If you are looking to upgrade
backhoe loaders, be prepared to wade through a proliferation of accessories and options employed by manufacturers to “niche out” their machines.
If this is the first time you’ve bought a backhoe loader, know that backhoe’s work capacity is not determined by the machine’s horsepower. Instead, major specifications with backhoes are digging depth and lift capacity.
Whether you are a repeat or first-time backhoe loader buyer, you’ll need to determine exactly what capacities you require before heading to an auction or dealer’s lot because the array of models available can be confusing.
FEATURE DIFFERENCES OF BACKHOE LOADERS
Beyond the extend-a-boom feature mentioned before, working options that boost backhoe loaders prices include:
Four-wheel drive (some times referred to as all-wheel drive). This is now common on backhoes. Figure on giving 15% to 25% more for a loader with four-wheel drive.
Closed-center hydraulics. As is the case with tractors, closed-center systems (that employ a piston pump) provide full hydraulic power at any engine speed.
Pilot hydraulic control system. This feature lets operators easily switch from backhoe- to excavator-control patterns, usually with the flip of a lever.
Cab with air-conditioning. A great many backhoes run with roll-over protection only.
INSPECTING WEAR AND TEAR OF THE BACKHOE LOADER
It’s no secret that construction gear isn’t always as well cared for as farm machinery because the owner usually isn’t the operator. Still, I’ve seen small contractor backhoe loaders whose condition would rival anything selling from a farm.
Regardless of origin of the backhoe loaders, invest your time to thoroughly inspect a potential buy. Backhoe loaders are in the business of excavation, which puts strain on their moving parts and the tractor’s main frame. Look the entire machinery over for stress cracks, broken welds, and twisted frame members — particularly of the mast and loader.
Then, run the backhoe loader to determine if the engine and also the hydraulic system have problems. Backhoe hydraulics are the heart of these machines and are often pushed to their limits while running hours a day, weeks on end.
Lastly, look the tires over very carefully. They are running over varied surfaces often at construction sites that can contain damaging objects. Look for sidewall cuts (on the inside of the tire as well), cracks, and rear lug deterioration.
The above is about when buying a backhoe loader needs to look for.If you have more detailed questions to consult, please contact us in time, we will be able to support you.
