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When buying a backhoe loader, it’s important to understand and differentiate between the specs offered with each machine. Knowing what’s most important to you and the work required will help your new backhoe loader be most productive in the long run.

Tip 1: Ask the Right Questions

A few of the very first questions you need to ask yourself when spec-ing out a backhoe loader are: What type of applications will the machine be used for? What type of materials are being moved? Will the machine be roaded or trailered?  How many people will be operating the machine and what are their preferences? 

Tip 2: To Extend or Not to Extend?

The next step is determining what kind of dig depth and reach is needed. This will help determine if a standard arm length is sufficient, or if an extendahoe option is required.

The extendahoe is a popular option because, depending on if the operator is trenching or lifting/placing objects, you want to make sure you have the correct reach for different applications. Ensuring you have the correct reach also helps machines stay as far away from the trench it is digging as possible – important for safety and trench integrity.

The extendahoe option is also important if there’s a specific dig depth that must be met or if you’re handling more work in northern climates. Some Southern states will focus more on the standard hoe length because they don’t need to place things as deep as those in the cooler climates.

Tip 3: Hydraulically Speaking

Next, do you plan on using the machine in more versatile ways? You could consider a thumb on the backhoe or a 4-in-1 bucket on the loader, among other attachments.

It is important to make sure you have the right auxiliary hydraulics in order to properly operate an attachment. Some attachments require unidirectional hydraulics, while others require bidirectional hydraulics. Bidirectional hydraulics to the backhoe flow two ways for use with thumbs, augers and swivel buckets. Unidirectional hydraulics are designed for operating attachments with one-way hydraulic flow, such as breakers and compactors. Some manufacturers offer a method of regulating the hydraulic flow in a unidirectional setup for optimal attachment operation. Take note that bidirectional hydraulics should not be used on unidirectional attachments as switching the flow could damage the attachment.  This is why, if you are running multiple attachments, a combination hydraulics set-up is ideal as owners can then switch back and forth between unidirectional and bidirectional as needed