Renting an Excavator with a Third Member Shear for Demolition Work

[MikePhua]

Contractors seeking to rent an excavator equipped with a third member shear in New Jersey should prioritize companies with specialized demolition fleets, hydraulic expertise, and proven safety records. These machines are essential for structural teardown, scrap processing, and high-volume metal cutting, especially in urban environments where precision and speed matter.
Third Member Shear Configuration Explained
A third member shear is a hydraulic attachment mounted on the stick of an excavator, rather than replacing the bucket linkage. This configuration allows for faster installation, better control, and reduced wear on the boom and stick components. Unlike rotating shears or bucket-mounted shears, third member units are fixed in orientation but offer superior cutting force and durability.
Popular shear models include:

• Genesis GXP Series
  
• LaBounty MSD Series
  
• Fortress FS Series
  

These shears are typically paired with 45–90 ton class excavators, depending on the material thickness and cutting requirements.
Terminology Notes

• Third Member Shear: A non-rotating shear mounted directly to the excavator stick using a bracket and hydraulic couplers.
  
• Rotation Shear: A shear with 360-degree rotation, often mounted in place of the bucket linkage.
  
• Carrier Weight Class: The operating weight of the excavator, which determines compatible shear size and hydraulic flow.
  
• Hydraulic Flow Rate: The volume of hydraulic fluid delivered per minute, critical for shear performance.
  

Choosing the Right Rental Provider
In New Jersey, demolition contractors often turn to regional equipment specialists who maintain fleets of high-reach excavators and shear-equipped units. Key criteria include:

• Inventory of Shear-Ready Excavators: Machines with auxiliary hydraulics, reinforced booms, and quick coupler systems.
  
• On-Site Support and Delivery: Ability to deliver and set up the machine at job sites with minimal downtime.
  
• Attachment Expertise: Technicians who understand flow rates, pressure settings, and shear maintenance.
  
• Safety Compliance: Machines equipped with cab guards, cameras, and emergency shutoffs.
  

One well-known provider in the region is Company Wrench, which offers rental packages that include Genesis shears and trained field support. Their fleet includes CAT, Komatsu, and Volvo carriers modified for demolition use.
Field Anecdotes and Practical Insight
In Newark, a contractor used a rented CAT 345C with a Genesis GXP 660 shear to dismantle a steel-framed warehouse. The third member setup allowed for rapid cutting of I-beams and rebar bundles without repositioning the machine. The operator noted that the fixed shear orientation was ideal for horizontal cuts and reduced the need for boom articulation.
In Trenton, a scrap yard deployed a Komatsu PC490 with a LaBounty MSD shear to process railcars. The third member mount provided stability and minimized hydraulic hose wear, which had been a recurring issue with rotating shears.
Recommendations for Contractors

• Specify Shear Type When Renting: Third member vs rotating shears have different capabilities and mounting requirements.
  
• Confirm Hydraulic Compatibility: Ensure the excavator’s flow rate matches the shear’s needs—typically 150–250 L/min.
  
• Request Operator Training: Even experienced excavator operators benefit from shear-specific instruction.
  
• Inspect Couplers and Hoses: Look for leaks, wear, and proper routing before starting work.
  
• Use Shear for Intended Materials: Avoid cutting hardened steel or oversized beams beyond rated capacity.
  

Final Thoughts
Renting an excavator with a third member shear is a strategic move for demolition and scrap operations that demand speed, precision, and reliability. In New Jersey, specialized providers offer turnkey solutions with the right equipment, support, and safety features. By understanding shear configurations and rental best practices, contractors can maximize productivity and minimize risk on the job site.