How Caterpillar Backhoe Loaders Work

Backhoe

Backhoe loaders are widely known for not only their unique appearance but also their large components which jot out in about almost every direction. And while we can readily spot a huge dump truck coming our way, what exactly are the different components on a backhoe used for? Well, loaders are indeed an interesting contraption, and this is due to the fact that three important construction equipment pieces are all compacted into a single unit. A backhoe can be used as a backhoe obviously, a loader and a tractor.

The pieces of equipment previously listed are all designed for their own particular type of job. However, on the average job site, these components are used by a trained operator to safely and effectively get the job at hand completed.

The Tractor

When it comes to the overall machine, its core structure is known as the tractor. And, in a similar fashion to that of the tractor used by a farmer on his field, the tractor part of the backhoe has been designed to maneuver through the toughest of terrain while removing heavy loads. The tractor has been fitted with a state-of-the-art diesel turbocharged engine, heavy duty tires and a cab that has been fitted with the basic controls for steering the machine. The cab of a backhoe has been designed to fully protect its operator and as a result it is either fully enclosed or it can be somewhat open with a canopy structure.

The Loader

The loader component can be found at the front of the machine whereas, the backhoe has been placed at the rare. As previously stated, they both serve different functions. The loader can be used to perform several functions, and for many of them, it can be used in the same way as that of a coffee scoop or a huge dustpan.

However, this component isn’t used for digging but rather to carry large quantities of material after they have been gathered. It can also be used to smoothen surfaces as well as for the purposes of plowing dirt. And, the loader is controlled by the operator as he drives the tractor.

The Backhoe

The main component of the backhoe loader is the initial backhoe. However, it is used for digging into compacted, hard material which is simply that of the earth, and, it is also used for lifting heavy loads. And, it can also be used for the purpose of moving the material and placing it into a pile on the side of the created hole.

Simply put, backhoes can be classified as a bigger, more powerful version of someone’s finger or arm. And it contains three additional components. These being the bucket, the stick and the boom. In essence it is thought of as your hand, forearm and your upper arm.

The components of the backhoe when connected can also be used in the following illustration as being your shoulder, elbow and your wrist. And, it moves in the same manner and form like that of someone’s arm. Specifically, within Caterpillar backhoes, the booms are bent upward for making digging motions easier in the presence of obstacles. In addition, their design has been made to support extra bucket space when it moves into a curled position with a full load.

Backhoes have been designed with every hole in mind, however, they are best suited for ditch digging.

In order for the operator to use the backhoe, the tractor must firstly be parked and the seat must then be turned in the other direction.

In case you’re wondering why these pieces of equipment are connected together, simply put, the overall movement from one spot to another is done by the tractor as the operator skillfully maneuvers it along with the loader. The backhoe and loader also function as a combination for the purposes of digging and moving material from the job site, and it is even used for filling previously dug holes after pipes have been laid.

The Stabilizer Legs

backhoe-stabilizer-legs

In addition to those already mentioned, backhoes contain two stabilizer legs which have been placed at the back of the rear wheels. These are also important in operations due to the fact that they can support most of the weight while digging is taking place. Without the stabilizer legs, the constant weight would strain both the tires and wheel, and the tractor would constantly bounce. Simply put, the main purpose of the stabilizers is for keeping the tractor steady and they also secure the machine by preventing it from slipping into a hole or ditch.

At the bottom of the legs, there are two shoes which can be used on both pavement and dirt. However, the side containing the grouser easily digs into the dirt where as in the case of the pavement, the surface would be destroyed. So when it comes to getting a proper grip on asphalt surfaces, the operator can simply flip the padded rubber shoe into action.

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