The best backhoe loaders for 2022

Backhoe loaders (hereinafter referred to as "EP") refer to the type of hybrid special equipment, whose design, appearance and scope are always determined by specific tasks. In most cases, this technique is a universal solution for working in confined spaces: urban development, yards with spontaneous parking, tight garden and rural areas. Often, the only way to move the machine across such areas (especially in spring thaw conditions) will be the method of pushing the machine off the ground with a bucket and loader (the so-called "crab move").

However, due to its relatively light weight, the ability to replace body kits and additional equipment, low price (compared to equipment with a narrow specialization), a wide range of models, and inexpensive maintenance - backhoe loaders have become very popular with private owners.

The main advantages of backhoe loaders

It is the scope of this special equipment that determines its disadvantages and advantages. In the city, excavators are mainly used for the purposes of landscaping and maintaining street infrastructure, which is often not possible for bulky and powerful industrial equipment (they simply have nowhere to turn around). A small excavator is able to dig a trench of the required depth to repair the plumbing system, and at the same time work as a pipelayer, because.its bucket can be used as a pipe grab. If you equip the machine with a hydraulic hammer, you can carefully hollow out a small section of the sidewalk (without hitting the curbs), and after carrying out the work, carefully bury it and level it. In winter, the machine will be indispensable for snow removal.

Nevertheless, experts note three positive advantages of excavator loaders over heavy equipment - they can be conditionally called "THREE" M ":

• Mobility;
• Multifunctionality;
• Maneuverability.

Among other things, the fuel consumption of this type of special equipment is much less than that of their heavy counterparts. And as an example of savings in terms of using the services of an excavator, the following figures can be cited: one hour of work of a nimble snow loader will cost an average of 1300 rubles in the capital, while its heavy relative Komatsu PC 200 will already cost 2000-2500 rubles .

Formation of the cost of a quality excavator loader

The main factor influencing the pricing of the equipment in question will be the ratio of its capabilities to the quality characteristics of the manufacturer. Here, the Russian buyer often triggers an old stereotype that has taken root in relation to Chinese manufacturers.

At present, China's mobile excavator models cannot be called extremely bad. Indeed, their prices are somewhat lower than those of Western competitors, but before Chinese equipment enters the Russian market, the latter undergoes a rather strict quality control, especially since these machines are not only a complex technical product, but also a source of increased danger.

In general, it is possible to single out several parameters that will affect the price:

• breadth of functionality;
• Ability to work in extreme conditions (for example, low / high ambient temperatures);
• Availability of innovative technologies applied in the design (for example, hydraulic booster of the bucket boom);
• The popularity of the model itself.

As a rule, new samples of such machines are purchased by large enterprises immediately in batches, which leads to the addition of another pricing factor - the choice of a reliable partner-seller. Such transactions always take place in the form of tenders, regardless of whether the buyer is a public company or a private one. Thus, which of the sellers will offer the best price / quality ratio - he will receive the status of a supplier. For the segment of private owners, this issue is more complicated - they have to monitor prices themselves.

Specifications relevant for selection

load capacity

This parameter will play a significant role if the machine is purchased for work in the construction industry. And in this case, it is necessary to consider not only the maximum possible load that the equipment can withstand, but also the time and duration at which it can be used in intensive mode. At the same time, the question will arise about the possible level of wear and tear in the implementation of such work.

In principle, according to areas of application, excavators can be divided as follows:

• The least load will be received by an excavator (EP) working in the field of road construction - for such work, a light-duty machine is suitable, which itself will weigh no more than two tons;
• The work of moving large volumes of soil on open construction sites will require the use of medium-duty equipment (up to 4 tons);
• Equipment up to 10 tons boasts the largest functionality and areas of application. This is due to the fact that such models have the ability to use various interchangeable tools for work (from a bucket to a bayonet loader and hydraulic hammers).

Power units

Almost all models of backhoe loaders use powerful engines that are resistant to industrial wear. Oddly enough, this even applies to Chinese manufacturers who install exclusively American-made motors in their equipment (due to the lack of their own technologies).

Buckets for backhoe loader

The choice of bucket is also of considerable importance for the future use of special equipment. Among other things, for the quick ability to change tools, backhoe loaders fell in love with the Russian consumer. This process is not something supernatural, and you can change the bucket with the efforts of one, maximum two people. The main thing is that the material of the bucket is durable and does not break when immediately replaced after prolonged overloads. Although, the vast majority of models are now made of alloy steel, which generally eliminates such risks. In addition, there are bucket models that can generally be disassembled into individual parts, for example, these include variations with removable teeth. Changing bucket teeth may be necessary when the material being processed changes dramatically: for example, after working with sand, you need to immediately switch to hard ground or even rocks.

Lifting height

Another important parameter is that if the loader is used for road construction work, then the height may not exceed the side of the truck. For other general construction works, it is better to choose a model with an increased level of unloading.

Customer support

As a rule, most Russian dealers have their own service centers in all major Russian cities, which makes finding spare parts extremely easy. Recently, major suppliers have also organized round-the-clock telephone support, where you can get advice on minor repairs to equipment without involving specialists. Repair kits also come with new machines.

Purchase of used models

If everything is quite simple with the acquisition of new equipment, the main thing is to take care of finding a reliable supplier, then the equipment that was in use will require a more thorough study of the issue.

Basic principles for buying new backhoe loaders:

• Reliability and proximity of the supplier;
• Availability of consumables and spare parts in its warehouses;
• Availability of a good repair infrastructure at the supplier.

If it is decided to purchase equipment with an accumulated resource, then in addition to the scope of work for which it is purchased, it is necessary to decide on the following questions:

• The backhoe loader is not supposed to be constantly loaded with intensive work - in this case, the cost of initial preparation will not be required, however, the payback time may be reduced;
• The backhoe loader is expected to be used regularly and intensively - in this case, preliminary preparation of the machine after purchase will be required.

Speaking of the latter case, it is possible to give the following example: an average Komatsu unit in used condition can cost about 3,000,000 rubles. Its initial preparation may take up to half of this amount, however, in the future it may require less attention to maintenance than a new model, thus it may pay off even earlier.

Rules for buying on the secondary market

Verification of the seller and documentation for the equipment:

• If the seller is a legal entity or individual entrepreneur, then you should pay attention to the period of his work in this market segment, check the available certificates and permits, get acquainted with his supplier partners (duration of the terms of joint work);
• Check the passport of the self-propelled vehicle (PSM) - it must be provided by the seller in the original. Of particular concern should be proposals when the proposed equipment is declared as almost new (with a small operating time), but the PSM is available only in the form of a copy (even if officially certified);
• The numbers of units and assemblies indicated in the PSM must completely match those installed on the equipment itself;
• Be sure to include in the contract of sale a clause on compensation for losses if the backhoe loader is encumbered (for example, in pledge).

Checking the technical condition:

• On average, the experience of a loader capable of further reliable operation should not be more than 1500 hours per year. Thus, models older than 2010 should have approximately 15,000 to 20,000 operating hours. If the counter shows less data, then this will be a reason to doubt the reliability of the proposed machine;
• Normally, the engine should retain some of the factory paint, as should the bolt heads and high pressure fuel pump. If the paint has aged or is completely absent, then this may indicate the production of a serious repair of the units. The motor itself should start without problems and “idle” work without smoke and extraneous noise;
• The hydraulics of the loader-excavator should also not cause any complaints and work without extraneous noise, sharp jerks, and the release of lubricating fluid. This applies both to the mode of operation under load, and without it.It will not be superfluous to also measure the pressure in the hydraulic system, for which you should use a hydraulic tester;
• Lastly, it is necessary to check the body of the machine itself - it should not contain traces of extreme corrosion, large cracks and other flaws that can lead to problems in operation.

Rating of the best backhoe loaders for 2022

Light load capacity (up to 2t)

2nd place: SDLG B877

A very common model on the Russian market from a Chinese manufacturer. Due to its small dimensions, overall lightness and maneuverability, it is perfect for simple landscaping or road construction work. However, the equipment of the machine is far from being budgetary, which makes it suitable for use in winter.

Name	Index
Engine, power	Weichai, 70 kW and 98 l/s
checkpoint	mechanics, 4 steps
Bucket volume, m3	1.03
The presence of a crab	Yes
Maximum load capacity, tons	1.8
Presence of a hydraulic line	Yes
Price, rubles	4,600,000 rubles

• Possibility of use in extreme temperatures;
• Increased maneuverability;
• The possibility of a "crab move".

• Interruptions in cabin heating are possible.

1st place: LiuGong CLG777A

This model of light load capacity is designed for simple work in cramped conditions of the city or on suburban areas. The presence of a crab move allows you to make a U-turn almost anywhere. The hydraulic line of the machine is reinforced, the bucket teeth can be replaced separately. The electric motor is equipped with a Chinese-made Weichey engine, but it uses the European Tier 2 technology.

Name	Index
Engine, power	Weichai, 68 kW and 95 l/s
checkpoint	mechanics, 4 steps
Bucket volume, m3	1.2
The presence of a crab	Yes
Maximum load capacity, tons	2
Presence of a hydraulic line	Yes
Price, rubles	4,000,000 rubles

• Reinforced engine;
• Good value for money;
• Possibility of a complete set hydrohammer.

• There may be problems with finding spare parts (the manufacturer does not have technical representatives in the territory of the Russian Federation).

Average lifting capacity (from 2 to 4 tons)

2nd place: MST M542 Plus

An improved model from a Western manufacturer is distinguished by the use of a more powerful Tier 3 engine in the design, and it has increased operator cabin comfort. All attachments (buckets, loaders) are replaced in express mode, which does not require special skills. The guns are controlled by joysticks.

Name	Index
Engine, power	Perkins, 74.5 kW and 101 HP
checkpoint	Automatic, 4 steps
Bucket volume, m3	1.2
The presence of a crab	Not
Maximum load capacity, tons	3.1
Presence of a hydraulic line	Yes
Price, rubles	5,000,000 rubles

• Comfortable operator's cabin with additional options (radio and CD player);
• The kit comes with both a bucket and a loader;
• Installed improved engine.

• There is no possibility of a “crab move”, the EP is not very suitable for working in viscous soil.

1st place: MTZ 92 P

This technique has been produced by a Belarusian enterprise (Minsk Tractor Plant) for over 20 years and has proven itself in the field of excavation and loading operations. The machine is characterized by compact dimensions, while it has an increased load capacity. The model is constantly being upgraded and the latest samples have a reinforced hydraulic line.The price also leaves a good impression.

Name	Index
Engine, power	MMZ D-245, 62 kW and 93 l/s
checkpoint	mechanics, 4 steps
Bucket volume, m3	1.3
The presence of a crab	Not
Maximum load capacity, tons	3.7
Presence of a hydraulic line	Yes
Price, rubles	2 700 000 rubles

• Extremely affordable price for its improved performance;
• High reliability;
• The high prevalence of technical support centers in the territory of the Russian Federation.

• The option for export to far abroad countries is distinguished by increased cabin comfort; such models are not supplied to the Russian market.

Heavy lifting capacity (from 4 to 10 tons)

2nd place: Tarsus-880

This model has been produced by Turkish enterprises Cukurova Makina Imalat ve Ticaret A.S since 2004 and is intended for general construction work. To date, this EP has been modified four times: the carrying capacity and volume of the bucket, its lifting height have been increased, the machine has been supplemented with a loader tool.

Name	Index
Engine, power	Perkins, 56 kW and 87 l/s
checkpoint	automatic, 4 steps
Bucket volume, m3	1.5
The presence of a crab	Not
Maximum load capacity, tons	4.8
Presence of a hydraulic line	Yes
Price, rubles	3,500,000 rubles

• Great digging depth;
• Reliability and endurance;
• Comfortable operator's cabin.

• Low power motor for its range.

1st place: Xiamen XGMA Machinery XG765I

Another Chinese manufacturer that manufactures powerful equipment for general construction work. The model has a reinforced torque converter, which provides a high load capacity of up to 9.5 tons.The machine has wet brakes with hydraulic drive, thanks to which the machine has increased stability on almost any surface.

Name	Index
Engine, power	Kirloskar, 75 kW and 102 l/s
checkpoint	automatic, 4 steps
Bucket volume, m3	1.3
The presence of a crab	Yes
Maximum load capacity, tons	9.5
Presence of a hydraulic line	Yes
Price, rubles	5 500 000 rubles

• Economical engine;
• Accessibility to a repair base on the territory of the Russian Federation;
• Improved equipment.

• Narrow specialization and large dimensions.

Large load capacity (over 10 tons)

Due to the fact that it was the lifting EPs that began to be produced relatively recently, the model range of such special equipment is rather scarce - most users prefer to use either industrial excavators or forklifts, which are gaining popularity, to lift massive loads. However, all these machines are not backhoe loaders in the direct sense of the word. Nevertheless, Russian and Belarusian manufacturers have already noted in this field, who have begun a limited production of models with enhanced hydraulics from the Italian company Mecalac.

1st place: PEF-1BM grab loader-excavator reinforced

Multifunctional and universal EP of Russian-Italian production with enhanced performance and load capacity. It can be applied practically on any works thanks to the additional working bodies. The motor of increased power from MTZ significantly increases the overall performance. At the same time, the EP does not use special staminas as a support, and when working with large loads, it can rely on buckets or a bulldozer blade.

Name	Index
Engine, power	MTZ, 90 kW and 120 l/s
checkpoint	Automatic/mechanical, 4 steps
Bucket volume, m3	2
The presence of a crab	Yes
Maximum load capacity, tons	2015-10-01 00:00:00
Presence of a hydraulic line	Yes
Price, rubles	9 500 000 rubles

• Reinforced construction;
• Multifunctionality;
• Italian hydraulics.

• Not found (due to the relative novelty of the model - the release of 2019).

Instead of an epilogue

It is better to purchase new backhoe loaders from trusted dealers, and used equipment from sellers with excellent recommendations in the secondary market. At the same time, it is better to use Internet sites for purchase when it is planned to purchase a batch of loaders and in this case it is better to contact the manufacturer directly. In the case of purchasing a used machine, it is better to show it to independent experts at the service station before registration, where they can draw up a defect list (which indicates even the slightest scratch on the glass), which will reduce the cost of the backhoe loader. At the same time, it is worth noting that most Internet sites do not immediately offer the real price for the EP required by the buyer, but first they will offer to make an application for the necessary equipment of the machine.