Which Bucket Fits My Excavator? Are Excavator Buckets Universal?

When it comes to fitting excavator buckets and attachments, many operators wonder if there is a universal standard that applies to all machines. This guide will address the common question of whether excavator buckets are universal and provide a detailed explanation of how to determine the right bucket for your specific excavator. By understanding the intricacies of bucket fitments and the essential measurements required, you can ensure that you select the correct equipment for your excavator, optimising performance and efficiency on the job site.

Are Excavator Buckets Universal?

In short; no, excavator bucket sizes are not universal. However, there are times where machine fitments are often crossed over, so buckets that fit on one excavator will also work on other excavators. For example, a standard excavator bucket to suit Bobcat E20, will fit on a standard Doosan DX19 mini excavator, or a Kubota K008-3 excavator attachment will also fit a CAT 300.9D excavator. To complicate matters further, when you start to look at larger excavators, such as 12 ton and 20 ton machines, they are often fitted with a hydraulic quick couplers which feature a travelling latch. This means that the buckets that can be used on this machine are almost always universal, as the hydraulic hitch will pick up the slack between the pin centres of different sized buckets.

Rhinox Excavator Bucket Sizes - Widths & Capacities

It's important to remember that excavator bucket sizes will effect how your machine will perform. The larger excavator buckets are generally heavier because they require more material to be manufactured. This also means that larger excavator buckets can hold more material which will further increase the weight when operating. Excavators equipped with oversized buckets are prone to tipping over, which can damage the machine, endanger the operator, and pose a risk to anyone nearby. On the other hand, smaller buckets, such as the 6” digging bucket, are difficult to find from suppliers or manufacturers. This is because the 6” bucket is typically too narrow to mount hangers with enough dipper gap for the machine's arm to fit through. However, Rhinox has developed a 6” bucket that can be easily fitted onto many compact mini excavator. At Rhinox, we also offer 3" to 6" digging buckets, known as deep dig or micro trenching buckets. Learn more about micro trenching buckets.

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Which Bucket Will Fit My Excavator?

To determine which buckets and attachments fit your excavator, you need to know the pin dimensions of your machine. Specifically, you must measure three dimensions: Pin Diameter, Pin Centres, and Dipper Gap. For this, you will need an excavator bucket or attachment that you know fits your machine, along with a tape measure or ruler. We recommend using a measuring device that can measure in millimetres (mm) for greater accuracy. When purchasing buckets, attachments, or hitches from a manufacturer, these pin dimensions will be requested to determine the precise model that will fit your mini digger or excavator. If you don't have an attachment available, follow the steps in the video below to learn how to measure your excavator without any buckets.

How To Measure Pin Dimensions

How To Measure the Pin Diameter Measuring the pin diameter is straightforward. Take one of the pins you currently use to attach your excavator bucket and measure its widest part. The easiest way to do this is with a set of vernier callipers, but you can also use a tape measure or ruler. Alternatively, you can measure the inside of the hole on the hanger. Keep in mind that if the bucket is well-used, there may be a few millimetres of wear.

How To Measure the Dipper Gap The dipper gap is the internal measurement between the bucket hangers, where the main arm of the excavator and your bucket link fit. Measure the smallest internal size, usually found between the bosses. The easiest way to do this is with a tape measure or ruler. You can also measure the outside width of the bucket link, but this method can be less accurate due to wear, so use it only if absolutely necessary.

How To Measure the Pin Centres The final measurement you need is the pin centres, which is the distance between the centres of the two bucket pins. The easiest way to measure this is with a ruler or tape measure. Instead of estimating the centre of the pins, measure from the front edge of one pin to the front edge of the other pin.

Purchase your excavator buckets, attachments & hitches!

If you're interested in purchasing a bucket or attachment that fits your specific dimensions, please reach out to us directly or search for the correct attachments based on your measurements. To ensure an optimal fit, it’s essential to provide accurate pin dimensions, as this helps us guide you to the right attachment. With the correct fit, you can maximize the efficiency and performance of your excavator, reducing wear and tear and improving job productivity. Let us help you find a high-quality attachment that meets your needs and boosts your equipment's capabilities.