TOP EXCAVATOR TIPS AND TRICKS

[@vitaliykharchenko3864]

This is exactly what I was looking for. Tips and tricks that help you be more productive and efficient. Not only that, but you explain the difference between a rookie and someone who is experienced, and then demonstrate it. I hope you make more videos like these. This video is a goldmine

[@DieselandIron]

My entire channel is dedicated to helping new operators. Take a look and see if there's more material that can help you out. If you've got a specific question, let me know and I'll try to make a video about it. Thanks for the comment!

[@jakesink77]

Great suggestion. I'll just dip into my bag of money and time to get that done. Learn on the fly fast and loose

[@JT-qe5ym]

Can’t thank you enough for the teaching videos, your inspiring a new generation of construction professionals. I have been a Police Officer in Florida for just over 23 years and have 22 months left. I want to be a heavy equipment operator for my next career. You are a great instructor! I have been through 1000’s of hours of training (Police) and I know a good instructor when I hear one! You are providing great guidance and advice in your instruction and training. Keep up the great work!

[@DieselandIron]

Thanks for watching and let me know if you have questions!

[@cdnhelo68]

I know little to nothing about operating an excavator. The quality and efficiency of how you deliver instruction and demonstrate the material is impressive and very helpful. Nice work.

[@DieselandIron]

Thank you Matt! I really appreciate this compliment!

[@benjispark]

Thanks so much! I've been a welder for last 25 yrs and I'm turning 49 and just got my first digging job, starts next week. Digging a few ponds and ditches. You really helped me more than you know, because I have almost no experience. I know I'll pick it up but your tips are exactly what will keep me from learning the hard way so thanks again.

[@DieselandIron]

Congrats on starting a new career! It's a great spot to be in. Glad the videos are helping you and good luck as you continue to learn! I was in the same boat when I started. No experience. Spent a bunch of time watching other operators both in person and on KZbin and was able to pick up skills and techniques that have served me well. One of the reasons I started this channel, wanted to help other guys out who are in the same spot I was in!

[@MichaelsJohnDeere]

Congratulations man I have operated for several years backhoes, excavators, combines, tractor, loaders, etc. Got promoted to heavy equipment operator right before Christmas. Love these videos as I see allot of what so called experts do wrong and I’m questioning it in my head like I don’t know about what your doing there. 🎉

[@MichaelsJohnDeere]

In fact both guys above me can’t use the foot pedals it seems without their hands.

[@CrazyEye75]

You hit the nail on the head with the last tip. It definitely takes time to get good. I've been running excavators for 17 years now and there were soo many times the first few years I wanted to quit and never thought I'd be able to get good at it. Just keep at it Another tip when craning and you have a quick coupler, take your bucket off. Safer for your ground guys, and gives you more visibility. And one more thing that not many guys care about anymore, always work over your idlers not your final drives.....

[@DieselandIron]

Good tips! Thanks for the comments!

[@dimsumlee1115]

I still put mine on when it gets sketchy just in case. I’ve seen too many videos of excavators doing the funky chicken when the operator falls on the controls:$ knock on wood I’ve never had anything but butterflies in my stomach.

[@dimsumlee1115]

I asked a mechanic why he thought it mattered. His answer was cheaper to fix an idler. I’ve always taken the time to keep my drives on the back for the emergency factor. I never have to guess which way is back. It’s always my heels. I also always back on the float. I had a seat blow backwards on me and it gave me a wild ride. After that it was only possible to load it that way. It’s stuck ever since. Works like a charm for me.

[@DieselandIron]

@@dimsumlee1115 you bring up a good point that I've never thought of before when it comes to having the finals in the rear for an emergency. That's a really great piece of advice

[@chadrides914]

Another neat thing about have the drives in the back, is you gain an extra ton or more of weight which helps tremendously at steadying the machine when you are sticking heaped buckets of clay far ahead of you. In my scenario I run a standard hoe a lot in shovel orientation with some attachments that weigh 11,000lbs. Any extra weight I can have to offset that is useful so I keep the drives in the back.

[@dmedeiros1768]

You are a good teacher. Your last tip says it all.

[@DieselandIron]

Thank you so much! I really appreciate the compliment and thank you for watching!

[@fanningconstruction2050]

@@DieselandIron I'm just like you diesel! I want to try and explain tips and trips to help others out. I just started a you tube channel too. 😁

[@thecraftiekiwi4919]

been operating excavators since i was 13 im 28 now and you nailed everything on the head mate! awsome video. only thing i could add is if your digging out wet sticky clay use your bucket like a grader and roll the fill into your bucket! stops the bucket plugging up

[@DieselandIron]

Great tip and thanks for watching!

[@michaeldahm214]

No shortage of wet sticky clay in NZ

[@produktdnb9859]

this is gold. im in the uk and started my CPCS A59 360 ticket yesterday..ive little experience on small rops machines and jumped in at the deep end by going for the big boys.. after a first practical day i was left a little taken back.. happy yet slightly a knocked confidence also due to the sheer health and safety side and jumping to such bigger machines.. instructors was happy with my progress but upon going home i took time to reflect and felt i could have been far better, again im new to this so i know in time it will come but my main focus of course is to pass. the entire content of this video made me feel so much better i see where i was going wrong from this and also feel a lot less nervous and ready to go back to continue with confidence and learn with the right questions to ask my instructor and more a general idea myself... truly brilliant you have gained a new loyal patron thank you.

[@DieselandIron]

Thank you so much for all the kind words! Honestly, the fact that you played back your experience and thought about ways you can improve tells me that you are a good operator. Going forward in your career you will continue to break things down like that. You'll always find something you can improve upon. That's what separates mediocre operators from really good operators. Thanks for watching and let me know if you've got any questions going forward!

[@skadill]

Also for the general operating public-When swinging the tracks underneath as everyone does to makes turning easier, (while using bucket to provide lift) make a habit of going the opposite way a few inches before setting back down into the rails to keep the rails in the rollers and avoid peeling the edge flanges off the bottom rollers,then everything stays in line. Old tracks will come 6" or even a foot or more out of the bottom rollers and get tracked like that ,wearing everything out and is number one cause of tracks coming off.

[@DieselandIron]

Great advice! Thanks for the comment!

[@LostCaper]

thanks for sharing

[@robhowe4th]

You have great tips for learning operators. I'm really glad you mentioned making sure your counterweight is clear. One of my pet peeves is seeing the counterweight scratched up & a dirty trashy cab/equip get under my skin

[@DieselandIron]

Thanks Robert! I'm right there with you. Seeing a shiny counterweight or dented side panels just irritates me because it's due to careless operating.

[@josiahvonb3426]

That also drives me crazy, a couple more pet peeves I have is when operators get out of the cab without grounding their bucket and operators that love to dig and track over their final drives, it drives me nuts for some reason.

[@DieselandIron]

@@josiahvonb3426 the bucket in the air really drives me nuts too. That's asking for an accident

[@ronniejones8508]

The ones that gave this video a thumbs down, must think they know it all. Way too explain it bro. I've been a heavy equipment operator over 30 years, and i thought you did a great job explaining how to compensate for certain situations. Great job bro.

[@DieselandIron]

Thanks Ronnie. There's always haters on the internet. Constructing thickened my skin, it doesn't even phase me! 🤣🤣

[@LostCaper]

Very true and nobody knows it all.

[@NahabweBenjamin]

I thank you very much for your teaching and training the public about how to operate excavator.I have the skill of operating but I don't have connections of job opportunities

[@DieselandIron]

Thanks for watching, I really appreciate it!

[@aukanmeister]

I just bought my first excavator for my home, and need all the input the experienced operator would teach the apprentice. This is helping me out a lot! I've never operated an excavator before, and don't have it in my blood yet. This makes me understand a few principles and ways of thinking that gives me a head start in the game. Thank you very much for taking the time to teach an old bastard some new tricks :)

[@DieselandIron]

Happy to help! I've got quit a few videos on excavators so make sure to check those out for more info.

[@spevakdesigns]

Bought a used 3 ton Kubota mini ex and started running it this weekend. Nearly broke a toe on my left foot last week so I had to learn to run the foot pedals with one foot across both pedals. Super cool to finally have one at our property to get the heavy lifting done without breaking a sweat. Thanks for all the tips in the video. Trying to learn as much as I can to get better at running the equipment.

[@koral7479]

Thank you for making this, I’m in an operator school right now learning all kinds of heavy equipment and one of the longer courses is excavator. I’ve been all over the place emotionally about it and the instructors kinda just throw you to the wolves lol. Finally I had enough and decided to look up tips and tricks, found your video and it’s seriously so helpful and reassuring. Thank you!!

[@DieselandIron]

Thanks for watching and thank you for the feedback! Feel free to reach out if you need any help. I coach people all the time!

[@3000gtalex]

Excavator and dozer will take a long time just get the seat time somewhere safe.

[@matthewtE]

Thank you so much! Balancing the machine smoothly is what I need to work on the most.

[@DieselandIron]

That will come with time as you learn the machine and get smooth on the controls

[@nickerzzbell4811]

🙏 Outstanding to watch, thanks from Australia, I have worked on earthmoving and forestry equipment (breakdowns maintenance and modifying/engineering) for a good part of my life, and I recently got an excavator, I spent a few days trying to work out how to actually operate properly but still had so many questions, and this video has answered the majority of them and taught me so much more! Thanks once again! (Operations and Maintenance really are 2 different worlds ha ha)

[@DieselandIron]

I apologize for not getting to this comment sooner. I'm currently on the road working with a friend on a big project. I really appreciate your kind words and appreciate you watching. If you have any questions feel free to shoot me a message or an email

[@prepordietryin9119]

Man I got to say thank you for not bullshiting around I'm 50 seconds into the and I already learning something. Too many KZbinrs like the stroke their ego and ramble on. I don't run an excavator but I'm trying to learn when I get a chance to operate one. I'm going to start using the pedals instead of the sticks.

[@DieselandIron]

Glad the videos are helpful! When I first started, the best way I learned was by watching other operators both in person and on KZbin.

[@he3865]

Great video mate, found it very useful. Only been operating for a couple months now and would love to see more digger tips and techniques videos 🤘🏼

[@DieselandIron]

I talk a lot about excavators in my vlogs since it is primarily what I operate. I'll try to do another tips and tricks here down the road. Thanks for watching!

[@markbrown9765]

A couple years late to the video but....I bought an excavator just over 2 years ago (smaller 12,000 machine) for our forestry clearing, road building, house building, sawmill log loading, etc. I grew up on a farm so am pretty comfortable around machinery. I'd rented a backhoe once for a week and after about 10 minutes was just going to it. A fair amount of video game experience so new movements, hand/eye coordination was never a problem. 2 days into the excavator and I'm like, "I suck at this!". I really thought I'd never get better. I now have just over 600 hours on it and would be very comfortable doing it as a job. If you ask me what stick does what I'd have to stop and think about it. My hands just know what to do...but it took quite a while. I learned all of your tips the hard way :). Well, mine is a zero turn so I never really have to think about your tip to make sure the counterweight clears.

[@DieselandIron]

Love this, you're absolutely right, muscle memory. Pretty awesome when your machine just feels like an extension of your body. Thanks for watching brother!

[@wraith0127]

OSHA/MSHA requires you to always wear your seatbelt while running the equipment. If your job isn't governed by MSHA/OSHA, I still say wear it. If something happens and you get thrown out of the cab, the ROPS can't help keep that 80,000lb hunk of solid steel from squishing the guts out of your body. They'll need a shovel just to clean up what's left of you. A guy that used to run a CAT 980 loader in the surface mine I work at left his seatbelt off, his loader started to rollover and he jumped from the cab. The machine tipped over nearly on it's roof, then came back down on it's side and one of the massive wheels came down and crushed his legs. There was nothing left but spaghetti from about mid thigh down. The worst part of the whole thing? The cab was undamaged, even the glass was still intact. If he had his belt on and stayed in the cab, he would have been fine except for a few bumps and bruises. Now he has no legs. If the job requires you to lean over to look out the front of the cab to see your dig, rest the bucket down, lock the hydraulics, unbuckle, check what you need to check, then put the seatbelt back on before you get back to work. Trust me when I say that the few seconds that takes, is worth your life and limbs, regardless of how much time it wastes on the project. If an accident occurs, you're going to loose much more time when the rescue personnel, investigator, and coroner have to shut down the jobsite for the day. Sorry about the rant, but after seeing what I've seen, I will never operate any equipment without my seatbelt on. Seatbelts, along with the ROPS is designed to keep you ALIVE and able to go back to work.

[@wraith0127]

I should mention, I still enjoyed the whole video! Subbed because I look forward to so much more like this! So many of these tips I already knew, but still a great video for beginners!

[@DieselandIron]

I hear you. The industry is slowly changing but, as one guy pointed out, half of the machines don't even have working seatbelts because they are so often neglected. It wouldn't surprise me if seatbelts became mandatory here in the states within the next 5-10 years. Thanks for watching and thanks for the input!

[@DieselandIron]

Thank you so much for the compliment! I really appreciate the support!

[@nbragtop]

This is absolutely the most helpful video that I have seen. I will watch it many times. You are an excellent instructor. Thank you !

[@DieselandIron]

Thanks for watching and I'm happy to help! Feel free to reach out if you have any questions.

[@michaeljuett4888]

Great tutorial. It's interesting you mentioned physics. Definitely a continual thought process when operating.

[@DieselandIron]

Thanks Michael! This industry is great when it comes to the use of physics. We use it everyday!

[@surethatsok]

Great tips for beginners. You're a fine ambassador for heavy equipment operators.

[@DieselandIron]

I appreciate that! Thanks for the comment

[@harestileheep9312]

A video on the best ways to push stone to a rough grade using the bucket whilst tracking forwards would be helpful. 20 ton is dumped and you want to spread it fast and (there's no dozer) and getting behind to pull is not an option (geogrid/teram, etc.) Great videos you have there, my compliments.

[@DieselandIron]

Let me see what I can do here in the next couple of weeks.

[@toast47624]

Sit your machine at the end of the covered geogrid, then have loads tipped off behind you. Yes you need to pick it up and slew 180 but if you are in a 20T machine its nothing and you will just keep trimming behind you. AP 65 which is typically put on geogrid is a bitch to push with the back of the bucket. Its what I do and find it much quicker.

[@KingcoleIIV]

I am mesmerized by the fluid movements of the machine. U are an awesome operator dude.

[@DieselandIron]

I appreciate that Cole!

[@mr.rodriguez3908]

Thanks for the tips and tricks. This is valuable information for beginners. Good job teaching and giving encouragement to new operators.

[@DieselandIron]

Thanks for the feedback! I think one thing this industry really lacks is encouraging words for new operators. I think that's part of why we are struggling so hard to find new blood.

[@Sheubaba]

It is a craft that takes time, you will always going to learn. Don't be discouraged just be patient with yourself and the machines. THANKS a lot for this advice

[@DieselandIron]

Thanks for the support brother!

[@MF-ne7qc]

Very good, these tips are the foundment of excavator operating. I operate an excavator since 20 years and you explain very well what I learn over time. 👍

[@DieselandIron]

Thanks for watching!

[@Anthony-fe4oj]

New operator here ! Thanks for the info ! I’m very comfortable inside this equipment but terminology and tricks is where I fall short.

[@DieselandIron]

Lots and lots of seat time will give you your own tips and tricks!

[@GioDudeTV]

Awesome video man! I’m looking into being a heavy equipment operator myself! Been a union laborer in Chicago for 6 years now and just turned 25 last month! I applied to Local 150 operators union last year but haven’t gotten accepted yet! Love the videos dude. Keep em up! I’m trying to absorb everything I can from these videos but of course, like anything, gotta get hands on and put in the time and develop your craft and skills on the site itself!

[@DieselandIron]

Keep at it and I'm sure you'll get in. Don't be afraid to try a non union company while you are waiting. There's some good companies out there that will still treat you fairly. Thanks for the support! I appreciate it!

[@assassinlexx1993]

Show up at the hall in your work clothes and lunch pall. Ask if there any work. Do that day after day. Your show Initiative over the other people wanting a chance. This is how I got in the union because my Dad wasn't in the trade. It took a while but in the end I got my chance. Good luck

[@johnnyhunter4345]

Works on all jobs...

[@MrJoe1627]

Working non union was horrible definitely would recommend geting into a local

[@3000gtalex]

This is a fun video, I would love to make one like this.. all this knowledge is so helpful for someone starting out, where until your sitting in it you have no idea what to do but figure it out on your own. I’d bet watching a lot of these videos could cut down the harsh learning phase in half.

[@DieselandIron]

That's my goal. Help guys and gals get into the industry and get through that "feeling dumb" phase a lot quicker than what we went through. Thanks for watching and thanks for the comment!

[@sethleonard3775]

Great video lots of info would love to see more videos like this for excavator and dozer thanks

[@DieselandIron]

Thanks for watching! I'll see what I can do!

[@DieselandIron]

Have you had a chance to check this one out about excavator startup and controls? kzbin.info/www/bejne/fpyynKubhKp5aKs These are some of my dozer videos that may be helpful: My Top Bulldozer Tips and Tricks kzbin.info/www/bejne/fHqXqKSBh8yJgbs How and When to Use Float to Smooth Tracks kzbin.info/www/bejne/laGVaIupaNWjY8U Let me know if those are what you were looking for and also if you have any ideas for other videos that could help you out, thanks for watching!

[@michaelclayton1827]

It is always interesting watching another operator! Even if you have been in the seat for 10's of thousands of hours you can always learn a new little trick or hint!

[@DieselandIron]

Agree, you are ALWAYS learning!

[@theunluckyfisherman4845]

Excellent video. A big tip i can give a new person: if you're in a position where you are labouring for or sharing a machine with another operator, be nice and try to learn from them. Coming out of heavy equipment school years ago and having to work telecommunications in a mini ex with a partner has taught me that there is a big ego problem with a lot of operators, and theres a reason for it. The reason Its extremely difficult to watch someone do something badly when you know you can do it better. If they say "let me in there" dont get upset, use it as an opportunity to really pay attention to what this more experienced person does and try to mimic it next time. I've been able to learn things from even the biggest assholes at the company. Be patient, you can learn something from everybody, even if its how NOT to do something.

[@DieselandIron]

Great advice. I'll just add in, always be humble. It doesn't matter if you've been doing this for 20 years. There's still a good chance you can learn something from one of the new guys.

[@thehoofersclub]

When backfilling how often do you use a 45 degree angle?

[@DieselandIron]

Can you clarify the question?

[@MrHane68]

Thanks! Those tips were great education!

[@DieselandIron]

You got it! Thanks for watching!

[@lhprestes1]

Great information man! Thanks a lot. I just purchased a small excavator and was looking for some beginner tips. You have earned my subscription!

[@DieselandIron]

Thanks for watching and thanks for the sub!

[@67hundredthz]

You can always tell a good excavator operator cuz he never curls his bucket all the way out and slams it like this guy does

[@DieselandIron]

This machine had a coupler so it took me a minute to get a feel for where the stop point was. Get your panties out of a twist...

[@TheRealBeardedBuilder]

@@DieselandIron you can always tell a keyboard operator by their comments 😂

[@DieselandIron]

@@TheRealBeardedBuilder amen to that!

[@523FILMS]

@@DieselandIron was this your first time running a excavator?

[@truepatriot3870]

@@523FILMS Bahahahahahahaha! Stall him out Bro! Lol!!

[@buddyrehd67]

When I first running a grader the best advise I got was that even when you think you get good there will be days when it feels like nothing goes right. Don’t get discouraged. Tomorrow is another day! And most of what we do is not permanent.. it can be fixed.

[@DieselandIron]

Great advice!

[@df6937]

After just shy of 30 years operating all types of equipment (90% in an excavator), I got to say, the seat belts in each piece of equipment looked like the day it was installed at the factory when they were traded in years later.

[@DieselandIron]

Haha thank you! Half of the seatbelts in machines I've run we're actually seized in the closed position. You couldn't even pull them out if you wanted to wear the seatbelt

[@mark-n8k6q]

do you have a video on how to pick up stuff like smaller rocks

[@Filzkiiz]

YesSiRr!!😎👊👌👍💯🔥!! CheeRz brO!! 👍👍🤙😊

[@DieselandIron]

Thanks again for the support my man!

[@Filzkiiz]

@@DieselandIron 💯💯💯% brO!! GottA support ma fellow ConstrutioN perssonel!!😉👌👊👍🔥💯!! Dat sheitt aiNt EASY!!😎😁😊!! 👊👊👊👍👌🤙

[@paulhanger7242]

Great advice mate

[@DieselandIron]

Thanks Paul! I appreciate that!

[@mickeybishop9851]

I really enjoyed your informative video. I'm new to using an excavator. I have an e35 bobcat. My ? is, how do you know what to much grade angle is to prevent tipping?

[@DieselandIron]

The honest and true answer? Seat time and experience. Once you get comfortable on the machine and you know how the machine will react, throw on your seat belt and position your arm on the downhill side of the machine. Start tracking out onto your slope keeping your arm downhill and a few inches off the ground. At some point you will reach the tipping point but instead of going over you can catch yourself with the arm. To get out of this position you can rotate the tracks inline with the slope while keeping your arm positioned where you won't tip. This is how we get to know the limitations of our machines. It's all about experimenting in a controlled manner. You are safer overall if you take the time to learn the limitations instead of finding out the hard way.

[@RiverValleyAcres]

I’m 30 and I definitely use the word teeter probably more than I should lol

[@DieselandIron]

It happens to the best of us. It just kept slipping out!

[@kenplummer6021]

Well done , when im teaching new people from time to time I've actually unbolted the handles from the the pedals, not good in a imsha/ osha environment but curbs a horrible habit from starting and a lot of merit with your other tips

[@DieselandIron]

If I didn't have other guys running the same machine as myself I would've unbolted the handles years ago.

[@kyleservice6098]

New operators like to slam the bucket when uncurling doesn’t look professional

[@DieselandIron]

Seasoned operators that are in new machines with couplers they aren't used to also do it. Let's not get too judgy...

[@ArthurDentZaphodBeeb]

If it's sticky material, sometimes it's the only way to clean a bucket.

[@jacobdejesus6758]

thank you for this vid. Boss has been telling me since i got on the e42 half a year ago that i’m meant to be an operator, yet i’ve have hardly heard or used most of these tips on-site. boss may be confused tmr, but he’ll be happy when the jobs over for sure

[@DieselandIron]

Thanks for watching!

[@StefanBacon]

A lot of these tips *feel* obvious when you say them, but when you're actually in the seat I'm sure it's a lot to remember.

[@DieselandIron]

It's pretty amazing the number of things you have to think about when operating a piece of equipment. As you get better and more versed in the seat the layers of complexity get deeper. As a BRAND new operator you probably aren't thinking about anything other than getting the bucket to do what you want. As a 5 or 10 year veteran you're probably thinking about how the trucks are backing in and how that impacts your cycle time. Like anything else, the more time you have the better you get and the more time you are able to save through small things you have picked up. Thanks for watching brother!

[@Tracer414]

I learn more from watching your video then all of the other videos on how to operate an excavator combined. Thank you for an awesome job.

[@DieselandIron]

Thank you so much! I really appreciate the compliment and I appreciate the support!

[@lenahdelacruz4920]

Wow!!! what a great inspiring video to watch while doing research about operators!!. i am applying for an apprenticeship today. Great video, thank you for sharing Aloha, God Bless You.

[@DieselandIron]

Good luck with your journey and keep us posted on your apprenticeship status!

[@tommaulden7308]

Getting ready to buy my first excavator in the next month or so. This video was very informative and I really appreciate being able to learn from you. Keep up the good work. Thanks

[@DieselandIron]

Thanks for watching and thanks for the comment Tom!

[@austint7533]

Might not be a bad idea to get a rental to figure out the muscle memory beforehand

[@FlameofUdun9]

Honestly this was perfect dude. Great tips. I’m not an operator but I do operate from time to time and this will help greatly

[@DieselandIron]

Thank you so much! I appreciate the comment!

[@boojiecentoobie4272]

Thank you for your videos. I am new to excavator operation and have about 30 hours on our older KX-040. We have many rutted logging roads on our mountain property and the only tool I have to fix them with is this excavator. Can you possibly do a video on how to grade 20-30 degree inclined roads? Specifically do you always work in the downhill direction ? (rather than trying to to drag material uphill).

[@DieselandIron]

This is probably what you're looking for: kzbin.info/www/bejne/i4e4cpqpZaypb8k I wouldn't always grade one direction since you will be pulling material with you as you grade. If you were to always grade downhill then you would quickly pull all of the good material to the bottom. I would almost do the opposite. The material will naturally erode downhill so you're probably better off pulling back uphill to get the material back where it belongs.

[@lemmetellyousomething679]

Learning excavator is like developing sense of third big arm. Good job friend, loved your teaching

[@DieselandIron]

Great analogy! Once you get comfortable it really does feel like an extra arm. Thank you for the compliment!

[@eamonshields2754]

Awesome stuff thanks for sharing

[@DieselandIron]

Thanks for watching!

[@Selectivebadger]

About to do a self build and operate a 3ton mini and this info will help out. Much appreciated.

[@DieselandIron]

Thanks for watching!

[@philip4588]

Do you have any tips to a new starter? getting my licence in the new year, looking for a excavator 2,4/6T that a can take with me on the trailer, what kind of diffrent work is the best to start with? and how to set price on diffrent work.

[@DieselandIron]

Do a search for starting a dirt company on my channel. We have a video that talks about that specific topic.

[@cdnbcn6164]

I love running excavator, I wish I did it more. There's some pretty talented people out there..

[@DieselandIron]

It's a fun machine to run and you never fully "get there" in terms of mastering the machine. Every time you think you are there you learn something new.

[@canadiansnowmobiledude1125]

Wicked video! I’m constantly trying to learn better ways to teach my employees on how to become better and a more efficient operators and you’ve done an excellent job of doing so! Thank you 👍

[@DieselandIron]

Happy to help! Thank you for watching and feel free to reach out if you want any videos on a specific topic.

[@nickolaslandon4640]

I have an interview coming up and I’m really excited. I really hope to get the job. Your tips have been great and guys are lucky to work with you. I hope they are as professional at this job

[@DieselandIron]

I appreciate that and good luck with the interview! Don't hesitate to reach out if you have questions going forward.

[@constantinclipa1360]

A lot of excavators use a short counterweight that does not pass the tracks so you always know where you are. Hitachi is one of them...also the best machine ever....a dream

[@wannabeairman8105]

I’m 18 starting in a construction job as a laborer/operator and I have operated an excavator a few times and at 8:40 The only thing I noticed with that is in my case at least some people are around you so you can’t leave your stick, bucket, and boom out like that other wise you’d hit someone or something around you. but, as you said you still have to be quite efficient In order to not hold people up so I was wondering what you would do in that situation

[@DieselandIron]

Anytime you are working in an area where there are lots of people/trucks/equipment I would recommend you pull in the stick and boom and stay tight to the machine. Yes, it's a tradeoff in cycle time but it's worth it in order to not kill someone or cause equipment damage. When you find yourself loading on top of a pile and just bombing trucks then I would keep the stick and boom out because you know your swing area is safe. As with anything else in this industry, you have to adapt to the situation. There aren't any "hard and fast" rules that will apply to every situation. Thanks for watching and glad to have you in the industry!

[@frankp215]

When i see a jump swing I cant help but smile😊!

[@Tinman710]

I’m considering doing this. Trying to get into a Union’s apprenticeship and follow in my Dad and grandpas footsteps. Be honest, is 28 too old to start? I do have some construction and other relevant work experience. Also trying to get OSHA certified and my CDL.

[@DieselandIron]

28 isn't too old at all. The industry is hurting for people so now is a better time than ever to get into the trade.

[@_P0tat07_]

You’re a great teacher and obviously a master operator. They say the piece of equipment is an extension of the operators body, and you absolutely prove that correct. One thing about the feeling of fear when you start to tip over, is don’t become used to it. I’ve operated a front loader on a tractor in a golf course setting for years, and at first I was very timid any time the tractor tilted at all. As I’ve improved my skill with a front loader, I’ve also gotten use to that feeling. Each time going farther and farther and I’ve ended up in some pretty dangerous situations that I could have avoided if I remembered the point at which I started feeling nervous.

[@DieselandIron]

I appreciate the compliment but I'm still learning every day! I agree with what you are saying but I want to rephrase it a bit. Get comfortable with knowing where the line is in your machine. Know what extent you can push the machine before you get to the edge. Once you have a good feel for that you can start to push the edge in a safe way. Just an example, I had to load a truck with a Cat 938 loader on a pretty extreme slope. I knew the weight transfer was going to cause the machine to tip so I positioned the machine where the truck would catch me as I started to go. I was able to dump the bucket with the truck supporting my weight. As I let go of the dirt the loader was able to regain its balance and I could back away from the truck and boom down. All that to say, you can push the edge as long as you have a way out if things start to go south. If you can safely back out of the situation if it doesn't go as planned then pushing the limit is just another example of improving your skills as an operator. Thanks for the comment brother!

[@johnladley7]

Not excavator, telehandler operator here, smooth is fast with no wasted movement let hydraulics do the work. On site new operator turns up will always ask them if skilled or just got there ticket. i am always willing to to teach and instruct new operators in the skills and drills to become a good, safe, competent and fast operator. UK house building sites telehandler the most important machine on site. great video on skills with a 360

[@DieselandIron]

Thanks for the comment brother!

[@Erik_MN]

Will try to apply some of these concepts next time I rent a mini.

[@danielsmith4986]

Thanks for the tips!!..Also coul you mke a video on how to slop a trench?.. And if we should bench or slop?..Thanks!🫡

[@DieselandIron]

Give me a bit of time and I'll get a video out for you on this topic

[@Sheubaba]

Thank you so much for this video, i will never give up 😢

[@Anthony-os8id]

I have a old kubota KH35 it's only about 1.5T. I only use it when I have yard work examples dug the back yard up to put a pool in....but I study these videos to get helpful tips I even bought a radio control hydraulic excavator and play with it to get ideas on what works well. Big kid i know expensive toys but aren't we all.

[@DieselandIron]

We are all big kids in this industry. The only questions is how much money are you willing to spend on your toys😂

[@Anthony-os8id]

@@DieselandIron Thousands 🙂

[@zates2272]

I am 45 and pretty new at this skill. Retired Army but newbie at life if you will. Thank you!

[@DieselandIron]

Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@skidrowjo]

Nice video man! Lots of good tips and thanks for the encouragement!

[@DieselandIron]

Thanks for watching!

[@steveteller1108]

How do you set up to dig a pipeline down a 2;1 slope ?

[@DieselandIron]

The same way you would dig a pipeline on a flat surface....but you'll be at an angle! In all seriousness, depending on the terrain you might need to create benches for yourself to sit on or you might need another machine with a winch to act as an anchor as you work your way down the slope.

[@pfsmith007]

Great video. I just purchased my first machine. You make it look easy. Thanks for posting this.

[@DieselandIron]

Thanks for watching and thanks for the comment!

[@severananthon5091]

What an excellent video with some important tips and tricks and what a great teacher you are. I’m 100% interested to learn how to operate those heavy equipments. And I will be so thankful to meet a teacher like you

[@DieselandIron]

Thank you Severan! I appreciate that compliment!

[@drewrbunn]

So how does this all work with the new Zero Turn machines that no longer have a rear counterweight?

[@DieselandIron]

The exact same. Zero swing machines are typically only a couple of machines within a manufacturer's lineup. They still have a counterweight but the entire design of the machine is different. The boom arm originates from the center of the machine instead of being forward on the frame. This allows you to have a smaller counterweight while still maintaining good lift capacity. As a result, all of the same concepts apply.

[@drewrbunn]

@@DieselandIron Thanks for the explanation. Has CAT, for example, had to beef up the chassis of any machines?

[@pimpcurtly]

Great video!!! Thanks so much...currently in excavator training through trade school and this vid is so helpful and positive!!! Will recommend in class tomorrow =)

[@DieselandIron]

Thanks for watching, glad it was helpful! Thank you also for recommending it!

[@andreistan2107]

I drive a 3 tona one , I don't have ticket yet ,but your video will help me a lot . I wish to drive a bigger one in future. Thank you mate

[@DieselandIron]

Anytime my man! Good luck with getting your ticket!

[@austint7533]

Even tho I only operate an excavator maybe a 1/4 of the time, this was super informative and easy to convey very complex maneuvers

[@DieselandIron]

Happy to help! Reach out if you have questions going forward!

[@daytonquibell8703]

Love the last point you brought up about this being a craft and to hone it. Im 24 I started screening topsoil when I was 17 and went straight into heavy earthworks civil road construction etc People screaming crazy egos but patience determination and drive is what s always kept me going and especially if you love running heavy machinery and most aspects...and people lol now I make great money for my age I know what I'm capable of but being an efficient operator has come to my realization it takes alot of fuking seat time no matter how good you are always learning

[@DieselandIron]

Thanks Dayton! A lot of guys get discouraged when they aren't perfect right off the bat or they feel like the look stupid when they are jerky and don't know what they are doing. I really want guys to understand that this is a skill. You never stop getting better. You never stop learning and like you mentioned, you make great money doing it! Thanks for watching brother!

[@4x4RescueThunderBay]

Right on Man, I've been in an excavator for pay for a few months now. I appreciate every tip in this video 👍

[@DieselandIron]

Congrats on the new career! Glad the videos are helpful, thanks for watching!

[@the7tongardengnome]

Awesome buddy. Thanks for the tips. I use to drive a car transporter to and from the wharf and every chance I got I would jump on to the brand new diggers and practice. I was on night shift or course so there was hardly anyone around. I felt like a kid in a candy store. Brand new trucks and sport cars. On a steep slope do you drive up forward or reverse up. I always feel the digger will fall over backwards if I drive up forward.

[@DieselandIron]

That sounds like a pretty awesome experience! These machines all feel tippy when you first start operating. The further you get into it the more you realize how stable they really are.

[@itsokswallow]

Excellent video my favorite excavator channel as of tonight

[@DieselandIron]

Thank you so much for all the kind words and the support!

[@bradbatcho4048]

been running one for along time. i am not good at training. u made a great video for people that think they can run good. nice video bud..

[@DieselandIron]

Thanks Brad! I appreciate the kind words brother.

[@dislikebutton34]

Thanks man! Preparing myself for diy rectangular basement 17x15x6m. Basic training only and videos like this are very helpful!

[@DieselandIron]

Glad they're helpful! I learned a lot of what I know from watching other operators both on KZbin and in person.

[@nathanjamesDewey]

I am saving up money to actually go take a class on how to operate these things. This video is very helpful.

[@DieselandIron]

Save the money my man. Go hire in at a company and let them train you on their dime.

[@RamminRanch]

Great video. The only the I cringed at was the bucket popping lol

[@DieselandIron]

I cringe every time as well. This machine had a coupler on it that took a substantial amount of bucket travel out of play. I was still getting a feel for that when I recorded the video

[@christopherkerr5526]

Great video, lots of great tips. Got my test in 6 weeks, only had around 30 minutes in an excavator. Complete novice. Some excellent advice. Thanks.

[@DieselandIron]

You got it. Let me know if you have any questions

[@hphillips7425]

Nice job. With good instructions like that anyone would learn quicker

[@DieselandIron]

Thank you!

[@davesvideoblog]

Great tips! Tip of the hat from a Canadian operator.

[@DieselandIron]

Thanks for watching!

[@cvfd1805]

Outstanding job on explaining.

[@DieselandIron]

Thanks Colton! I appreciate you watching!

[@skadill]

An issue that cost $ in un necessary repairs on my machines is 'operators' pull material up onto the tracks in front of cab and tool box without going ahead a bit first to roll it back off .When there is rocks or concrete left there while backing up it goes under the carbody and forces down on the top carrier shafts and bends them.

[@DieselandIron]

Great point. Loading up the tracks and swinging over that material is the primary cause for panels on the underside of the machine being bent.

[@whobee8868]

Why pull material onto the tracks?? Learn to back up and load bucket in front of you Lol

[@skadill]

@@whobee8868 The no mind lever puller, meat in the seat 'wanna be' digger drivers that never get out of the cab,let alone to grease.. Often getting bent top carrier roller because of it. i have lots of machines,and cant believe the stupidity of most 'operators'

[@whobee8868]

@@skadill agreed. Just want that paycheck have no idea how much things cost on machines not their money

[@Gudangmanganton]

Im operate excavator too zaxis 350, i love my job. Thanks man for sharing good tips and tricks.

[@DieselandIron]

Thanks for watching!

[@marleyharris4842]

Work has finally put me into a digger, so thanks for the video! Trying to get better as a digger so they keep me on it

[@1898PR]

Thank you for taking the time for us, the rookies.

[@DieselandIron]

You got it! Thanks for watching!

[@whobee8868]

The rookies become the vets!!!!

[@MrJenten10]

Bucket slapper, you should empty the bucket by pushing the dipper out, if you have the bucket positioned properly there is no need to continually slap the bucket to the stops to empty the bucket, PUSH that dipper out to the point where gravity takes over and the spoils spill out might have to roll the bucket out slightly but not to the stops with a bang every time, and in one fluid motion CROWD, FILL, SWING, EMPTY, SWING BACK TO THE DIGGING POSITION

[@DieselandIron]

So we officially have an arm chair operator on our hands. Please Dan, tell us the correct way to do everything....

[@MrJenten10]

@@DieselandIron hahaha armchair ? Currently working on a 36 inch natural gas transmission main project through the city streets in NYC already have 4 miles in the ground behind me IUOE Local 15 and Local 14 and you certainly wouldnt make it to lunchtime down here tough guy... hahaha armchair.........

[@MrJenten10]

@@DieselandIron Everybody is a pro out in a cornfield

[@DieselandIron]

@@MrJenten10 of course you are. All of you guys are the same. You're currently working on the world's biggest projects, digging 60' deep blah blah blah. Put up or shut up. Start a channel and let's see how incredible you are...

[@DieselandIron]

@@MrJenten10 move along Dan.

[@triplegothic666]

Thank you so much... now I'll know a few more tips

[@DieselandIron]

Thanks for watching!

[@nathancurran612]

Practice make perfection, also watch others, have learnt so much from watching others and asking questions. PS always wear you seat belt, have seen first hand heads through windows and broken arms from being thrown out of the seat.