What to Consider Before You Rent a Bobcat for Home Use
Renting a bobcat can mean being able to manage your own excavation for a new well, underground water tank, septic tank, and the like. Many places rent bobcats; you may even be able to get one from a local hardware or home improvement store. They're also somewhat easy to use and easy to manage, even if you've never had training for such equipment before. However, consider a few things before you rent a bobcat, so you know you're making the right choice and will know how to handle it properly.
1. Always ask if a bobcat is the right equipment for your job.
The rental agency that rents out bobcats for homeowners will usually be familiar with the best equipment for the type of job you want done; homeowners may assume that a bobcat is their only choice or their best option, but a rental agent may know better. You may not realize that equipment like trenchers or excavating drills even exist, much less that they can better accommodate what you need to have done on your property. Trenchers create long, narrow trenches that are great for planting or irrigation systems. Excavating drills dig a hole straight down into the ground. These pieces or something similar may work better for you, and they may be available for rent as well.
2. Consider a caged cab.
A bobcat with a caged cab can sometimes be more expensive than one with an open cab, but if you're new to using this type of equipment, it can be the best choice. The cage can protect you in case the bobcat should tip or roll over, and can also provide added protection against any type of debris that might come your way if you should lose control of the bobcat.
3. Ensure you know its weight limit.
A rental agency may caution you about lifting wet soil with the bobcat, or lifting rock. This is because wet soil is typically heavier than dry soil, and heavy rocks can also easily tip the bobcat as you try to lift the bucket. Note the weight limit of the bobcat and if you're working with muddy or wet soil, working around a pond or water feature, or hitting rocky soil as you dig. Also, take the time to lift half a load at once rather than trying to fill the bucket with each pass. This will ensure your safety and keep the bobcat from tipping.
If you have any other questions about renting a bobcat, consider consulting a bobcat hire company for more information.
Share