Ditch Witch expanded its line of compact construction equipment by combining features of its SK mini-skid-steers and MX mini-excavators to create a compact utility vehicle similar to a backhoe-loader called the XT850. The lightweight excavator/tool-carrier comes complete with trailer, stands, and enough attachments to handle virtually any underground construction task.
Unlike backhoe-loaders, the XT850's excavator boom is mounted on an arm that swings hydraulically. This arm pivots from a point below the operator's seat so that the excavator can work within a 260-degree sweep even though the operating station remains fixed. The excavator's swing post mounts to this arm as it would mount on a mini-excavator, offering another pivot point that sweeps 130 degrees.
"The XT850's dual-pivot excavator system gives you incredible offset digging capability," says product manager Mike Lumbers. "You can dig against a footing or wall, and dig a number of trenches from one spot without having to move the unit."
Lumbers says the excavator boom's performance range (dig depth, loading height, reach) is similar to a 1.5-ton mini-excavator's. The 3,980-pound unit's operating capacity (at half of its tipping capacity) is 1,250 pounds.
Rubber tracks are driven by independent hydrostatic ground drives, giving the operator zero-radius turning capability.
"All of the XT850's functions are controlled with two joysticks," says Lumbers. "With the flip of a switch, you can alternate from controlling the ground drive, lift arms, and attachments to controlling the excavator."
Ditch Witch's quick-connect attachment plate on the tool-carrier arms accepts more than 70 attachments for mini-skid-steers and tool carriers. Dual gear pumps provide the auxiliary hydraulic system with a choice of either 6.5 or 13 gallons per minute of flow at 2,900 psi. A 26-hp Kubota diesel powers the machine.
The entire XT850 package—excavator/tool carrier, trailer, and attachments—weighs less than 10,000 pounds, so it can be towed behind a ¾-ton truck and does not require the driver to have a commercial driver's license.
Manufacturer's suggested retail price for the package is $54,000. Suggested retail for the XT850 alone is $33,000.
