The Anatomy of Excavators

Excavators come in many shapes and sizes, including compact excavators designed to fit on smaller work sites. If you’re new to using an excavator, you may be wondering how these machines function. This quick breakdown will take you through the anatomy of your compact excavator so that you can fully understand your machine and how it operates, which will help you to use it more safely and efficiently.

Tracks & Frame

The tracks of the excavator help it get around on rugged terrain. These tracks are set into a system of metal rollers that propel the machine. The rollers are mounted onto a rectangular frame beneath the excavator’s house. The undercarriage of the tracks should be regularly washed off to prevent build-up.

House & Cab

The main part of the excavator’s body is called the house, and this is where the engine and the operating cab are found. The cab is enclosed to protect the operator from debris, wind, rain, and sun while they’re using the excavator.

Arm & Counterweight

Extending out from the house is the excavator’s arm, or boom, which moves in multiple directions and can have an attachment such as a bucket anchored to its end. There’s a counterweight at the excavator’s rear to help prevent the machine from falling over as the arm moves around.

To tour our full stock of new and used Bobcat® excavators, including compact excavators, visit our Indiana dealership in Fort Wayne. Talk to one of our sales team members to learn more about our equipment financing options. Bobcat® of  Fort Wayne serves our customers in greater Indianapolis, IN.