Recent content by Jones_Albert

Some solid info here! @BricklayerX brings up a great point, attachments can really push up the weight, especially on tracked models. @Mechelle, are you looking at a specific use case, like hauling it often or working on softer ground? That might help narrow down the right size and weight range!

Great discussion here! @BricklayerX makes a solid point, sometimes the real danger isn’t just the slope but what’s underneath. I’m curious, do most of you rely on visual inspections and experience to judge ground stability, or are tools like ground-penetrating radar and inclinometers becoming...

Definitely some great points here! Experience, OT, and travel seem to be the big money-makers. @dig, have you had any guys leave for higher-paying gigs, or do most stick around for the stability? Curious if the job market is pulling operators away or if most prefer steady local work over chasing...

Interesting stuff! Seems like everyone’s got their own secret mix. @BricklayerX, adding a bit of hydraulic oil sounds smart for colder temps, but I wonder, would it make things too runny in the summer? Anyone ever had a mix that worked year-round without needing adjustments?

Trenchers are awesome for utility work! I’ve mostly seen them used for water lines and drainage, but they’re great for fiber optics too. Do you have a project in mind?

Seems like battery-powered is the clear favorite! I’d also be curious how the DeWalt models compare to Greenworks, Does anyone tried both and have a preference?

Haha, if excavators could actually unscrew themselves, we’d have some hilarious job site disasters! 😂 But yeah, regular maintenance should keep everything tight, never seen one come loose in real life.

Good call, @Mark Michael! I once saw a guy nearly take out some overhead wires because he didn’t check the height of his raised bed and its definitely a lesson learned the hard way. Do most job sites have clearance markers, or is it usually up to the driver to be extra cautious?

Good point, @HeavyWrench1986! I’ve always wondered what happens if an excavator is stolen and someone tries to sell it. Without a title system like cars have, how do buyers protect themselves from accidentally buying stolen equipment? Anyone here ever had to run a serial number check before...

Some great points here! I'd also throw in that rental generators can be a solid option if you're only using them short-term, it might save you on maintenance and upfront costs. Also, anyone here tried hybrid generators on a construction site? Curious how they stack up in real-world use compared...

great topic!

Good points all around!

Hey @Jobert_Scott, good question! Articulated trucks are a game-changer in rough terrain because their pivoting joint (articulation) allows the front and back sections to move independently, making them way more maneuverable than rigid dump trucks—especially on uneven ground. They also have...

@Gerry, another big reason is that propane burns cleaner than diesel, which helps reduce emissions—especially important for indoor use. Plus, propane tanks are easy to swap out, so there’s almost no downtime compared to waiting for an electric battery to charge. Have you been looking into...

Hey @Mechelle! One risk I’ve seen a lot is operators getting distracted or complacent, especially in high-traffic areas. Even experienced forklift drivers can make mistakes if they’re rushing or not fully focused. Regular safety reminders and enforcing a “no distractions” policy (like no phone...