Backhoe loaders are nowadays a very popular choice. Read here five question you need to ask before deciding whether to purchase a backhoe loader:

Hello everybody! Today we are going to take a closer look at some specific equipment and the many questions involved. Versatility, and adaptability to tough environments – these are main requirements for equipment operating in agro-industrial applications. Needless to say, the initial cost of this type of equipment is quite high. Nonetheless, the more jobs you can do with the same piece of equipment in a short period of time, the higher the return on investment you can expect.

This is one of the main reasons why nowadays backhoe loaders are a very popular choice. They are, indeed, very versatile and can be used both on and off the road. However, any business owner or manager in this branch should ask themselves the following five question before deciding whether to purchase a backhoe loader:

1. Do I really need a backhoe loader, or is my present fleet enough?

Obviously, this depends on the type of job you have to do, the type of equipment you already own, and its conditions, of course. For example, a company dealing with the management of green urban areas as well as other municipality applications might easily fulfill the same tasks with a simple wheel loader. However, if one wants to increase performance and quality of the offered services, a backhoe loader could turn out as a wise investment.

2. How can I find the backhoe loader model that best suits for my applications?

Always make sure that the backhoe loader has the right power, digging depth, load capacity and weight to best handle all the jobs it is supposed to do. Generally speaking, it is better to choose a more powerful piece of machinery that is also versatile and able to work in narrow spaces. In many cases, there are specific features such as integral traction, increased load or lifting capacity determining the model to purchase.

3. Better buying a new or a used one?

Several factors need to be considered in addition to the initial cost. Needless to say that used machinery costs less. On the other hand, having brand-new components that are fully covered by the manufacturer’s guarantee is an obvious advantage. Whatever you opt for, if you buy a used backhoe loader, turn to an authorized dealer to be sure that the equipment has been checked and serviced by a qualified technician.

4. Which features can improve my ROI?

Backhoe loaders can be fitted with multiple attachments to increase both versatility and the number of possible applications for which they can be used. There are backhoe loader attachments for many specific needs such as brooms, plows, pushes, rippers, thumbs or hammers - to name but a few. These different types of attachment enable you to do a large variety of jobs. This improves overall operations, maximizes the use of the equipment and favors the return on investment.

5. How much does it cost to own and maintain a backhoe loader?

Equipment owners or managers sometimes decide to handle repairs and maintenance of their machinery on their own. In our opinion, it is always better to rely on experts: companies specialized in maintenance have appropriate tools and equipment as well as trained staff in order to carry out all repair or maintenance operations in line with manufacturer’s instructions. If done properly, the component life-cycle is extended, the resale value remains high, and machinery standstills are rare issues.

BKT recommends… RT 747 Agro Industrial

Industrial and agricultural equipment for digging and loading operations are becoming more and more versatile, sophisticated and powerful requiring strong tires such as our RT 747 Agro Industrial.

This tire boasts with exceptional versatility. It is a multi-purpose pattern  that offers great support for both agricultural and industrial applications with backhoe loaders. Its main features are: stability, versatility and durability. The extra-large lugs provide excellent grip in addition to great stability. The result is extraordinary handling and driving comfort even on rough terrains.

The special tread design makes RT 747 Agro Industrial suitable for many applications on any kind of terrain, changing easily from field to road usage and vice versa. This tire is made of a special compound that is particularly resistant against punctures, accidental damages, impacts and abrasions. The result is a longer life cycle, and not least enhanced productivity.

One solution as a response to multiple needs! Find out more about the many sizes on the BKT website!