Backhoes are one of the most useful multipurpose pieces of machinery available today to construction workers, farmers, and other contractors. Although other tools can be used to perform many of the tasks that backhoes are used for, many people prefer to work with a backhoe. They are compact and consolidate the tools used for separate jobs into a single unit.

Surprisingly, many people who are thinking of buying a backhoe know what they are and how they work without knowing their potential or versatility. Some people think that backhoes are primarily used for digging trenches and clearing debris. Could not be farther from the truth. In reality, you can use a backhoe for a wide variety of tasks.

Using a backhoe for more than traditional jobs

Unfortunately, many people invest a significant amount of money in a backhoe and then use it only for digging trenches and other mundane tasks. That’s fine if you’re laying pipes, planting cables underground, or laying the foundation for buildings and drainage systems. But a good backhoe, with a few accessories, can do a lot more.

If you connect an auger to your backhoe, you can use it to efficiently drill holes for planting trees, signs, and fence projects in a variety of soil types. If you will be using the backhoe to do a lot of grading and cutting on a slope, place a trench cleaning bucket in the rear. If you are a contractor whose job is to repair roads or gas and sewer lines, you will need to get under the cement. You can connect an asphalt cutter to your backhoe to make the job quick and painless. If you operate a fleet of backhoes and other machinery, use pin lock couplers on your backhoes so you can easily change the buckets in your inventory. That way, a backhoe can do multiple jobs. Multiple backhoes can work more efficiently on site.

Buying a used backhoe

If you buy a new backhoe, the unit cost can range from $ 10,000 for the smaller, simpler machines to more than $ 100,000 for the larger machines. However, unless you have a specific reason to buy a new model, you should consider buying a used backhoe. You can find great deals on used backhoes on the major auction websites.

Often times other owners need to upgrade to larger, more expensive backhoes. To raise money, these owners are willing to sell their used backhoes for a bargain. Many of these machines are in good shape, need very little repair, have few hours, and can work perfectly for your construction or agriculture needs for a price that is well below your budget.

If you are thinking of buying a backhoe, think about the possible tasks you can do with it. With some accessories, you can use your backhoe for a wide variety of jobs. You may find additional uses for your backhoe that you may not have considered before. When you’re ready to buy, consider buying a used model through an online auction. You may be surprised at the bargains you will find.