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Backyard easement machines are essential for reaching utility poles and infrastructure in tight, hard-to-access areas, but the right accessories can make them even more efficient, versatile and easy to use. Whether you need to transport your machine, lift heavy transformers or improve job site efficiency, having the right add-ons can make all the difference.
Here are six must-have accessories for backyard utility machines that every crew should consider.
1. Trailer – The Essential Transport Solution
Before you can even put your backyard utility machine to work, you need to get it to the job site – and that’s where a high-quality trailer is a must. Unlike bucket trucks, backyard lifts and digger derricks are often tracked machines that need to be towed to each work location. A properly rated trailer ensures:
- Safe and secure transport of your easement machine.
- Easy loading and unloading, minimizing setup time.
- Protection for your equipment while on the road.
Without a trailer, you would not be able to get your machine to the job site, making it an absolute necessity to own.
2. Recovery Winch – A Must for Tough Conditions
Utility crews often work in rugged environments where mud, snow or uneven terrain can make navigation difficult. A recovery winch is a lifesaver when your machine gets stuck or needs assistance climbing out of tough spots.
Skylift offers two powerful recovery winch options:
- Electric Recovery Winch: Provides a maximum pulling capacity of 16,500 lbs., ideal for quick recoveries.
- Hydraulic Recovery Winch: Rated for 15,000 lbs., offering consistent pulling power for demanding job sites.
3. Material Handling Jib – Lift & Place Heavy Equipment with Ease
Utility work often involves lifting and installing heavy equipment, such as transformers, insulators and hardware. A material handling jib allows you to lift and position transformers effortlessly, reducing strain on workers and improving safety and efficiency.
Skylift’s material handling jib is designed for backyard applications, with the ability to handle up to 1,000 lbs. and integrate seamlessly with much of Skylift’s equipment.
4. Pad Mount Carrier – Simplify Transformer Transport
A pad mount carrier is designed to transport transformers to and from the job site efficiently. Instead of relying on separate transport equipment, a pad mount carrier attaches directly to your machine. This minimizes the amount of equipment you need to use and therefore makes crews more efficient.
Skylift’s pad mount carrier is specifically designed for backyard applications. Like all of our backyard equipment, it can fit easily between standard 36-inch gates. Lastly, depending on the machine that you have, it’s rated to carry anywhere from 1,000 to 3,000 pounds.
5. Dual Utility Bucket – Get the Job Done Faster
A dual utility bucket allows two workers to go up at the same time, increasing productivity without sacrificing maneuverability in tight spaces. Unlike larger bucket trucks, Skylift offers a compact dual bucket system that still works in backyard applications.
This dual bucket system is available for all our digger derrick units, including:
However, we also have the option for a two person bucket (48″x24″) on Skylift bucket lifts, including:
If your crew frequently works in pairs, upgrading to a dual or two-person bucket system can significantly boost efficiency and job site performance.
6. Radio Remote – Improve Precision & Safety
While this used to be an add-on accessory, all Skylift bucket machines now come standard with a radio remote, as it’s proved itself to be a critical safety feature.
Wireless radio remote controls allow operators to remotely control drive and boom operations, providing greater precision and flexibility. Instead of being confined to the machine, an operator can:
- Control movements from a distance, which can be helpful in certain situations when navigating around tight spaces.
- Operate the boom safely from the bucket, allowing for greater control and safety when in the air.
- Control digger derrick operations with a better view of the digging site, when the on-board control’s positioning may have a bad view.
Check out Skylift’s radio remote control.
Find These & Other Utility Accessories at Skylift
The right accessories can transform how you work, making your backyard utility machine more efficient, versatile and productive. Skylift offers a wide range of parts and accessories to help utility crews tackle any job with confidence.
Want to learn more? Check out Skylift’s Parts and Accessories page or contact us today to find add-ons for your equipment.
