Tips for Buying a Compact Excavator

bobcat e35 compact excavator

A compact excavator is an essential piece of equipment for different industries. It helps in different tasks like digging, trenching, and material handling without taking up too much space as its regular counterparts.

If you are managing a construction or industrial project, chances are you need to acquire a compact excavator. To help you find the most ideal kind of equipment for your project, we have listed some things you need to consider when buying a compact excavator.

What to Consider When Looking for a Compact Excavator

Choosing a compact excavator for your project may seem like a simple task. However, if you want to make sure that you find the right equipment, here are some aspects you need to consider carefully:

Operating Weight and Size

The first thing you need to consider is the equipment’s operating weight and size. This will depend on the intended use of the compact excavator. If you are going to use it for a large project, then you need to get a unit that has a larger operating weight. Meanwhile, if you need something that can be used in smaller spaces, then you need to get a compact excavator with a smaller operating weight.

You also need to take into account the size of the unit. If you are working in a tight space, then you need to get a smaller excavator.

Hydraulics and Attachments

You also need to take a look at the hydraulics of the machine. This is because the hydraulics are responsible for the power and performance of the excavator. If you are going to use the machine for heavy-duty tasks, then you need to get a unit with a good hydraulic system.

It is also important to check the attachments that come with the machine. These attachments can make your work easier.

With the availability of different attachments, your compact excavator can complete more tasks than it was originally intended for. This can help boost your efficiency. It can also help you save money because you won’t have to buy additional pieces of equipment just to complete more tasks in the workplace.

bobcat e50 compact excavator

Transportation

Another thing you need to consider is the transportation of the machine. If you are going to use the excavator in different worksites, then you need to make sure that it can be easily transported from one place to another.

Choosing a larger unit might require you to acquire a bigger trailer truck. This might mean additional costs for your company, especially if you don’t have the right kind of vehicle for transporting larger compact excavators.

Ergonomics

Taking into account the ergonomics of the machine is also important. This is because your operator will be spending a lot of time operating the excavator. If it is not comfortable to use, then it can lead to operator fatigue.

One of the greatest consequences, when this happens, is a decrease in your team’s productivity. If your operator cannot last sitting in the compact excavator that you chose, they might not be able to maximize their time working on your project.

bobcat e20 compact excavator interior

Tracks

The tracks of the compact excavator are also important. These will determine the stability and traction of the machine. If you are going to use the excavator on a construction site, then you need to get a unit with good tracks.

There are two types of tracks that you can choose from—steel and rubber. Most of the time, compact excavators are equipped with rubber tracks, which allow them to minimize surface damage when moving. It makes this type of equipment ideal for residential, street, and indoor applications.

Undercarriage

The undercarriage is another thing you need to take a look at when choosing a compact excavator. If you are going to use the machine in tough terrain, then you need to get a unit with a strong undercarriage.

There are different types of undercarriages available in the market. You need to choose the one that is most suitable for the terrain where you will be using the machine.

It’s also best to look for a unit with an undercarriage that’s easy to clean and maintain. This will allow you to take care of your equipment better without needing professional help.

bobcat e55 compact excavator

Additional Features

When choosing a compact excavator, you also need to take into account the additional features that come with the machine. These features can make your work easier and more efficient.

Some of the most common additional features include GPS, auto-digging, wireless control, and blade positioners. If you think that these features will be beneficial for your project, then you need to get a unit that has them.

Dealer

Lastly, you need to find a dealer that you can trust. This is important because you will be dealing with this person or company for the purchase, maintenance, and repairs of your compact excavator.

You need to find a dealer that’s reliable and has a good reputation. You can ask your friends, colleagues, or relatives for recommendations. Once you have a list of potential dealers, you can then start narrowing down your options.

To help you with your search, you should work with us at CMI Equipment. We offer high-quality Bobcat compact excavators that can address your needs. For more information regarding our products, talk to us.