What customers need to know about trenchers

Trenchers range from small push models that dig trench or slits less than an inch wide and a few inches deep to big track-mounted machines used for laying cross-country underground utilities.
Trenchers are used to install service and distribution lines; to bury water and natural gas lines, telephone and television cable, satellite dish transmission cable, low-voltage outdoor lighting systems, drainage pipe, sprinklers and irrigation systems; to dig footings for foundations, curbing and landscape edging - they're even used to cut roots.

A thorough knowledge of potential uses of trenching equipment will help counter and yard personnel suggest applications many customers may not have considered - and increase trencher rentals.

The smallest models cut through soils with a disc equipped with cutting teeth. Larger, self-propelled walk-along machines and medium-sized riding units have chain-type digging components that use different types of hard-surfaced cutting teeth for varying soil conditions.

Medium-size and larger models can be equipped with a variety of attachments, such as a utility backhoe, for specialized trenching requirements and related jobs.

Small push-type trenchers weigh as little as 200 pounds and dig trench less than an inch wide at depths of approximately six inches. Other compact trenchers have greater width and depth capabilities. Self-propelled chain-type trenchers in the 10- to 12-horsepower range are excellent rental items. While larger and heavier than the small disc machines, many walk-along models are narrow enough to go through a 36-inch yard gate.

Riding trenchers of 20 to 35 horsepower, equipped with backfill blades, are popular rental machines. Stores serving contractors carry larger utility machines, which can be equipped with a variety of attachments for specialized work.

Who rents trenchers?
Telephone, cable television, electrical, natural gas and water utility companies and contractors; plumb-ers, electrical contractors, homebuilders, highway contractors, landscape companies and farmers use trenchers. City street, water and park departments, county and state road departments, and other governmental agencies, including the military, use trenchers. Homeowners typically rent compact push or walk-along models or smaller riding units. A reasonably handy do-it-yourselfer can use a trencher for a variety of projects, such as an underground lawn sprinkler system.
Rental centers should be alert to growing telecommunications needs.

Operation
Manufacturers have simplified operation of their equipment, but given the variety of makes and models, it is important for rental center personnel to understand the equipment well so they can counsel the customer on every trencher in the yard. Step-by-step instructions should begin with starting, moving equipment, loading, tie down, transporting and unloading. Customers must know how to start and stop trenching operations and understand how to stop the machine quickly in case of emergency. On larger machines, instruction should include how to operate and maintain attachments.

Special attention should be given to homeowner renters, since most have never have operated a trencher. Allow time for questions and make every effort to ensure that the customer is comfortable with the machine. Contractor personnel may have plenty of experience with trenchers, but it still is important to cover operational procedures. Every renter should be given a copy of the operator's manual.

Taking the time to learn about the customer's project will help you recommend the right machine and reduce the likelihood of problems on the job site. Example: in most areas, power cable must be buried at least 24 inches deep, so if a homeowner customer is planning to install electrical cable, advise him or her to make sure the installation complies with local codes.

Safety
Knowing correct operational procedures is the starting point for safe trencher operation. Counter personnel should explain to all renters - and emphasize to homeowners - potential dangers associated with trenching equipment. Impress on renters the importance of knowing the location of buried pipe and cable - cutting existing buried utilities can be deadly.

Other safety tips:

• Trencher operators always should wear safety boots, eye protection, and hat; loose clothing can become caught in moving components.
• Know how to stop equipment quickly.
• Don't allow anyone around the digging chain or disc - rocks or other objects can be thrown from the trench with great force.
• Never allow bystanders to stand near a trench.
• Do not leave tools in the trench while equipment is operating.
• On riding models, wear seat belts.
• Do not leave the operator's station while equipment is running.
• Never leave running equipment and unattended. · Never disconnect safety devices such as interlock systems.
• Never operate equipment without safety guards and shields.
• Do not perform maintenance while equipment is running.
• Allow cool-down period before attempting adjustments.
• Load and unload equipment carefully and keep bystanders away.
• Make sure it is secure before transporting.

Maintenance on the job
Short-term rentals should require no maintenance other than refueling and maintaining fluid levels. Renters should understand the correct fuel to use, what fluids are required and where fluid caps are located. Longer-term rentals may require lubrication. If appropriate, explain maintenance schedules and what responsibilities are the customer's under the terms of the rental. Tell customers to call if mechanical problems develop.