Backhoes

This guide highlights general features and specifications of backhoes, a machine bidadoo frequently sells in our online auctions. We have backhoes available from many of our locations across the country including Washington, California, Colorado, Texas, and others.

What is a backhoe?

Backhoes, similar to wheel loaders and excavators, are able to dig up earth, transport materials, and are frequently used in construction and earthmoving projects. Backhoe loaders are composed of three segments: a loader in the front, a backhoe arm at the rear, and a tractor in between. The backhoe arm itself is similar to an excavator arm, as they both have articulated, or jointed, booms with a bucket on the end. However, once the backhoe arm is mounted on the back of a tractor or front loader, the machine is then referred to as a backhoe loader.

Also called a rear actor or back actor, backhoes have the ability to operate on a variety of terrains including uneven, rocky ground. Horsepower on a backhoe can range from 20 to 100+, and their dig depth ranges anywhere from 6 to 15 ft.

Pictured: 2009 Case 580 Super M Series II 4x4 Backhoe Loader

What is a backhoe typically used for?

A backhoe loader is a type of excavation machine or digging machine. They are often used in landscaping, construction, and agriculture projects such as asphalt breaking, snow removal, pond and trench digging, demolition jobs, debris transportation, and planting and uprooting trees.

Pictured: 2016 Caterpillar 420F2 Backhoe Loader

What are different types of backhoe attachments?

Attachments for backhoes can include augers, compactors, hammers, snow handlers, rippers, couplers, brooms/street sweepers, as well as others. When you check out our backhoes for sale, be sure to check out our attachments for sale as well.

What should I consider when buying a backhoe?

There are many factors to consider when buying a backhoe. Depending on the job you need to get done, whether it’s landscaping, construction, or agriculture, there is a backhoe loader that’s best suited for your needs. 

For example, 2WD backhoe loaders are mostly used for landscaping and mulching. Whereas 4WD backhoes are able to work in unstable areas with rough ground, and they can carry much heavier buckets than 2WD backhoes. Digging depth is also a crucial component. Backhoes that can dig 14-16 ft have the ability to lift 5,500 to 8,500 lbs, and backhoes that can dig 16-18 ft are capable of lifting 6,500 to 9,700 lbs.

What is the difference between a Center Mount backhoe and a Side Shift backhoe?

The terms “center mount” and “side shift” refer to how the backhoe arm is attached to the tractor and impact the maneuverability and stability of the backhoe loader. A center mount, also known as a center pivot, features a backhoe arm that’s mounted in the center of the tractor’s rear. In other words, it cannot move from where it’s mounted. Then, the backhoe loader’s stabilizers extend outward, giving the machine a wider stance for additional height and reach.

A side shift, however, is not fixed in the center of the tractor’s rear. It’s able to move from side to side as well as extend vertically. The backhoe’s stabilizers on a side shift extend straight down instead of outward. This allows a side shift backhoe to maneuver in tight or small spaces.

Pictured: 2017 JCB 3CX 4x4 Backhoe Loader with Center Mount

Pictured: Backhoe Loader with Side Shift

What are ISO Controls vs SAE Controls on a backhoe?

ISO controls, or International Standards Organization, is similar to an excavator where the left hand controls the swing and boom, and the right hand controls the stick and bucket. SAE controls, or Society of Automotive Engineering, are the opposite. The left hand controls the stick and bucket while the right hand controls the swing and boom.

What are popular backhoe brands and models?

Some popular backhoe brands include Caterpillar, Case, John Deere, and JCB.

Popular models include:

          •  Caterpillar 416, 420
          •  John Deere 310L, 310K EP
          •  JCB 3CX, 3CX-14 Super
          •  Case 580N, 580 Super N, 590 Super N

What are some general features of a backhoe?

Backhoes often feature Hydraulic outriggers / stabilizers, Bolt-On Cutting Edge, Backhoe Quick Coupler, and more.

For more info on a specific backhoe selling on auction, please email auctionservices@bidadoo.com or call 206.442.9000.