As mentioned, compact excavators can be more versatile with attachments such as hammers, shears, augers, trenchers and grapples, mowers, mulchers and other hydraulically driven implements. Pressure, flow and overall weight of the attachments should be considered to ensure maximum performance.
 
“You have to make sure the attachment is correctly matched to the machine,” said Caldwell. “For example, an auger with too little pressure is going to lack torque and be ineffective. Make sure you take the time to properly spec. things out through research and communication with your Takeuchi or dealer rep.”
 
Takeuchi introduced a full line of products through its new Takeuchi Attachment Program that are designed to work with its compact excavators, wheel loaders and track loaders. More than 40 are available, giving you the ability to customize machines to your particular applications.
 
“Beyond the standard bucket and hydraulic thumbs for excavators, common attachments include a tilt bucket for ditching and final grade work,” said Ian Webster, SMS Equipment Sales Rep, Light Construction. “Hydraulic pin grabbers are quickly becoming popular for quick bucket change outs as owners look for ways to speed up work. Breakers, augers and screw pile drivers are also popular.”
 
Webster said the machine’s cooling ability should be taken into account when it comes to attachments.
 
“Can it dissipate the heat generated by the attachment?” said Webster. “If it doesn’t, there are options to add additional remote-mounted cooling packages to help compensate.”

There are other important questions to ask such as should I buy new or used?
 
“Budget is the major consideration with this question,” said Caldwell. “New machines may have less maintenance and repair costs up front while a used machine will have a lower entry cost but may need repairs more quickly. If you are looking for a lower cost upfront and can find a well-maintained used machine, that may be a good fit.”
 
SMS Equipment’s Garry Fournier, Sales Rep, Light Construction said that buying versus renting should definitely be a consideration.
 
“Renting works for individuals and companies that need specific piece of equipment, but sparingly. It’s that simple,” said Fournier. “You can straight rent or do a rent-to-sale (RTS) option. RTS is a great choice for those who have an upcoming project and need a specific type of equipment, but don’t really know if they will need it in the future. It allows them to build equity in the machine and use it if they convert the rental into a purchase.”