Installers often work in tight quarters too small for regular excavators. Yet, they can find some challenging work in bad soils or on rocky ground. Compact and mini-excavators are becoming more powerful every year, and now have many of the same features and attachments as the big machines. Here are some of the most recent innovations as described by manufacturers.
Compact flexibility
Case Construction Equipment’s new CX80 excavator is similar in size to the CX75 with one major difference: a center-swing boom. An operator can position the machine along a foundation, or dig directly next to walls, buildings or other fixed objects. Use it as a standard excavator, or swing the boom anywhere within a 130-degree arc for challenging applications. Two arm lengths are available: 5 feet, 7 inches for maximum lift capacity and break out force, or 6 feet, 11 inches for additional reach. The CX80 has arm digging forces of up to 8,610 pounds and bucket digging forces up to 12,792 pounds. The CX80 has a 52-net-hp engine, and a tight swing radius of 5 feet, 4 inches for use in cramped quarters. The standard backfill blade allows an operator to dig a trench along a foundation, position a pipe, and backfill with one machine. For information: 262/636-7540; www.casece.com.
New Track Loaders
Mustang Manufacturing Co. Inc. has added the MTL16 and MTL25 track loaders to its lineup. The units are designed to operate with high stability and flotation in tough conditions, such as sandy or muddy jobsites. Both units come with rubber tracks that enable operators to move from smooth to complex surfaces. A track undercarriage provides flotation for tough conditions and the traction required when excavating stubborn materials. The MTL16 and MTL25 have operating capacities of 2,315 and 3,528 pounds at 50 percent of tipping load and 1,620 and 2,470 pounds at 35 percent of tipping load. Breakout forces are 6,728 pounds and 8,692 pounds. Operator comfort features include a large operator compartment, pilot-operated joystick controls, and a six-way adjustable seat. A tilt-back cab and swing-out hydraulic oil cooler shorten maintenance downtime. The lockable engine compartment and fuel tank protect against vandalism. For information: 507/451-7112; www.mustangmfg.com.
Big machine in a mini
Ditch Witch says the SK650 skid-steer is its most powerful and productive mini-skid-steer model. Equipped with a 31-hp Kubota turbo diesel engine, the unit directs 20-net-hp to the attachment. Fuel and hydraulic tanks are exterior-mounted for larger capacities. Quick-disconnect fittings enable attachments to be changed without shutting down the machine. The foot pedal auxiliary control allows the operator to drive the attachment by foot, freeing up the operator’s hands to control depth and ground speed. A level indicator on the attachment lift frame helps the operator to see from the operator’s station if the attachment is level. For information: 800/654-6481; www.ditchwitch.com.
Tracked skid loader
The Model 1150 TD tracked skid loader from Ramrod is designed for high performance, even on challenging terrain, including swampy or boggy conditions. The tracks allow the machine to go from soft soil to turf to asphalt with minimum damage to the ground surface. The track shape of the unit provides maximum visibility for operators using ground-engaging attachments that require close attention. The unit is powered by a 22-hp Kubota liquid-cooled diesel engine. Tractive power is 1,600 pounds and lift capacity to full height is 1,150 pounds. Carrying capacity is 2,300 pounds and lift height is 72 inches. For information: 306/786-2600; www.ramrodequip.com.
Towable unit
The Go-For-Digger 6L from R. H. & M. Machine Co. is a compact backhoe that can be towed at highway speeds without a trailer. A new boom design with longer reach allows easier loading of excess material. The unit has an overall weight of 2,800 pounds, a maximum digging force of 4,500 pounds, and a maximum digging depth of 108 inches. Loading height is 6 feet and loading reach is 59 inches. The transport height is 90 inches, and the ground clearance from the lowest point is 7 inches. For information: 304/296-7000; www.gofordigger.com.
Large potential
IHI mini excavators are well suited for the homeowner with a yard project to the general contractor with a need for deep digging and high power. The 12 mini-excavator models have digging depths from 5 feet, 2 inches to 14 feet, 1 inch and bucket forces from 2,160 to 14,730 pounds. Choose from three designs with features of the larger mini-excavators: the N for a conventional tail, the NX for zero-tail-swing, and the Z series of zero-turning-radius excavators. For information: 800/538-1447; www.ihicompact excavator.com.
Compact and versatile
The T9 compact tractor loader backhoe from Terramite Corp. has a Quick Attach bucket system that lets users change implements in minutes. A 4-wheel drive option enables the machine to work in low-traction conditions. The unit is powered by a 32.8-hp Kubota diesel engine. The backhoe has 180-degree swing and digs down to 10 feet. The front loader lifts 2,300 pounds up to 102 inches with a dual, front-curl cylinder system. Breakout force is 6,100 pounds. An optional Four-in-One front bucket enables the loader to scrape, load, carry and grab. For information: 304/776-4231; www.terramite.com.
Offset boom
Takeuchi-US has added the TB138FR to its line of excavators. This zero-tail-swing model has a patented side-to-side (STS) offset boom system that allows it to slew 360 degrees, only inches beyond the excavator’s track width. A low center of gravity offers the stability and craning capacities of conventional excavators. The unit has a tilt-up operator platform, full-opening engine compartment, and an automatic fuel bleed system. A control pattern selector valve allows for quick change of operating controls between SAE and ISO patterns. An electrohydraulic push-button and proportional slide switch, located in the left-hand joystick, allows precise control of the auxiliary hydraulic circuit. The TB138FR is available with open canopy or fully enclosed cab. Cabin units are standard-equipped with heater, air conditioning, defroster, wiper, and retractable front window with removable lower section. For information: 706/693-3600; www.takeuchi-us.com.
