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GettingAttachedHydraulic Work Tools CanProvide Big Options forYour Small MachinesBy Tara Deering-HansenWhen a contractor needs to installelectrical, plumbing, phone, cable or fiberoptic lines for residential andcommercial properties, it’s no surprisethat they all look for the most cost-effective way to getthe job done. In the last several years, many haveturned to compact equipment to get that extra boost inproductivity.Not only can a skid steer loader, compact excavators— and more recently compact and mini track loaders —squeeze into small places at a fraction of the operatingcost of their larger machines, they are also able to run avariety of attachments to complete almost any task.According to Justin Odegaard, attachment product representativefor Bobcat Co., compact machines give contractorsthe ability to perform more than one task becauseof the number of attachments the machines can utilize.“Compact machines are especially useful for utilitycontractors, who are able to use them to cost-effectivelyextend their utility installation offerings,” Odegaardexplains. “Instead of buying several dedicated pieces ofequipment, contractors can spend thousands less bypurchasing attachments for their loaders andexcavators.”The size of a compact skid steer, track loader orexcavator is of course one of the most obvious benefitsof the machines. For utility contractors working inestablished areas where they must access tight spaces,compact equipment allows them to go where largermachines can’t. But Odegaard explains that loadersand excavators with track undercarriages provideadditional benefits that include improved traction,increased productivity, better flotation and reducedground disturbance.28 Utility Contractor | August 2007