Backhoe loaders continue to offer end-users the kind of versatility that leads to solid utilization rates in many applications, and manufacturers continually refine their products with features designed to help reign-in operating costs.
“Managers should be closely monitoring their fleets with telematics to verify how much idle time is being put on their machines,” says Ed Brenton, product manager, Case backhoe loaders. “Turning off a machine, even for a short amount of time, can help reduce unnecessary fuel/fluid costs and wear on engine components. It may also give them an idea of how hard the machine is working throughout the day, which could clue them in to whether or not they need a bigger or smaller machine on the job site, or perhaps change how their job site is set up.
“For example, if they’re noticing a lot of excessive roading on their job sites, they may benefit from moving their stockpiles closer to where they’re being utilized,” Brenton says.
A number of backhoe loader manufacturers offer managers features specifically designed to help them control fuel burn.
“Outside of labor, typically the largest operating cost is fuel,” says Brian Hennings, product marketing manager, Deere backhoe loaders. “A basic fuel-saving tip includes keeping idle time at a mini mum by shutting off engines when possible. Backhoes have been observed running extended idle in between job site tasks, or for HVAC needs. Minimizing engine run time also helps keep warranty hours low and improves residual values over time.”
Hennings says choosing a backhoe loader with auto idle can help.
“Auto idle reduces engine speed when rear backhoe hydraulics aren’t in use, and auto shutdown turns off the engine after an operator-selected period of inactivity,” he says.
“In general, if you need a backhoe, or if your budget was already put in place to replace a machine, those activities are still taking place,” Brenton says. “All other major equipment investments seem to be slowed for now.”
Deere’s Hennings seems to borrow from his company’s earnings statements as he assesses the backhoe loader market.
“The U.S. and Canadian backhoe market has seen some strong head winds so far in 2020,” he says. “Similar to other construction-related areas, new backhoe sales had slowed with the uncertainty of the duration and economic impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.”
Cat’s Adams, however, is more optimistic.
“We have experienced market improvement year over year and anticipate that to continue,” he says. “We’re confident that the industry is healthy, and we are well positioned to continue to meet market demand with new products to support our dealers and customers.”
Kubota says it has seen market-share growth.
“We continue to see growth in market share due to a number of industry factors,” Baker says. “Kubota has seen significant growth in the rental market from both large and small rental fleet companies, where a novice ‘weekend warrior’ can rent a backhoe to complete projects around the house.”
