Sometimes you have to destroy before you begin to build. Hydraulic breakers are powerful, labor-saving devices for compact utility loaders that can quickly smash concrete into dust before you tackle your next project.

When selecting a breaker, it’s important to match the attachment’s hydraulic requirements to the compact loader. Hydraulic breakers can only work within a certain range of hydraulic flows and pressures. Typical flow ranges may be from 7 to 13 gpm or 9 to 15 gpm (each manufacturer is different). This allows for consistent machine-to-breaker performance. Ask about different breaker tools, as manufacturers offer numerous options. Breaker tools consist of breaking/penetrating tools (nail points and moil points are the most common to break through the material), various chisels (help fracture the concrete in line with the chisel or in the case of an asphalt chisel they act like a knife), blunt points (which break large chunks and rocks) and tamping pads (that act like a plate compactor to compact base material such as sand or gravel). These options cost about $300 to $600.

Breakers require more time than other compact utility loader attachments for routine inspections before operating. That’s because of the force and vibration hydraulic breakers produce and sustain. It’s important to check connection points between the attachment and loader. It’s also necessary to make sure hydraulic hoses are routed properly and are out of harm’s way. Also, closely inspect the tool point for wear and check the manufacturer’s operation and maintenance manual for specifics.

Some basic operating tips include: 1) slowly operate breakers in cold climates and allow breakers to rise to their operating temperature; 2) break material in a pattern and avoid prying it; 3) avoid dry firing, which is caused from a lack of pressure on the shank; 4) grease the breaker shank twice daily or at least every four hours; and 5) prying is one of the most common mistakes with breaker operators -- excessive prying will damage the breaker and reduce its service life.

Hydraulic breaker attachments for compact utility loaders cost approximately between $4,000 to $6,000 depending on the impact energy class of the breaker and various mounting options. Note: Some manufacturers require a special applications kit when operating a hydraulic breaker.

- By Justin Odegaard, Bobcat attachment product representative.