Whether building irrigation systems, installing lighting or trench edging, the hole-digging professional can maximize productivity and safety with the right tool.
Prior to starting a trenching project, it is critical to make sure you have the right equipment and the right technique to be successful. For contractors who handle projects of all sizes, right-sizing equipment in advance will make life easier.
The mini-trencher is the perfect “one-size-fits-all” tool. For everything from irrigation systems and plumbing to drainage lines, low-voltage wiring and landscape edging, mini-trenchers can quickly dig narrow, shallow trenches.
These powerful yet compact machines dig clean trenches from 1-4 inches wide and feature adjustable cutting depths up to 12 inches. And by opting for narrow trenches, you help to minimize the lasting impact on landscapes after projects are complete.
How to operate a mini-trencher
There are seven simple steps for successful trenching:
- With the trencher in position, start the engine and allow it to warm up for about 2-3 minutes.
- Throttle the engine up to operating speed.
- Standing behind the trencher, keep one hand on the handle and use the other to lower the blade to the desired depth by turning the crank handle counterclockwise.
- With the blade set to the correct depth, simply push the trencher forward until the trench is complete.
- Then, raise the blade completely out of the ground using the crank handle.
- Turn off the engine and fuel.
- When it’s time to backfill, simply scrape the mound of deposited dirt into the trench.
Models that direct soil only to one side, such as the Kwik-Trench by Little Beaver, make backfill easy while also reducing the occurrence of cupping as the dirt settles. To further minimize turf disruption, manufacturers often equip units with pneumatic tires that glide over delicate surfaces, which means less time and money spent on repairs.
“It’s great to hear from contractors who have customers return home and assume the job hasn’t been started because the yard looks undisturbed.”
− Mike Hale, Sales Manager, Little Beaver Inc.
Power and safety in one small package
Despite the small size of mini-trenchers, many provide enough power to cut though tree roots, dense clay and even asphalt. Models with carbide-tipped teeth are particularly efficient in challenging conditions. The only material not suitable for these types of trenchers is rocky soil.
With engines in the 5- to 8-hp range, mini-trenchers can reach 800 RPMs and, depending on soil conditions, can cut up to 30 feet of trench per minute.
Faster operation means contractors can do more in less time.
Designed for safety and ease-of-use
- Push forward units offer safe handling with a clear view of what’s ahead.
- Pullback units often feature an automatic shut-off in case the operator falls or lets go.
- Compact size allows for easy handling and improved maneuverability in tight spaces.
- Mini-trenchers make loading and unloading easy.
- Shrouding over the blade contains debris for added safety.
The trencher that stands the test of time
In addition to safe and simple operation, low maintenance is another benefit of mini-trenchers, and low maintenance translates to time and money saved for contractors. Many mini-trenchers include features designed to help extend the equipment’s life.
The triple V-belt system
Some mini-trenchers feature a triple V-belt system that maintains positive traction if the trencher encounters an obstruction. This reduces wear on belts so they can be replaced less frequently.
Slip clutches
A slip clutch is often built into the hub of the cutter wheels to kill the motor if the trencher hits a solid object, preventing wear to the drive train and damage to cutting teeth.
Replaceable teeth
If teeth do get damaged, units with replaceable teeth reduce repair costs by allowing users to replace only the damaged teeth instead of the entire blade.
A lasting investment
Made for ease-of-use and made to last, the mini-trencher helps irrigation and lighting professionals get business done right.
“We recently heard from a contractor who started installing irrigation lines by hand in college to earn money during the summer,” says Hale.
“As his business picked up, he decided to invest in a Kwik-Trench. That was nearly 30 years ago! Today he’s running a successful irrigation company that’s built largely on the success he found with his first mini-trencher.”
About Little Beaver Inc.
Little Beaver has been proudly manufacturing quality, safe and productive drilling and trenching equipment for three generations. With a full line of easy-to-operate equipment, along with a complete offering of accessories, including augers, extensions, points and blades, Little Beaver effectively serves the needs of end-users from professional contractors to rental centers.
For more information about Little Beaver and the Kwik Trench, visit www.littlebeaver.com. Find Little Beaver on Facebook, Google+, LinkedIn and YouTube.
This page was produced by North Coast Media’s content marketing staff in collaboration with Little Beaver. NCM Content Marketing connects marketers to audiences and delivers industry trends, business tips and product information. The Landscape Management editorial staff did not create this content.
Photos provided by Little Beaver.