Are you about to rent a trencher? These machines are used for digging trenches for installing pipes, laying cable, installing sprinkler systems, landscape edging, and other projects.
Nevertheless, selecting the best trencher for the job depends on a multitude of factors, such as the project scope, soil conditions, environmental concerns, etc. After carefully considering these factors, renters should choose the right size, model, horsepower, and features.
Due to the latest technology innovations, nowadays, the newest models are equipped with a hydraulic system. There are numerous rental stores renting trenchers, such as ditch witch rental, suitable for small contractors and irrigation professionals.
Follow these tips to rent the right model.
Consider the size
The inceptive aspect to consider when renting such equipment is the size of the trencher, which depends on the trench dimensions. Walk-behind models are suitable for short-term, small-scope projects, as they have power limitations. In contrast, ride-on models should be rented for trenches longer than 250 feet, wider than eight inches, and deeper than forty-eight inches.
Moreover, ride-on models are also suitable for concrete or dense soil job sites. If your trench needs are larger, a quad trencher would be the ideal choice. These models have the most powerful diesel engine and provide rapid shifting transmission. Don’t forget to consider the scope of the installation project that you’ll be working on.
As mentioned previously, the depth and width of your trench can certainly narrow down the selection. In most cases, individuals opt for larger machines, which complete tasks more efficiently while requiring a larger budget. Conversely, renting a machine that’s too small for your project will end up creating more work for the person operating it, as well as spending more time on the site.
Consider the ground conditions
The ground conditions are another important consideration when renting a trencher. They affect the choice of chain type, horsepower, and drive system. For instance, loose, loamy, or dry soil requires lower horsepower and a less powerful chain. Go here to see an explanation of ten different types of soil.
Hard, clay, or rocky soil, on the other hand, requires a machine with higher horsepower and an aggressive chain. The weather is another factor that should be taken into account, especially when there has been recent rain. When the soil is muddy and wet, the job is likely to become complicated. In such scenarios, a tracked trencher provides greater stability. Also, a ride-on model prevents operator discomfort.
Know your job
Another tip to bear in mind when renting a trencher is to know your job. For instance, contractors usually work on projects that require building large trenches, which is when a machine like the Ditch Witch might come in handy. It has the necessary speed and force to reduce job time. Nevertheless, such a large machine isn’t suitable for smaller sites, as it takes quite a lot of space.
For instance, homeowners planning to rent such equipment to trench for a sprinkler system in a small yard wouldn’t be able to maneuver the machine. This wouldn’t be the case in a wide area with almost no obstacles. Also, microtrenching is a new trend that contractors practice in the installation of fiber-optic cables.
The concept of microtrenching involves minimal disturbance of the ground, meaning trenches should be no wider than a few inches. If you wish to join this trend, renting a microtrencher would be the right decision. See this link, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trench, for a better understanding of trenches.
Tires vs. tracks
Another choice that individuals have to make when renting such a machine is between tires and tracks. This equipment comes with pneumatic tires, urethane tires, or tracks. For example, pneumatic tires offer more versatility and safety. Individuals can use these trenchers on delicate turf and reach the most problematic corners. Conversely, urethane tires require less maintenance, as they cannot go flat.
Nevertheless, tracks are mostly preferred by renters, as they offer a large footprint, a machine that performs smoothly, and minimal turf damage. They provide greater stability and traction, along with a better performance. These units are heavier, meaning they’re capable of withstanding tough conditions. The traction capacity of models with tracks is excellent for cruddy soils.
Extra features
When renting a trencher like Ditch Witch, individuals should consider the additional features of the machine, which contribute to comfort and safety. The largest part of models come with width and depth adjustability, bolt-on teeth, and push-forward design. Nevertheless, there’s a variety of high-tech models that offer much more.
For example, renters are advised to rent a model with a locking swivel wheel, which makes sure the machine does straight trenches. If the machine deposits soil in a neat way on the sides of the trench, the cleaning process will be less complicated. Also, when renting such equipment, look for a model with a slip clutch.
In addition, this safety feature prevents damage in case the operator hits an object. As a result, you won’t have to go back to the rental center to rent another machine or, even worse, pay for the damaged equipment. It’s paramount for the controls to be easy to understand, as the operator will save both time and money by getting straight to work instead of wondering how to operate the trencher.
There should be independent traction control for both the right and left tracks, which facilitates the process of maneuverability. Also, there are different chain types, valve handles, hydraulic valve enhancements, and other features.
As far as technology is concerned, hydraulic steering is incorporated into this equipment to make trenchers more maneuverable. Such a hydraulic system makes small machines automatic. The job of the operator is to pull the chain and the wheel lever. In the meantime, through the hydraulics, wheel sleep will be automatically adjusted to the chain load. You should also consider the track controls and rod linkage features.
Final thoughts
Your project is a vital consideration when renting a trencher.
Make the best decision!