OPERATION TRENCHING
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Trenching
Trenching is the most basic backhoe dipping opera-
tion. Other digging operations are merely variations of
this basic function (i.e. filling the bucket, dumping the
bucket, and moving the unit forward).
While trenching, it is generally important to maintain a
level trench bottom. This is accomplished by setting
the bucket at the proper angle of approach. As the
bucket is crowding in, continuously push on the
bucket lever to maintain the correct cutting angle. At
the same time, pull on the lift lever to relieve down
pressure and keep the bucket in the same plane.
Continue the trench by moving forward. Moving too
far will require excessive down pressure for digging,
plus hand clean-up of the trench bottom. It is better to
move a lesser amount than to move too far.
Continuous Trenching With Spaced Bellholes
Begin by digging the trench to the desired grade.
Progress along the trench to the bellhole location and
dig as much of the bellhole as possible without moving
the backhoe from the trench line setting.
Move to the side as previously described and complete
the bellhole. Realign the backhoe with the trench, and
proceed trenching to the next bellhole.
Trenching Between a Building
and Open Excavations
Start the trench at the building. Trench out halfway to
the excavation. Then start trenching from the excava-
tion to the first trench. Dig toward the first trench until
there is just enough room to move the unit out from
between the two trenches.
CORRECT METHOD
INCORRECT METHOD
INCORRECT METHOD
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