Decide if you need a backhoe, loader, or excavator. Backhoes have more power than compact machines but cost less than excavators. The backhoe loader features two tools. On the front, a loader is used to pick up piles of material or push dirt into a hole. The rear backhoe digs through hard earth. You can exchange the backhoe or loader bucket for different attachments: crushers, grinders, or other tools.

1. How to Choose a
Backhoe to Rent
Decide if you need a backhoe, loader, or excavator. Backhoes have more power than
compact machines but cost less than excavators. The backhoe loader features two
tools. On the front, a loader is used to pick up piles of material or push dirt into a hole.
The rear backhoe digs through hard earth. You can exchange the backhoe or loader
bucket for different attachments: crushers, grinders, or other tools.
Decide how deep you need to dig. A full-sized backhoe reaches down 14 to 16 feet.
Use a compact backhoe to dig eight to 10 feet deep. It is less expensive, more maneuverable,
and easier to transport than a full-sized backhoe.

2. Check that the loader has adequate lift height to load your dump truck.
Choose attachments to increase the machines' flexibility. Substituting forks for a bucket lets you
transport pallets.

3. Choose a backhoe with a quick coupler, or integrated tool carrier to use multiple attachments.
Look for stabilizer legs that have either grouser shoes for a firm grip on dirt or rubber-padded
shoes for use on asphalt.
Choose four-wheel drive backhoes for better traction on mud or loose ground.
Select four-wheel steering for improved maneuverability on crowded job sites.
Article: http://www.ehow.com/how_1000127_choose-
backhoe-rent.html
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