Most backhoes are composed of similar parts: a tractor, an excavating attachment at the rear, and a front loader attachment, and an operator cab.
1. Tractor Base: The tractor is mounted on wheels for ease of movement on uneven terrain. The base supports the bucket.
2. Bucket: When the tractor moves forward, the front bucket is lowered and scoops materials. The lift arms, supported by the tractor frame, raise and lower the bucket. The rear excavating attachment, composed of a boom, dipper arm, and bucket, operates by lowering the bucket down and into the ground. By moving the boom up and the dipper arm in toward the tractor, the bucket is filled with material.
3. Front Loader Attachment: The front loader attachment is mounted at the front of the machine and can and can be used to move loads and also accomplish heavy lifting tasks.
4. Operator Cab: The seat in the cab where the operator sits can swivel 180 degrees, allowing the operator access to the backhoe controls.