Backhoe for my 2800?

[Kenneth in Texas]

Ive recently been approached about digging graves believe it or not by a company that owns 5 different cemeteries within a 75 mile radius, some small, some of them larger than small. Either way they are shopping for a digger, they claim they average 4 holes and a maximum (rarely) of 10 holes weekly and pay $150.00 to $200.00 each depending on distance away from me. Obviously this would basically could be little better than part time type work so i am looking it over.

2 ways its possible for me, add a frame mounted backhoe on my 2800 or buy a small mini excavator (read used) for the job, either way im looking at some fairly hefty outlay of cash. The holes they claim are 36" wide x 84" long x 52" deep maximum, shallower in high water table areas.

I know this is a not talked about job for the most part but I guess someone has to do it. So im looking for some suggestions and feedback, add-a-hoe or mini ex? I already have a 20' heavy duty trailer I haul my tractor on so im hoping i wont need another one either way.

Among the other questions i am researching with them is how long i will have to stay on site to fill the holes up with most of the dirt that was removed and a few others questions, but thats after i give thought to which machine would be best.

If I've brought this subject up and any of you have lost a loved one recently, my apologies.

So any of you have any experience with something like this? Suggestions/comments are appreciated.

 

[pmsmechanic]

I would consider a dedicated excavator. It's no fun to be doing something with your tractor and then have to take the implement your using off, attach the backhoe, and then when your done digging the hole change everything back so that you can finish the first job. Then you have to do the same thing all over in the next few days because you need to dig another hole.

Another thing to consider would be a dedicated trailer but I would see how things go first.

Just my not so humble opinion.

 

[chvfrk98]

I agree. While my backhoe is pretty easy to take off it's still a job. I would think a mini excavator would provide a little better reach as well. Less readjusting.

 

[pmsmechanic]

My reasoning included this. 4 holes/week at $150 = $600 times 52 weeks = a little over $31,000. Not to shabby and gives you some wiggle room. Also you can trade/sell your present backhoe. Or the cheapest way would be to buy another tractor that can be attached to all your present equipment. The you are only stuck if both your tractors or the hoe breaks down. If the hoe breaks down there are always rentals.

 

[Code54]

Personally a Mini Ex would be my choice. You could easy and quickly pop the holes in with it and not need to move around thus causing less ground damage. The tracks would also be an advantage on soft ground (if it rains you still need to dig)
The other nice thing is if you need to load any dirt you have the 180 degree spin/dump that a backhoe does not allow.

 

[ritschner]

I am not trying to be negative, I have just seen too many friends and family get into a venture with not enough forethought and wish they had not after a month or so. So really think this through. You may want to look a little deeper into project. You will have an initial investment for equipment. I priced a BH77 2 years ago and it was about $10k installed. You will also need insurance to cover this venture (I believe KTAC does). Figure $1 a mile to and from the job to cover fuel, wear, and tear on your truck plus a little for your time. Then figure at least $60 an hour for the actual digging. Then there is the time loading and unloading at home and on site . Then there are the rainy days and the cleanup that follows. Are you competent enough to not have to finish the hole with a shovel and does the price include you having to go back and fill afterward? The biggest plus is the terrain in the DFW area. I think you can do OK if the average distance is less than 50 miles, the average dig time stays under an hour and a half and you do not have to return.