Getting the trencher size right means you can hit the depth and width your jobs demand without pushing your skid steer past its limits. Sizing comes down to boom length, cutting width, and attachment weight—all matched to your machine capacity and the work you do. Here's how the dimensions line up and what they mean for performance and productivity.
Understanding Trencher Digging Depth
Digging depth is the maximum distance the trencher can cut below ground level. TGEC trenchers range from 500 mm to 1220 mm depending on boom length. The 36 in boom models (TG-TCR910) give you adjustable depths from 500 mm up to 960 mm, while the 48 in boom (TG-TCR1220) stretches from 690 mm to 1220 mm. Depth is adjusted through boom position settings or optional depth control kits, so you can set a consistent depth across the whole run.
Factors That Determine Maximum Depth
Boom length is the biggest factor—longer booms reach deeper, but they also need larger, more powerful skid steers to handle the extra weight and digging forces. Beyond that, machine size and lift capacity, soil type and compaction, chain and tooth condition, and operator technique all come into play. Harder or more compacted soil can cut into your practical depth even if the boom can physically go deeper. Always make sure your skid steer's rated operating capacity can handle the attachment at full depth, and that your hydraulic system has enough flow for efficient cutting when you're all the way down.
Trench Width Considerations
All TGEC trencher configurations come with a standard 150 mm (5.9 in) cutting width. That works for most utility conduit, irrigation tubing, drainage pipe, and electrical cable. The width is set by the chain and tooth setup, and alternative widths may be available through custom configuration for specialized work. When choosing width, factor in the outer diameter of the pipe or cable you're installing, plus clearance for backfill and compaction. Narrower trenches mean less soil disturbance, less backfill, and faster restoration—but you still need enough room to work the pipe in properly.
How Machine Size Affects Trencher Performance
Your machine size dictates what trencher you can run effectively. Mini skid steers with MP600 mounts typically pair with lighter trenchers like the TG-TCR910(36IN)-MP600, which weighs 292 kg and reaches 960 mm deep. Compact machines with MP910 mounts can handle the TG-TCR910(36IN)-MP910 at 308 kg. Mid-frame machines with universal MP1220 quick-attach can step up to the TG-TCR960(38IN) and TG-TCR1220(48IN) models, at 317 kg and 350 kg respectively. Bigger machines give you more lift capacity, higher hydraulic flow, and better stability at full depth. Push a trencher that's too big for your machine and you'll get instability, slower work, and extra wear on both the attachment and the loader.
Selecting Depth for Common Applications
Different jobs call for different depths. Residential electrical and irrigation lines usually need 300 mm to 600 mm. Municipal water and gas lines often require 600 mm to 900 mm, and some utility codes call for deeper burial. Road drainage and agricultural tile may need 900 mm to 1200 mm or more. Always check local codes before you settle on a depth. If your work spans a range of depths, pick a trencher with an adjustable range that covers your deepest typical requirement—not just the bare minimum.
Width Selection for Utility Installation
For utility work, trench width needs to fit the pipe or cable diameter plus bedding material and working space. The standard 150 mm width handles most residential electrical conduit, small irrigation tubing, and communication cables. Larger water pipes, gas lines, or drainage tile may need a wider setup. Make sure the width gives you room for proper pipe placement, bedding, and compaction without risking damage to the pipe. Narrower trenches are generally better—less excavation, less soil disturbance, faster backfill—but never so narrow that installation becomes a struggle.
Final Sizing Recommendations
Before you settle on a trencher size, list out your typical project requirements: maximum trench depth, required width, usual soil conditions, and the skid steer models you run. Choose a boom length that covers your deepest typical need with a little margin for harder ground. Confirm that attachment weight plus dynamic digging forces stay within your machine's rated operating capacity. Verify that your auxiliary hydraulic flow meets the trencher's requirements. The skid steer trencher product page has detailed specs for each configuration. For more on overall selection, check our skid steer trencher selection guide. If irrigation is your main work, our irrigation installation guide has application-specific sizing advice.
