A backhoe loader is a piece of heavy construction equipment that comprises a tractor-like unit on the front and a backhoe on the rear. Backhoe loaders can handle a wide range of landscaping tasks, including digging up trees and transferring them to new areas while leaving the root ball intact. They can also move boulders, rocks, and gravel and push topsoil into position. Backhoe loaders are also useful for excavating smaller holes like small ponds and water features.
Backhoe loader parts
A backhoe loader comprises three parts: a tractor, a loader, and a backhoe. Each piece is designed for a specific task. On a typical construction site, the backhoe operator will often need all three components to complete the job.
The main structural component of a backhoe loader is the tractor. It boasts a strong, turbocharged diesel engine, big, tough tyres, and a cab with simple steering controls. The front loader is attached at the front, while the backhoe is attached at the rear. These two parts have distinct purposes.
The backhoe loader’s primary tool is the backhoe., used to dig up hard, compact material, mainly earth, or hoist big objects like sewage boxes. It can lift debris and deposit it in a pile to the side of the hole. The backhoe is divided into three sections: the boom, the dipstick, and the bucket. The backhoe can dig any hole; however, it is best suited for excavating ditches. The operator must park the tractor and swivel the seat around to use the backhoe.
The boom is the lengthy section of the backhoe arm closest to the operator’s cab. The boom may be lifted or lowered and moved from left to right. The dipstick is the second portion of the backhoe arm, linked from the pivot to the bucket that scoops the soil while the boom is hooked to the operator’s cab. It acts as the backhoe’s forearm. The bucket is the backhoe’s final component and scoops the debris that must be moved. A pivot is built between the dipstick and the bucket to assist bucket movement. The bucket is pulled towards the dipstick to scoop up the earth.
Typically a backhoe loader is used to dig a trench with the backhoe and then backfill it with the loader.
The backhoe loader’s two stabiliser legs right behind the rear wheels are critical to backhoe functioning since they bear most of the weight during digging. The stabilisers also secure the tractor, so it does not fall into a ditch or pit.
Backhoe loader advantages
Backhoe loaders are among the most popular earthmoving and construction equipment because they can be used for various tasks and easily drive on roadways. There are multiple benefits to using backhoe loaders, including:
- Multitasking
- Various sizes
- Suitable to different terrain types
- Easy attachment adjustment
- Versatile applications
- Helps in decreasing labour cost
- Safer by design
- Operator friendly
Backhoe loader applications
Backhoe loaders are used for a broad range of jobs, including:
- Breaking asphalt
- Construction
- Digging holes/excavation
- Landscaping
- Light building material delivery
- Paving roads
- Small demolitions
Backhoe buckets are frequently replaced by motorised attachments such as a breaker, grapple, auger, or stump grinder. Often backhoes have quick-attach mounting systems and auxiliary hydraulic circuits, allowing for simpler attachment mounting and more efficiency on the job site. Some loader buckets feature a retractable bottom, sometimes known as a “clamshell,” which allows them to unload their load more rapidly and effectively. Grading and scraping are additional common uses for retractable-bottom loader buckets.
Backhoe loaders are particularly helpful and widespread in urban engineering projects such as building and maintenance in locations too small for larger equipment thanks to their comparatively tiny frame and accurate control.
The versatility of backhoe loaders ensures they are popular pieces of machinery widely used at construction sites and in different agricultural projects.
Why BurGers Equipment & Spares?
BurGers Equipment & Spares provides a complete range of specialised earthmoving equipment, including backhoe loaders. In addition, we provide flawless aftermarket services to ensure the continued operation, safety, economy, and reliability of all our equipment.
This, coupled with industry-leading partnerships and a highly skilled and experienced team of professionals, makes us one of the most trusted suppliers in the South African market.
Contact BurGers Equipment & Spares for details
For more information on backhoe loaders and other pieces of heavy-duty equipment, please get in touch with a representative from BurGers Equipment & Spares today.
