors to keep in mind when choosing the right mini skid steer for you:

• Size & Capacity
• Attachments & Compatibility
• Engine Power
• Operating Capacity & Lift Height
• Size & Maneuverability
• Brand Reputation
• Price
• Warranty & Support

Mini Skid Steers are versatile machines and they can be equipped with a wide range of attachments to perform various tasks. The availability of attachments may vary depending on the manufacturer and model of your mini skid steer, but here are some common attachments you can consider:

One manufacturer of mini skid steer attachments is Blue Diamond Attachments. To learn more about Blue Diamond Attachments, check out this blog post; Blue Diamond Attachments: Reviews, Models & Where To Buy. To see all of the attachments offered by Blue Diamond attachments, visit the Blue Diamond Attachments website. 

Prices for mini skid steers will vary based on year, hours of use, brand, model, condition and service history.

Here are some examples of used mini skid steers for sale through FleetNow:

At the original publication of this article, in July 2021, a used mini skid steer for sale was priced between $8,000 and $12,000, depending on age and condition. A brand-new mini skid steer ranged from $25,000 to $60,000, depending on the range of applications it could be used for, type of track, lift capacity and other features. We can see that the price of mini skid steers have increased significantly over a few short years from 2021 to 2023.

Whether a mini skid steer has tires or tracks, you’re not going to be driving it to your jobsite through traffic. The good news is that thanks to the small size of mini skid steers, they can be loaded on a flatbed trailer for transport to your jobsite as long as you have a heavy duty pickup truck or something similar to tow it. Here are some tips for moving your mini skid steer on a flatbed trailer.

1. Chock the wheels on the trailer before loading the mini skid steer.
2. Back the machine onto the trailer in reverse, so the front arms and any attachments are pointed away from the towing vehicle.
3. Center the mini skid steer over the axles of the trailer. Lower the bucket or front arms of the skid steer as low as possible.
4. Many manufacturers of mini skid steers now make the machines with D-rings built in for chain attachments. Use those with chains and/or comealongs at the four corners, so the mini skid steer is fastened down front and back, and side to side.
5. Double check that everything is secure before heading to your jobsite.

The Facebook group, Mini Skid Steer Enthusiasts, is a place for those interested in mini skid steers to talk about their machines, jobs/projects, mini skid steer attachments and possible problems that may arise involving their mini skid steers.

One member of the group requested to see pictures of the set up other members had to transport their mini skid steers. Below are some of the images that members responded with, showing how they transport their mini skid steer:

A mini skid steer or compact utility loader is a go-to tool for many landscaping businesses these days. The machines are versatile enough to fit into tight spaces, and with the variety of attachments available, they can be used for everything from pushing dirt to seeding a lawn to auguring holes for trees or fence posts. If you’re looking for a mini skid steer for sale, or if you’re not sure whether one is the right addition for your business, we’ll try to answer some of the most common questions out there about these handy machines.

What to Look for When Buying a Used Mini Skid Steer?

If you are thinking about investing in a used mini skid steer, it’s a great idea to bring along your own mechanic. This will give you a professional second opinion on the condition of the machine. Plus, a second set of eyes might notice something that you missed in your own inspection of it. Here are some additional things to look for:

Review the Skid Steer’s Work History

The type of work that a mini skid steer is used for is obviously going to affect its lifespan and the amount of future maintenance it might need. A mini skid steer used to dig post holes in soft, manicured lawns has probably been abused less than one that’s been used to bust up concrete on construction sites, for example. Take the climate and the elements where the mini skid steer has been stored into consideration as well. A machine that’s been left out in rain, snow, sleet or a saltwater climate may require more maintenance in the long run, compared to one that has been stored in a garage bay.

Do a Nose-to-Tail Visual Inspection

Check out the overall appearance of the mini skid steer and look for damage or signs of wear and tear. If you see a lot of spot welds, cracks in the metal, dents in the frame and other signs of damage, the machine has probably seen quite a bit of abuse. Check the treads, the battery and cables, and so on.

Review the Used Mini Skid Steer’s Hour Log

The hours that a mini skid steer has been used over its lifespan can have an impact on how much utility it will have in years to come. Lower hours obviously mean that a mini skid steer has been lightly used. A full-time mini skid steer is often used for up to six hours per day. Knowing this, you can figure out an approximate average of the amount of use that the used mini has put in. Extremely high use of a mini skid steer is going to translate into added maintenance in the years to come.

Review the Maintenance Records

If the previous owner has kept good maintenance records, this will let you know that a mini skid steer has been well cared for. If the machine has needed any major unexpected repairs over the years, it can be a warning sign that you may want to pass on it. If a mini skid steer has had regular maintenance and inspections over the years, it is probably still in really good shape.

Choose the Right Skid Steer for Your Job

A major factor in buying or renting a used mini skid steer is the types of jobs you need it to handle. If you need the mini skid steer for materials handling and lift, one with a vertical lift is the best choice. If you plan to use it mainly for auguring, landscaping or construction jobs, a radial lift will work better.

The type of surface that the mini skid steer will be used on is also a factor. If your worksite is on pavement or concrete, a wheel loader mini skid steer is a better choice. If it’s a bumpy work surface, muddy, rocky or snowy, a track loader is the better choice.

Some attachments for mini skid steers also use extra hydraulics, such as augurs or brush flails. If you plan to use one for those tasks, make sure you choose one with the proper hydraulics.

What is the Best Mini Skid Steer?

That depends on who you ask. If you ask Ditch Witch, they’ll tell you that a Ditch Witch mini skid steer is the absolute best one. If you ask Toro, Vermeer or Bobcat, they will each tell you that their mini skid steers are the best. Honestly, the best mini skid steer for your business is the one that’s going to carry out all the tasks that you need it to.

What is the Smallest Skid Steer You Can Buy?

As of this writing, the model RT-25 from ASV is considered one of the smallest, if not THE smallest, mini skid steers on the market. It’s a seated track loader aimed squarely at the landscaping market with a load capacity of 660 lbs. and a 65 horsepower engine. The amazing thing about the engineering of the nimble RT-25 is that it has a 3.1 psi ground rating, for minimal turf disturbance when working on lawns. All of its competitors are ground rated above 4 psi, giving the RT-25 a clear advantage over every other landscaping mini skid steer.

How Much Does it Cost to Rent a Skid Steer?

Renting a used mini skid steer can be a considerable cost savings, especially if you only need one short-term or for a seasonal application. The features and attachments can impact the rental price, but a mini skid steer rental should average around $175 to $200 per day. Rental costs are often lowered if you sign a contract for a longer period. For example, renting one for a week can average about $750 to $1000 (which lowers the cost per day).

Operate a Skid Steer Safely

It goes without saying that anyone operating a mini skid steer should be fully trained in how to safely operate the machine. Here are some pointers on safely operating a mini skid steer:

• Always wear the proper PPE for the job.
• Mini skid steers don’t have the same stability as mid-sized or full-sized skid steers. Attempting to lift heavy objects like logs or pallets on a slope will cause them to tip over. Compact skid steers should primarily be used on flat surfaces.
• Remember that mini skid steers are there to get a job done more efficiently — not necessarily faster! Maintain slow speeds on the job to avoid accidental rollovers.
• If you need to maintain a load at a certain angle, be sure to use the auto-leveling feature.
• Use the proper size attachments with a mini skid steer. Attachments that are too big can reduce the machine’s operating capacity. Attachments that are too small are likely to break.
• Don’t park your mini skid steer on a slope.
• Maintain the regular recommended maintenance schedule for your mini skid steer. This keeps the machine in tip-top shape, and regular inspections also allow for problems that could become safety hazards to be located early.

Mini Skid Steer For Sale

Click here for used Mini Skid Steers For Sale in the United States.

Vertical Mast Lifts are essentially a smaller version of a scissor lift that are great for indoor use. These compact, low-weight machines can fit through tight spaces and into most passenger elevators. Workers on vertical mast lifts can also maneuver through doorways.

These lifts have precise up and over access, are driveable when fully elevated, and have zero inside turning radius for exact positioning. They have a working height of up to 25 feet and can hold up to 500 pounds. Vertical mast lifts can typically be stored in a location that is at least 7 feet tall.

Watch this video to learn more about the Genie GRC-12 designed in 2008.

Different models can be used on different types of terrain, from smooth to rough. Some units are designed with containers for tools and other materials.

Vertical Mast Lift uses

• Warehousing
• Stock-picking
• Transporting
• Inventory Management
• General Maintenance

How do vertical mast lifts work?

Drivers use platform controls equipped with on-board diagnostics to operate vertical mast lifts. Auxiliary platform lowering enables descent in the event of a power failure. Proportional lift and drive controls provide a smooth ride. Most units include hinged rear covers that allow for easy access to all major components for maintenance.

Who makes vertical mast lifts?

Popular models of vertical mast lifts are made by:

Genie: GR-20, GR-12, GR-15, GR-26J

JLG: 12MSP, 20MVL-EXT, Toucan 32E, 1230ES, E18MCL, E18MML

MEC: MMAE16, MME20, MME25

Haulotte: Star 13 Picking, Star 13, Star 20, Star 26 J

Skyjack: SJ12/SJ16 E, SJ20 E

Genie also manufacturers QuickStock lifts, an expansion of the their vertical mast lift “runabout” line. QuickStock lifts are available in all three vertical mast lift heights, and they also come in retail and warehouse versions. QuickStock models include the QS-12, QS-15, and QS-20.

How many hours will a vertical mast lift work?

With proper maintenance, a vertical mast lift can last about 30 years. In terms of how many hours it will run, a typical scissor lift will only count the hours it’s in motion. While in motion, the lift should last about 500 to 1,000 hours.

What is the Association of Equipment Professionals (AEMP) Technician of the Year award?

The Technician of the Year Award from the AEMP Education Foundation is presented annually to recognize an individual as one of the best technicians in the heavy equipment industry. The award elevates the stature of the career and brings awareness to the ongoing labor shortage issue across the industry.

Who makes a great candidate for this award?

Any technician with at least five years of experience is eligible to be nominated. Nominees will receive further instructions on how to provide information regarding their education, work experience, credentials, safety record and philosophy, innovation, and professional presence.

How is a technician nominated?

AEMP created a free application process for employers and their nominees. First, an employer must submit a nomination for a technician using this electronic form. The employer will need to complete the form with the candidate, collecting basic information including name, email address, and phone number. If a technician was nominated in a previous year and didn’t win, they are eligible to try again the following year.

What is the judging process?

A panel of judges are selected to score the nominees’ applications based on six different criteria and are interested in the thoroughness of the submission. The criteria is as follows:

• 10%: Recommendation based on information provided by the employer.
• 10%: Years of experience the nominee has as a technician in the industry. Any current and previous work experience history can be included in this section.
• 15%: Any education, certifications, or credentials held by the nominee can be listed here. The nominee can also include any history of education and training that enhanced their skills as a technician. This would include tech school, company training, or any education that led to improvement.
• 15% Safety: The nominee will describe how they foster a culture of safety within their organization and ensure the safety of themselves, their crew, and the worksite.
• 20%: Image/Professional Presence. Here, nominees can discuss the initiatives they participated in to positively change the image of the technician career. Local community volunteer work, being a mentor for a newcomer in the industry, and training provided to others.
• 30%: Innovation. Nominees can review any innovative practices, tools, or applications they created or applied that led to an improvement in their work processes. This is a space to show where repair and maintenance practices were improved, and how their efforts resulted in positive change for an OEM, supplier, or client.

What are the benefits of winning this award for heavy equipment technicians?

Winners of the AEMP Technician of the Year Award receive a custom-designed John Deere gift, complimentary registration to the AEMP annual meeting (as well as up to $500 in airfare and two nights lodging), a complimentary 1-year membership with AEMP, complimentary access to the EMS certificate program and exam, and feature stories in EquipmentWorld and Equipment Manager magazines.

Who has won this award previously?

Here are the last five winners of the AEMP Technician of the Year award:

• 2021 – Chase Snyder
• 2020 – David Alligood
• 2019 – John Kelchner 
• 2018 – Troy Freyer 
• 2017 – Lee Manzanares (Privavte Fleet) and Bruce Satterwhite (Public Fleet)

Who should I contact for help?

AEMP Marketing Manager Nathan Florek is available to answer any questions or concerns about the Technician of the Year process or forms. He can be reached at nflorek@aemp.org.

Read on to learn about the backhoe makes and models sold in North America and find units for sale near you with this Backhoe Guide from FleetNow. Backhoes, also known as backhoe loaders, combine digging and moving in one machine. One side of a backhoe includes a loader bucket for pushing, lifting, and carrying materials. The other side is used for digging. Stabilizer legs reach onto the ground and provide support for the machine in unstable areas. Typically, backhoes have a rotating seat so the operator can face the loader or the controls for the machine.

The backhoe’s versatility and ability to include attachments make it a great piece of equipment for streamlining construction jobs. It helps companies avoid buying additional equipment, minimizes storage space, reduces maintenance requirements, and limits fuel usage. Being able to reduce the number of machines on a smaller job site can be essential for smooth production.

Watch this video of a CAT 420F2 and 430F2 Backhoe Loader.

Backhoe uses

The backhoe is interesting because it is a combination of a tractor, a loader, and a backhoe.

The tractor portion is the core structure of the backhoe. It is designed to move across all kinds of rough terrain with ease. The backhoes cab protects the operator while the machine is in motion.

The loader is a powerful scooper that can be used to pick up and carry large amounts of loose material. It can also smooth and push down dirt like a plow.

The backhoe is the main tool on the machine. It can dig into hard, compact earth and lift heavy piles. It lifts and transports the pile away from the newly made hole.

A few areas backhoes are good for:

• Landscaping
  • Digging up trees
  • Transporting soil
  • Moving boulders
  • Digging trenches
• Construction
  • Grading
  • Material hauling
  • Breaking up pavement
• Agriculture
  • Laying irrigation pipes
  • Lifting hay bales
• Logging
• Roadwork
  

How do backhoes work?

A backhoe includes a boom, stick, and bucket to operate the machine. The boom bends upward for easier digging if obstacles are in the way. It also allows extra space for the bucket when it’s full and curled inward.

The two stabilizer legs on a backhoe are just behind the rear wheels. These legs take on a majority of the weight when a backhoe is digging. Without the stabilizer legs, the weight of a heavy load or the downward force of digging into the ground would strain the wheels and tires, causing the machine to be off-balance and bouncy. The stabilizers keep the tractor steady and reduce jostling when digging with the backhoe. They also help the tractor from slipping into ditches or holes.

The stabilizer legs can be secured with a grouser shoe that digs into the dirt for a better grip. The shoe can be flipped over to its rubber-padded side to grip asphalt.

How many hours will a backhoe work?

After about 6,000 hours, 20 percent of engines in 14-foot to 15-foot backhoe loaders require a major repair or replacement. By the time they reach 8,500 hours, half of the components in a backhoe loader have reached their lifespan and may fail within 3,500 hours

Who makes backhoes?

The top manufacturers include Case, Caterpillar (CAT), JCB, John Deere, Kubota, New Holland, and Volvo.

Other brands include Allmand, Ameriquip, Bell, Bobcat, Bradco, Bush Hog, Ditch Witch, Fermec, Ford, International, Kioti, Komatsu, Massey Ferguson, Terex, and Vermeer.

Backhoe Makes & Models:

Allmand: TLB 25D, TLB 35D, TLB 220, TLB 225, TLB 325, TLB 425, TLB 535, TLB 6235

Ameriquip: 6600 Backhoe, 7600 Backhoe, 8600 Backhoe, 9600 Backhoe, 70 Backhoe, 80/80A Backhoe, 90/90A Backhoe, 105 Backhoe

Bobcat: B100, B100B, B200, B250, B250B, B300, B300D, 709, B730, B780, 811, B900, 8709, 8811, M06

Bradco: 3511B, 365, 485, 509B, 511B, 611B

Bush Hog: XD65C, XD65, XD75, XD95, XD95EL

Case: 695, 780, 480B, 480E, 570M, 580, 580 K, 580 SE, 580 SL, 580 SM, 580 SM II, 580 SM III, 580 SM+, 580 SM+ II, 580 SM+ III, 580 SN, 580 SN WT, 580L, 580M, 580M II, 580M III, 580N, 580N EP, 580T, 590 SL, 590 SM, 590 SM III, 590 SM+, 590 SM+ III, 590 SN, 590 SN WT, 680CK, 680E, 680G, 680H, 680K, 680L, 695 SR, 780B, 780D

Caterpillar (CAT): 415, 415 IL, 415F2, 415F2 IL, 416, 416 II, 416C, 416D, 416E, 416F, 416F2, 420, 420D, 420D IT, 420E, 420E IT, 420F, 420F IT, 420F2, 422E, 424D, 426 II, 426B, 426C, 428 II, 428C, 428D, 428E, 430D, 430D IT, 430E, 430E IT, 430F, 430F IT, 430F2, 430F2 IT, 432D, 432E, 434E, 436 II, 436C, 438 II, 438C, 438D, 440, 442D, 442E, 444E, 446, 446B, 446D, 450, 450E, 450F

Ditch Witch: A420, A523, A620, A820, A920

Fermec: 750B, 760B, 860B, 860SB, 960B, 960SB

Ford: 420, 445, 455D, 550, 555, 555B, 555C, 555D, 555E, 575D, 655, 655A, 655D, 655E, 675D, 750, 4400, 4500, 5550

International: 100C, 250A, 260A, 270A, 2400B, 2444, 2500, 2500B, 2514B, 3400, 3400A, 3400DA, 3414, 3444, 3500, 3500A, 3514, 3600A, 3600DA, 3616, 3820A, 3850

JCB: 1CX, 1CX-8FT, 210S, 210X LC, 210X SC, 212S, 214, 214 SITEMASTR, 214E SERIES 4, 214E TURBO, 214S, 214SE IV, 215, 215 SITEMASTR, 215E, 215S, 215S SITEMASTR, 217, 217S, 2CX, 2CX L, 2CX-12, 2CXS, 3CX, 3CX 14 SUPER, 3CX COMPACT, 3CX ECO, 3CX SUPER, 3CX-14, 3CX-15, 3CX-15 SUPER, 3CX-17, 3CX-17 SUPER, 3CX-2, 3CX-4, 3CX-4S, 4CX, 4CX SITEMASTER, 4CX SUPER, 4CX SUPER SITEMASTER, 4CX-14, 4CX-14 SUPER, 4CX-15, 4CX-15 SUPER, 4CX-17, 4CX-17 SUPER, 5CX, ICX, ICXT

John Deere: 110, 300B, 300D, 302A, 310, 310A, 310B, 310C, 310E, 310G, 310J, 310K, 310K EP, 310L, 310LX, 310L EP, 310SE, 310SG, 310SJ, 310SK, 310SL, 310SL HL, 315C, 315D, 315SE, 315SG, 315SJ, 315SL, 400, 410, 410B, 410C, 410D, 410G, 410J, 410J TMC, 410K, 410K TC, 410L, 415B, 500C, 510, 510B, 510C, 510D, 610B, 610C, 710B, 710C, 710D, 710G, 710J, 710K, 710L

Kioti: SB2410L, SB2420, KB2465, KB2475L, KB2485

Komatsu: WA30-1, WB140-2, WB140-2N, WB140PS-2, WB140PS-2N, WB142-5, WB146-5, WB146PS-5, WB150-2, WB150-2N, WB150AWS-2, WB150AWS-2N, WB150PS-2, WB150PS-2N, WB156-5, WB156PS-5, WB70A-1, WB91R-2, WB93R-2, WB93R-8, WB93R-5, WB93S-5, WB93S-8, WB97R-2, WB97R-5, WB97R-8, WB97S-2, WB97S-5, WB97S-8, WB98A-2

Kubota: B26, L47, M62, BX23S-1, L48TL-SG

Massey Ferguson: 50B, 50H, 50HX, 50HXS, 50F, 50HX, 60H, 60TL, 750T, 860, 960, MF34A, MF35, MF40, MF50A, MF60, MF CB65, MF BH3222, MF CB75, MF CB85

New Holland: 555D, 555E, 575E, 655E, 675E, B100 C, B110, B110B, B110C, B115, B115B, B115 C, B90B, B95, B95B, B95B LR, B95B TC, B95BTC, B95C, B95C LR, B95C TC, B95LR, B95TC, LB110, LB110.B, LB115, LB115.B, LB75, LB75.B, LB85, LB90, LB90.B, LB95.B

Terex: 760B, 820, 860 ELITE, 860SX, 870B, 880, 880 ELITE, 880SX, 970, 970 ELITE, 980, 980 ELITE, TLB 840, TLB 840R, TLB 840SM, TLB 844S, TLB870, TLB890, TX750, TX760B, TX860B, TX870B, TX970B

Vermeer: B550, B750, B-780, B930, V9300

Volvo: 616, BL60, BL60B, BL70, BL70B, BM 616B, BM 6300, BM 646, BM EL70, BM EL70C, BL60B, BL61B, BL70B, BL71B, BL60, BL61, BL61 Plus, BL70, BL71, BL71 Plus

Infographic: Buying a Used Scissor Lift

Safety First! Safety Concerns for Scissor Lifts

There is risk with using any type of construction machinery, including scissor lifts. The new ANSI A92.24 standard requires scissor lift operators, their supervisors and non-operator occupants to be trained to help avoid falls, injuries on the platform and electric shocks / electrocution.

To help keep you safe on a scissor lift, here are several things to keep in mind:

• Do not use a scissor lift until you have been properly trained.
• Know where the scissor lift’s emergency stop and lowering button is and how to use it
• Do not operate equipment like a scissor lift by yourself
• Wear a safety harness and required Personal Protective Equipment
• Keep tools secured when you are on a scissor lift
• Check out where you will be working before getting into your lift, both the ground and the space above and below your working height.
• Do not move a scissor lift that is fully extended, and do not move it remotely or from the ground if anyone is on it