Top 100: Cab-Operated Controls

Sept. 28, 2010

A new backhoe attachment for use on skid-steers and utility crawlers has controls in the cab, instead of perch-mounted. Caterpillar's BH30 and BH30 w allow for fast repositioning when digging, provide visibility of the surrounding work area, and offer stability when digging to the front and side. Digging depth is 9 feet 6 inches. The tool can also be shifted manually left or right of center. Side shift length for the BH30 is 33 inches; 39 inches for the BH30 w. Each has 180-degree boom swing, and left and right vertical stabilizers level the machine and hold it in position while digging. Estimated price: $8,000 to $9,000.