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The Bantam Brand and Its Historical Footprint
Bantam, originally a division of Koehring Company, was a prominent name in the development of hydraulic excavators during the mid-20th century. Known for compact, truck-mounted and crawler-mounted machines, Bantam excavators were widely used in municipal works, utility trenching, and small-scale construction. The S-155 HoeKruiser was one of their later models, designed to offer mobility and versatility in a compact package. While exact production numbers are scarce, Bantam machines were distributed across North America and parts of Europe, often through regional dealers and government contracts.
Design Features of the S-155 HoeKruiser
The S-155 HoeKruiser was a truck-mounted hydraulic excavator, built for rapid deployment and ease of transport. Unlike crawler excavators, it could travel on highways without a trailer, making it ideal for utility companies and road crews.
Key features included:
Terminology Explained
Finding parts for the S-155 today is difficult due to the age of the machine and the dissolution of Bantam’s original manufacturing lines. However, restoration is possible through:
A Story from the Field
In upstate New York, a contractor acquired a Bantam S-155 to restore a historic canal lock. The machine had sat idle for over a decade, but its frame and boom were intact. After sourcing a parts manual and rebuilding the hydraulic pump, the contractor fabricated new bushings and replaced the engine with a remanufactured Detroit Diesel. The excavator was used to clear debris and shape embankments, proving that even vintage iron can still serve a purpose.
Comparing to Modern Compact Excavators
Compared to a Takeuchi TB135, a modern compact excavator with advanced hydraulics and electronic controls, the S-155 is mechanically simpler but less precise. The TB135 offers:
Recommendations for Owners and Restorers
The Bantam S-155 HoeKruiser is a relic of hydraulic innovation from a bygone era. While parts are scarce and documentation limited, its mechanical simplicity and durable design make it a candidate for restoration and light-duty use. For those willing to invest time and creativity, the S-155 offers a unique blend of history and utility that modern machines often lack.
Bantam, originally a division of Koehring Company, was a prominent name in the development of hydraulic excavators during the mid-20th century. Known for compact, truck-mounted and crawler-mounted machines, Bantam excavators were widely used in municipal works, utility trenching, and small-scale construction. The S-155 HoeKruiser was one of their later models, designed to offer mobility and versatility in a compact package. While exact production numbers are scarce, Bantam machines were distributed across North America and parts of Europe, often through regional dealers and government contracts.
Design Features of the S-155 HoeKruiser
The S-155 HoeKruiser was a truck-mounted hydraulic excavator, built for rapid deployment and ease of transport. Unlike crawler excavators, it could travel on highways without a trailer, making it ideal for utility companies and road crews.
Key features included:
- Hydraulic boom and dipper arm with a reach of approximately 15–18 feet
- Diesel-powered engine, often sourced from Cummins or Detroit Diesel, depending on year and configuration
- 360-degree swing capability via a hydraulic turntable
- Outriggers for stability during digging operations
- Operator cab with mechanical levers, predating joystick controls
Terminology Explained
- HoeKruiser: Bantam’s branding for mobile excavators mounted on truck frames.
- Outriggers: Extendable supports that stabilize the machine during digging.
- Swing Gear: The mechanism that allows the upper structure to rotate.
Finding parts for the S-155 today is difficult due to the age of the machine and the dissolution of Bantam’s original manufacturing lines. However, restoration is possible through:
- Salvage yards specializing in vintage equipment
- Custom machining of bushings, pins, and hydraulic fittings
- Cross-referencing engine and pump components with other industrial machines from the same era
A Story from the Field
In upstate New York, a contractor acquired a Bantam S-155 to restore a historic canal lock. The machine had sat idle for over a decade, but its frame and boom were intact. After sourcing a parts manual and rebuilding the hydraulic pump, the contractor fabricated new bushings and replaced the engine with a remanufactured Detroit Diesel. The excavator was used to clear debris and shape embankments, proving that even vintage iron can still serve a purpose.
Comparing to Modern Compact Excavators
Compared to a Takeuchi TB135, a modern compact excavator with advanced hydraulics and electronic controls, the S-155 is mechanically simpler but less precise. The TB135 offers:
- Pilot-operated joystick controls
- Zero tail swing for tight spaces
- Advanced diagnostics and emissions compliance
Recommendations for Owners and Restorers
- Document all serial numbers and casting marks for parts sourcing
- Replace hydraulic hoses with modern equivalents rated for 3,000 psi
- Use synthetic hydraulic fluid to reduce wear in older pumps
- Install LED work lights and backup alarms to improve safety
The Bantam S-155 HoeKruiser is a relic of hydraulic innovation from a bygone era. While parts are scarce and documentation limited, its mechanical simplicity and durable design make it a candidate for restoration and light-duty use. For those willing to invest time and creativity, the S-155 offers a unique blend of history and utility that modern machines often lack.
