INDUSTRIES

Cat^® Backhoe Loaders: Side Shift or
Center Pivot?

Both machines are uniquely designed to offer distinct advantages.

CAITLIN MADDOCK-BAHR | Social Media & Digital Strategy Manager

When it comes to backhoe loaders, how do you choose between a side shift or center pivot? Designed by operators experienced in digging, trenching and excavation, each machine has something productive to offer.

What Is the Difference Between Side Shift and Center Pivot Backhoes?

Cat^® designed the 428, 432 and 434 Side Shift Backhoes to efficiently complete tasks in tight spaces. To make the machines versatile and functional, the backhoe boom and bucket are mounted on a carrier that can slide from side to side along frame rails. There are stabilizers mounted on either side of the rails that can extend up and down to keep the machine grounded. Sliding from side to side is easy for the operator, as the action can be accomplished within the cab by pressing a button.

“In terms of just hogging out as much dirt as you possibly can and maximizing the reach of your backhoe, the side shift is better,” says David Young, Cat Product Application Specialist.

A center pivot backhoe is mounted in the center of the tractor’s rear end. The boom swings from side to side from the center point, directly below where the operator sits. If you live and work in North America or South America, you’ll likely see more center pivot machines, as they are more popular.

Advantages of Center Pivot Machines

Lifting power is the main advantage of a center pivot backhoe. The machine’s stabilizers extend out to the side, well beyond the wheelbase. That gives the backhoe a bigger footprint. The physics behind wide stabilization gives the machine the capability to lift heavier loads.

Advantages of a Side Shift Backhoe

The side shift backhoe can handle plenty of weight, and it offers functionality. The four main advantages of a side shift backhoe are:

Increased Reach — With the boom on a slide frame, the machine’s reach is extended from side to side. An operator doesn’t have to move the machine and reposition as much because a side shift backhoe’s reach goes beyond the wheelbase of the vehicle. Young has extensive experience as an operator of backhoe machines, as well as design engineering and machine configuration. He says the side shift design saves time when you’re doing certain jobs like a watermain repair.

“You have to dig down on either side of that pipe,” explains David. “With a center pivot, you have to jockey the machine on either side of the pipe and re-position it to be able to do that. With a side shift, you can drop it and just slide the back end left and right while the machine stays put.”
Close-up Digging — The smaller footprint allows a side shift backhoe to dig close to walls, fences and other obstructions. It’s also easier for side shift backhoes to operate close to trucks for faster truck loading.
Visibility — Because the boom moves side to side and can be positioned anywhere along the frame, this gives the person in the cab a clearer view of the bucket. With a center pivot backhoe, the bucket is directly in the line of sight.
Better Roading — The back end of a side shift backhoe can be folded up and in, keeping the weight close to the center. That design improves ride quality. The tail of the center pivot backhoe hangs out and extends behind the machine, making it less stable and more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.

“Imagine buzzing around a city street,” says David. “The side shift is a much better machine when it comes to roading. You get a dimensional advantage and a ride-quality advantage.”

The best machine is the one that best fits your specific application. To find out which backhoe loader is right for you, contact your Cat dealer and check out your financing options.

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David Young explains the differences between side shift and center pivot machines.

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CAITLIN MADDOCK-BAHR

Social Media & Digital Strategy Manager

Caitlin Maddock-Bahr exercises her storytelling expertise as a social media and digital strategy manager. In this role, she not only helps Caterpillar connect with their audience, but helps customers connect with the brand.

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Cat^® Backhoe Loaders: Side Shift or
Center Pivot?