As an excavator operator or owner, we know you’re well-acquainted with the wear and tear that effects excavator bucket cutting edges. Heavy duty work like digging or grading brings the bucket in contact with the rough ground, wearing it down, and eventually requiring replacement. That’s where a bolt-on bucket cutting edge really shines. These cutting edges come in 1 or 3-pieces, but more on that later.
When a fixed cutting edge wears down, it’s a big job to remove it and weld in a new one. With a bolt-on cutting edge, just as it sounds, bolts are removed to release the old edge, and a new cutting edge is bolted back into place.
The down time is way less, getting you right back to work. No welding required!
Another benefit of a bolt-on versus fixed cutting edge? The increased capacity of the bucket, as the cutting edge adds length to the bucket floor. This extended edge will save some wear at the bottom of the side styles, and the extra thickness created by the bolt-on cutting edge minimizes drag and wear by lifting the entire base of the bucket slightly off the ground.
At Viking West, we offer both 3 and 1-piece bolt-on cutting edges. Both offer the great features listed above, but with some distinct differences. So if you’re choosing between the two, read on as we dig into the pros and cons of each.
The PROS of 3pc Bucket Cutting Edges:
- Side sections can be rotated and replaced more frequently than the centre section, as they wear quicker.
- Side and centre sections are lower weight than one piece, making them easier and safer to handle and install.
- Side and centre sections are shorter when not assembled together, so they are easier to transport than one piece. For example, 3pc sections can fit in the bed of a pick-up truck.
- Side sections are common for a wide range of HD clean-up buckets.
The CONS of 3pc Bucket Cutting Edges:
- Side sections can come loose if fasteners are not torqued properly.
- If lengths are out of tolerance, they can leave a small gap between the edge and centre section.
- If the thickness of side and centre sections are different, they can leave a small step between the edge and centre section.
The PROS of 1pc Bucket Cutting Edges
- Fewer part numbers to manage.
- Fewer fasteners are typically required for a complete edge swap.
- No risk of side sections coming loose.
- One continuous smooth edge for the bucket.
The CONS of 1pc Bucket Cutting Edges
- You must replace the entire cutting edge, even if just the corners are worn.
- Typically, a cutting edge for 8MT and larger will be too heavy for one person to safely lift, transport or install.
- Higher inventory carrying cost if stocking for fleet of excavator attachments.
So now that you know the pros and cons of 3 and 1-piece bucket cutting edges, which one is right for you?
If you’d like to learn more, or if you’re ready to outfit your excavator with a new bolt-on cutting edge, get in touch! We’ve got the products and expertise you need to choose the very best excavator accessories.
We’re ready to take your call at 604-381-0929. For more information on Viking West’s line of buckets, fill-out our online form or give us a call.
