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Repair + Get AlertsExcavation Equipment
Ditch Witch MT164
Built to help power and fiber-optic contractors easily create a clean, narrow trench in one pass, the Ditch Witch MT164 microtrencher attachment offers maximum compact cable installation performance. Equipped with a standard hydraulic plunge and option to offset the frame, the MT164 provides variable depth control and allows contractors to cut right up next to a curb. It can trench up to 2 inches wide by 16 inches deep to cut deep enough to get through a standard-sized curb. It can also be set up for a push or pull application depending on the job site. The microtrencher’s compact footprint provides increased flexibility with minimal disruption to surrounding infrastructure in urban areas. 580-336-4402; www.ditchwitch.com
EarthBuster
The EarthBuster provides a repair/maintenance alternative to replacing septic fields. The deep soil decompactor mounts to skid-steers, tractors and mini-excavators and uses a probe to inject compressed air into the ground at depths up to 6 feet. It breaks up the biomat, loosens soil for better absorption, and provides oxygen access to the effluent treatment soil. One or two operators can complete a field in two to three hours with long-lasting results, according to the manufacturer. 406-670-8318; www.earthbuster.com
Hall’s Gradeblade
Hall’s Gradeblades are backhoe or excavator bucket blades that mount in minutes. Simply slip one over the bucket teeth and chain-bind it to the provided weld-on tab on the back of the bucket. They are available in two models – the Crumbing Blade, which is the same width as the bucket for top grading or smoothing the bottom of a trench; or the Squeegee Blade, which is wider than the bucket, with angled wings for greater surface grading. They help reduce backfill time, leaving no teeth marks, eliminating the need to rake, shovel, spread or compact. They are available for buckets 12 to 36 inches. 800-214-1649; www.gradeblade.com
Takeuchi TB350R Series 3
Takeuchi’s TB350R Series 3 compact excavator has a short tail-swing design for working in tight or confined spaces. Inside the cab a 7-inch, multifunction color monitor with touchscreen displays a wide range of functions. A dedicated coupler circuit on cab models allows for the quick and easy exchange of various hydraulically driven attachments. A jog dial controls throttle position and multiple machine functions. It also offers greater working ranges, including a dig depth of 11 feet 8 inches, maximum reach of 19 feet, 10.8 inches and maximum dump height of 12 feet 11.3 inches. Thanks to its high-flow primary auxiliary circuit, it is ideal for multiple applications, including demolition, land/vegetation management, general contracting, landscaping, hardscaping, rental and residential and commercial construction. 706-693-3600; www.takeuchi-us.com
Hand Tools
T&T Tools Mighty Probe
The Mighty Probe from T&T Tools has a 3/8-inch hex rod (approximately 20% stiffer than a round rod) or a 7/16-inch hex rod (approximately twice as stiff as the standard round rod). Stiffer hex rods bend less to make the probe easier to push into the ground, especially when probing at deeper depths. Lengths are available from 36 to 78 inches in 6-inch increments. When the probe is combined with a slide adapter, an integrated mini slide-hammer probe is created, used to pound through difficult spots. 800-521-6893; www.mightyprobe.com
Laser Levels
Milwaukee Tool M18 Red Exterior Rotary Laser Level
The Milwaukee Tool M18 Red Exterior Rotary Laser Level with receiver has impact protection and a simplified setup for the septic installer. It has an IP66 rating and can withstand up to a 1 1/2-meter drop and a 2-meter tripod tip. It is reliable in all weather conditions, delivering 3/32-inch accuracy at 100 feet. Featuring built-in manual masking shutters, the laser can be blocked in any direction on the job site and prevent interference with other lasers. A one-button setup allows for easy application for installers. The receiver will detect the laser up to 2,000 feet and has built-in strobe light protection, reducing interference and downtime on the job site. 800-729-3878; www.milwaukeetool.com
Inspection Equipment
Cherne Multi-Size Big Mouth Plugs
Cherne Multi-Size Big-Mouth Plugs are suitable for gravity bypassing or bypass pumping. A removable tire valve allows for easy replacement, with an optional quick disconnect. They offer a greater expansion range, with five variations ranging from 6 to 10 inches with a 4-inch bypass to 12 to 18 inches with 6-inch bypass plugs. 800-843-7584; www.cherneind.com
Septic Filters
Polylok PL-250
The PL-250 effluent filter from Polylok is designed to handle up to 3,000 gpd with 250 linear feet 1/16-inch linear filtration. It is easy to install and designed for functionality and longevity, according to the maker. The cartridge cannot be installed incorrectly, with no direct bypass, and will fit any standard 6-inch tee. Its W design prevents solids from settling. 877-765-9565; www.polylok.com
Septic Tank Agitators
Crust Busters agitator
The handheld power agitator from Crust Busters has an 80-inch shaft and two- or three-blade propeller designed to mix a 1,000-gallon septic tank in five minutes. Options include 2-, 4-, 6- and 9-foot extensions and a short three-blade shaft that adapts to the two-blade unit. 763-878-2296; www.crustbusters.com
Sludge Sampling Equipment
Sim/Tech Filter TruCore
TruCore from Sim/Tech Filter is a large-diameter, accurate, user-friendly sampler designed for sludge common to septic tanks. It allows samples to be taken quickly without creating excessive turbulence, according to the maker, as there are no restrictions caused by valves, stoppers or flaps. With a 1 3/8-inch I.D., the capacity per foot is almost 10 ounces. The straight-through design allows sample to be easily returned to the tank. The unit is made from a polycarbonate sampling tube (marked every foot) and PVC fittings. It comes as a single-piece, 8-foot unit or as two 4-foot units that slip together. Custom sizes and configurations are available. A simple and customizable extension kit is available for deeply buried tanks. 888-999-3290; www.simtechfilter.com
