Yesterday, 04:11 PM
The Rise of Scraper Operations in California
California has long been a proving ground for large-scale earthmoving, with its sprawling infrastructure projects, expansive residential developments, and mountainous terrain demanding high-capacity equipment. Among the most iconic machines in this environment are motor scrapers—self-loading, high-speed haulers capable of moving massive volumes of soil with precision and speed. The state’s top contractors have built scraper fleets that rival those of mining operations, often deploying dozens of units on a single project.
From the 1950s through the early 2000s, California’s scraper culture evolved alongside Caterpillar’s development of the 631, 637, 651, and 657 series. These twin-engine giants became synonymous with mass grading, and their operators earned reputations for speed, coordination, and mechanical skill.
Major Fleet Owners and Their Equipment
Several companies have distinguished themselves by the size and quality of their scraper fleets:
Fleet composition varies by contractor, but common configurations include:
Impact of Emissions Regulations and Market Conditions
California’s stringent emissions laws have forced many contractors to retire older Tier 0 and Tier 1 machines. This led to a wave of fleet reductions and auctions, with companies upgrading to Tier 3 and Tier 4 Final units. The housing market collapse also parked many scrapers, but recent infrastructure funding has revived demand.
Strategies to adapt include:
Operator Culture and Skill Requirements
Scraper operators in California are known for their precision and speed. Operating a twin-engine scraper requires:
Conclusion
California’s big dirt scraper operators represent a unique blend of mechanical power, operational finesse, and logistical coordination. Their fleets shape the landscape—literally—by moving millions of cubic yards across highways, subdivisions, and industrial sites. As regulations evolve and technology advances, these contractors continue to adapt, proving that in the world of earthmoving, experience and horsepower still rule the dirt.
California has long been a proving ground for large-scale earthmoving, with its sprawling infrastructure projects, expansive residential developments, and mountainous terrain demanding high-capacity equipment. Among the most iconic machines in this environment are motor scrapers—self-loading, high-speed haulers capable of moving massive volumes of soil with precision and speed. The state’s top contractors have built scraper fleets that rival those of mining operations, often deploying dozens of units on a single project.
From the 1950s through the early 2000s, California’s scraper culture evolved alongside Caterpillar’s development of the 631, 637, 651, and 657 series. These twin-engine giants became synonymous with mass grading, and their operators earned reputations for speed, coordination, and mechanical skill.
Major Fleet Owners and Their Equipment
Several companies have distinguished themselves by the size and quality of their scraper fleets:
- Sukut Construction
Known for operating one of the largest fleets of 657E scrapers in the country. Sukut’s reputation for aggressive production earned them the nickname “Screams & Panic” among union operators. Their machines are often seen on freeway expansions, landfill grading, and flood control projects.
- Desilva Gates Construction
Reportedly owns the largest fleet of 657s in California, including a mix of 657E and older 666 models. Their fleet has been spotted on major highway and subdivision developments, with up to 24 units purchased in a single year.
- Teichert Construction
A legacy contractor with deep roots in California’s infrastructure history. Teichert frequently partners with Granite Construction and operates a mix of 637G and 657E scrapers on residential and commercial grading projects.
- Granite Construction
A national player with strong California presence. Their scraper fleet fluctuates based on project demand, but they’ve fielded large spreads of 637s and 657s on freeway and airport expansions.
- Kiewit Pacific Co.
Deployed 22 657Es on the Schaeffer Ranch project, showcasing their capacity for high-volume earthmoving. Kiewit’s fleet is often mobilized for federal highway contracts and large-scale civil works.
- McCoy & Sons
Operates a fleet of 660 and 657 scrapers, often seen on private development sites. Their machines are maintained in excellent condition despite their age.
- Independent Construction Company
Known for running a diverse fleet including 666, 657, 637, and 631 models. Their versatility allows them to tackle both mass grading and finish work.
- Pinnick Inc.
Formerly Signs & Pinnick, this contractor runs a fast-moving fleet of 657Es. Their speed and efficiency have earned them a reputation for rapid dirt movement.
- Coburn Equipment Inc. and Cobra Equipment Rental
These firms specialize in scraper rentals, supplying machines to contractors who need temporary fleet expansion.
- Don McCoy Corporation
Maintains a fleet of older scrapers in pristine condition. Their equipment is often seen on smaller grading jobs where reliability matters more than speed.
- CA Rasmussen
Previously operated a large fleet of 666s and 657s, though recent auctions suggest a scale-down. Their historical photos show deep involvement in Southern California grading.
- MESA Contracting, STICE, and Earth Tek Engineering
These firms round out the list of significant scraper operators, each with their own niche in regional grading and infrastructure work.
Fleet composition varies by contractor, but common configurations include:
- Twin-engine push-pull 657E units for steep grades and heavy cuts
- Single-engine 637G scrapers for finish grading and tighter turns
- Older 651B and 666 models for backup or light-duty work
- Support equipment such as D10R push dozers, water pulls, and service trucks
- Staggered loading cycles to maintain continuous haul
- Push-pull pairs for rapid cut-and-load in cohesive soils
- GPS integration for grade control and cycle optimization
- Night shifts to maximize production during cooler hours
Impact of Emissions Regulations and Market Conditions
California’s stringent emissions laws have forced many contractors to retire older Tier 0 and Tier 1 machines. This led to a wave of fleet reductions and auctions, with companies upgrading to Tier 3 and Tier 4 Final units. The housing market collapse also parked many scrapers, but recent infrastructure funding has revived demand.
Strategies to adapt include:
- Retrofitting older machines with emissions kits
- Leasing newer units during peak season
- Partnering with rental firms for short-term fleet expansion
- Investing in hybrid or electric support vehicles
Operator Culture and Skill Requirements
Scraper operators in California are known for their precision and speed. Operating a twin-engine scraper requires:
- Coordinated throttle and brake control
- Awareness of blade depth and bowl fill
- Communication with push dozer operators
- Terrain reading and cycle timing
Conclusion
California’s big dirt scraper operators represent a unique blend of mechanical power, operational finesse, and logistical coordination. Their fleets shape the landscape—literally—by moving millions of cubic yards across highways, subdivisions, and industrial sites. As regulations evolve and technology advances, these contractors continue to adapt, proving that in the world of earthmoving, experience and horsepower still rule the dirt.
