Adding a Stick to Your Excavator: Benefits and Considerations

[MikePhua]

When it comes to excavators, versatility and productivity are paramount. One of the common modifications that can be made to an excavator is adding a stick, which refers to lengthening the boom or adding additional arms to extend the reach of the machine. This modification can make a significant difference in the machine’s capabilities, particularly when dealing with larger or more complex projects.
This article will explore the benefits, challenges, and considerations when deciding whether to add a stick to your excavator, as well as what it entails in terms of costs, functionality, and performance.
Why Add a Stick?
An excavator’s stick, or dipper arm, is an essential part of the boom system. Adding or extending a stick enhances the machine’s reach and digging depth, making it suitable for tasks that require more distance or depth. There are several situations where this modification might be beneficial:

• Larger Digging Radius: The primary reason to add a stick is to increase the machine’s reach. This is particularly helpful on construction sites where deeper trenches, foundations, or other excavation projects are necessary.
  
• Enhanced Reach for High Excavation Tasks: In tasks like lifting or placing materials at higher elevations, an extended stick allows the operator to reach areas that a standard boom might not be able to.
  
• Better Reach for Tight Spaces: In tight spaces, an added stick can help maneuver the arm more effectively, reducing the need to reposition the entire machine constantly.
  
• Better Productivity in Deep Excavation: For digging trenches or holes, an added stick can reach deeper areas without needing to reposition the excavator.
  

Types of Stick Extensions
There are two main types of stick extensions that can be considered for excavators:

1. Fixed Extension: A fixed extension is a permanently installed part that extends the original stick. This type of extension is ideal for projects that require consistent extra reach and depth.
   • Pros: Once installed, it’s reliable, does not require adjustments, and is perfect for projects that need a consistent performance boost.
     
   • Cons: It cannot be removed or adjusted, which means if the extra reach is no longer necessary, the machine remains longer and heavier than it needs to be.
     
2. Telescopic Extension: A telescopic stick extension allows the operator to adjust the length of the stick depending on the job requirements. This provides flexibility to extend or retract the stick based on the task at hand.
   • Pros: Adjustable to suit different needs, providing versatility across various types of work.
     
   • Cons: Generally more complex and can be more expensive due to the extra components required to operate the telescopic function.
     

Benefits of Adding a Stick to Your Excavator
The decision to add a stick to an excavator can be influenced by various factors, from the size of the project to the complexity of the job site. Here are some key benefits of making this upgrade:

1. Improved Reach and Versatility: With a longer stick, you can handle a wider range of tasks, from deep trenching to reaching over obstacles. This can increase your machine’s utility in a variety of settings, from urban construction sites to agricultural applications.
   
2. Increased Digging Depth: Adding a stick provides the advantage of increased digging depth, which is especially useful for excavation projects that require digging deeper than usual, such as foundation work, trenching, or waterline installation.
   
3. More Lifting Capacity: With greater reach, the excavator can handle tasks like lifting heavy loads and placing materials at higher elevations, without the need for additional equipment or personnel.
   
4. Enhanced Jobsite Productivity: A stick extension can significantly reduce the need for repositioning, as the machine can reach farther and complete tasks more efficiently, leading to faster project completion times.
   
5. Cost-Effectiveness: In some cases, it might be more cost-effective to extend the reach of an existing machine rather than purchasing a larger, more expensive excavator.
   

Challenges and Considerations
While adding a stick to an excavator has its clear benefits, it’s also important to consider the potential challenges and limitations that come with this modification.

1. Cost of Modification: The expense of adding a stick varies based on the type of extension and the specific make and model of the excavator. Fixed extensions are generally cheaper, but telescopic extensions can be costly due to their complexity.
   • Additional Costs: In addition to the cost of the stick extension itself, there may be additional expenses, such as labor costs for installation, testing, and calibration. Custom parts may also need to be fabricated, depending on the machine.
     
2. Weight and Stability: Adding a stick can affect the weight distribution of the excavator. The additional weight can place more strain on the machine's undercarriage, making it important to ensure that the equipment can handle the added load.
   • Stability Issues: A longer reach may also impact the stability of the machine, particularly when operating on uneven or sloped ground. The machine's center of gravity changes with an extended stick, which may require operators to adjust their working methods to avoid tipping.
     
3. Reduced Maneuverability: The longer the stick, the less maneuverable the excavator may become. Larger sticks may limit the operator’s ability to maneuver in tight spaces, especially when working near other equipment or structures.
   
4. Hydraulic Demands: A longer stick requires more hydraulic power to function. If the excavator is not equipped with the appropriate hydraulic capacity, performance could be compromised, leading to slower response times or even hydraulic failure in extreme cases.
   
5. Maintenance and Durability: Extended sticks might experience more wear and tear compared to standard sticks. Increased stress on the mechanical components and hydraulic systems means that the machine will require more frequent maintenance and inspection to ensure it operates at peak efficiency.
   

Installation Process
The installation of a stick extension is a complex process that involves the removal of the current stick, fitting the extension (whether fixed or telescopic), and recalibrating the hydraulic systems to accommodate the added reach. The process typically involves the following steps:

• Removal of Existing Stick: The original stick is removed carefully to ensure that no damage occurs to other components during the process.
  
• Installation of Extension: The new stick is securely attached, ensuring proper alignment and compatibility with the excavator’s hydraulic system.
  
• Hydraulic Recalibration: The hydraulic components are recalibrated to handle the additional load and longer reach. This step is crucial to ensure that the extended stick operates smoothly.
  
• Testing and Adjustments: After installation, the machine is tested for functionality, including testing the full range of motion and ensuring the stick operates as expected.
  

Final Thoughts
Adding a stick to an excavator is a valuable modification for increasing the machine’s reach, lifting capacity, and versatility on the job site. However, it’s important to weigh the benefits against the potential challenges, including cost, stability, and hydraulic demands. By carefully assessing the machine's needs and ensuring that the extension is compatible, an extended stick can significantly enhance an excavator’s performance and productivity, ultimately making it a more valuable asset for a wide variety of tasks.
When considering a stick extension, it’s important to consult with an expert in heavy equipment modifications, such as a dealership or certified technician, to ensure that the project is carried out correctly and safely. Proper planning and installation will allow you to maximize the potential of your excavator and improve overall project efficiency.