do rocks damage trenchers?

[Qapla]

When some here the word "backhoe" they think of a large tractor with a front-end loader and a backhoe. However, there is also a "mini-excavator" that most good rental places should have.

These hoes are on tracks and are relatively narrow. They dig quite well and are fairly easy to operate. The can dig to a depth of 7', so digging to "code" would not be a problem since most codes seldom exceed 4'.

The idea of placing the lines side-by-side is markedly more desirable then one on top of the other.

Mini-excavators come with a variety of bucket sizes. You could use a 9", 12" or 16" to dig the ditch you are after. The hoe will also be better able to move those rocks. Backfilling with sand or dirt without the rocks makes sense. However, keep in mind that if it is 15-20 years before you need to dig that line back up, there WILL be rocks down there.

I will also add, I have worked for many years using a variety of trenchers and hoes. We have a "saw" type trencher, a Vibra-plow (pipe puller), chain trencher and a mini-excavator as well as a tractor backhoe. If I were digging the line you want, I would choose the mini-e.

 

[rogerL1961]

i appreciate everyones input. I think I will use the Mini E and at the same time dig a footing for a block fence.

is there a book for arizona that has the building codes? Does Home Depot have a book like this?

 

[whistlepig]

Best to talk to the county or city inspector. Which ever prevails in your area. We don't live in in city limits here so the county prevails. If you live in the city limits the city would prevail. The inspector is going to be the guy that says yes or no. Best to make him happy. Talking to a local contractor would be a good start.