Buckets

Two types of front-end loader buckets are commonly used: a general-purpose bucket (fig. 9-6) and a multi-segment (4-in-1) bucket, also known as a multipurpose (4-in-1) bucket (fig. 9-7). Both types may be equipped on crawler or rubber-tired wheeled loaders.

The "general-purpose bucket" is a single-piece bucket constructed of heavy-duty, all-welded steel with bolted or welded replaceable cutting edges. Also attached are bolt-on replaceable teeth (fig. 9-8) that allows the bucket to be used for excavation of medium-to-hard materials.

The "multipurpose (4-in-1) bucket" is also constructed of heavy-duty, all-welded steel with bolted or welded replaceable cutting edges. This bucket also has bolt-on replaceable teeth attached that provide for excavation of medium-to-hard materials. However, the multipurpose (4-in-1) bucket has a twopiece construction that makes it more versatile than the

Figure 9-6.-General-purpose bucket.

^{Figure 9-7.-Multipurpose (4-in-1) bucket.}

general-purpose single-piece bucket. For example, the multipurpose (4-in-1) bucket can be used as a clamshell, a dozer, a scraper, or as a skid shovel.

Forklift

The forklift attachment is a useful tool at remote project sites for unloading building material. Care must be taken not to overload the loader when using the forklift attachment.

Figure 9-8.-Bucket teeth.

NOTE: A loader equipped with a forklift attachment must be operated using the same techniques of operation and safety rules designed for forklifts.

Backhoe

The backhoe attachment is a positive digging tool. It is used to dig below the ground, such as trenches, combat fighting positions, building footers, and foundations.

The backhoe is attached to the loader frame with a ridged coupling. The hydraulics use a quick-disconnect coupling to tap the loader hydraulic system for a power source.