Trencher attachments are among the most popular for compact utility loaders. They have the digging strength and rugged teeth to tear into the toughest soil. When considering a trencher, it’s important to first match the auxiliary hydraulic flow capacities of the trencher to the attachment carrier for optimum use. Smaller trencher attachments for compact utility loaders have flow ranges from 9 to 15 gpm.

Once the chain’s teeth rip through the dirt, large diameter augers remove material from the side of the trench and limit the amount of spoil that falls back into the trench. Most trenchers designed for compact utility loaders have a dig depth of 2 to 3 ft, more than enough for most installations. Manual side shifts or hydraulic options on larger trenchers enable you to get close to objects such as buildings or fences without repositioning the compact utility loader.

Nearly every area of construction, landscaping and agriculture has use for a trencher attachment. General contractors use the attachments to dig for underground utilities. Landscapers use them to dig underground irrigation systems. Even farmers may use them on their properties for underground installations. Homeowners are certainly a popular customer for rental stores with trencher attachments. They can rent the attachment with a mini loader and perform many of the same tasks as a landscape contractor.

Chain options consist of: 1) cup teeth that work in most ground conditions; 2) cup and carbide chains that contain both carbide teeth for tough digging and cup teeth to help remove the material from the trench; and 3) shark tooth and cup chains that contain long, finger-like, carbide-tipped teeth that help dig through tough material and pull out rocks.

The dealership in your area can help you determine the best chain setup for your conditions. Properly maintaining a trencher will maximize the life of the attachment. The integrity of the trencher chain depends on the correct tension. If a trencher chain looks too loose or sloppy, it’s often a sign that it needs to be adjusted. However, adjusting the chain so that it fits too tight can also pose both maintenance and performance problems. Excessive chain tension will cause faster wear and horsepower loss. Periodically lubricate the chain with diesel fuel to increase its life and the life of the bushings.

Most trenchers are rated at a 60-degree angle to achieve their dig depth. This provides an optimum angle to dig efficiently and helps pull material from the trench. Move the loader at a speed that maximizes the chain speed of the trencher to achieve maximum digging performance. Trencher attachments for compact utility loaders typically cost between $3,000 and $4,000. With many brands and models to choose from, it’s best to visit with your local compact equipment dealership for a price quote.

- By Justin Odegaard, Bobcat attachment product representative.