Lifting safely and efficiently with your Wild-Cat compact excavator requires proper technique, jobsite awareness, and understanding your machine’s limits.

Here are five essential tips to improve lifting performance and maintain safety on the jobsite:

1️⃣ Assess the Jobsite & Level the Work Area

Before lifting, always examine the jobsite conditions.

• Identify overhead or ground-level obstacles that could interfere with the lift.
• When working on a slope, level the area whenever possible.
• If leveling is not possible, position the excavator with the blade facing downhill.
• Avoid working across slopes or swinging the load downhill.
• Keep the boom centered and the load as close to the ground as possible for maximum stability.
• Avoid operating on slopes greater than 25 degrees.

Proper positioning significantly reduces tipping risk.

2️⃣ Understand Your Lifting Capacity

Every compact excavator has lifting limits based on:

• Hydraulic capacity (machine lifting power)
• Tipping capacity (machine stability)

Hydraulic limitations occur when the machine lacks power to lift a load.
Tipping limitations occur when the machine begins lifting off the ground.

Always consult the manufacturer’s lift chart to determine safe lifting capacity based on:

• Lift height
• Distance from centerline
• Machine configuration

Operating within these limits protects both the machine and the operator.

3️⃣ Correctly Interpret the Lift Chart

Even experienced operators must follow the lift chart.

The lift chart provides safe lifting capacity based on:

• Lift height
• Swing radius
• Boom length
• Arm length
• Counterweight configuration
• Track width

Never estimate lifting capacity. Always verify against the official chart.

4️⃣ Follow Pick-and-Carry Safety Guidelines

When performing pick-and-carry operations:

• Use the shortest lifting radius possible
• Keep the load low to the ground
• Use tag lines (strong guide ropes) to prevent load swinging
• Travel slowly and adjust speed based on jobsite conditions

Maintaining control of the load prevents sudden shifts that can destabilize the machine.

5️⃣ Invest in Operator Training

Proper operator training is critical for safe lifting operations.

• Fully understand machine controls
• Follow all safety procedures
• Operate on firm, stable ground
• Avoid unauthorized modifications
• Perform regular maintenance and inspections

Routine maintenance ensures the hydraulic system and structural components perform safely under load.

Lift Smarter. Work Safer.

Following these best practices will:

✔ Reduce risk of tipping
✔ Prevent hydraulic strain
✔ Improve machine longevity
✔ Minimize jobsite delays
✔ Protect both operator and equipment

Wild-Cat compact excavators are built for performance — but safe lifting starts with proper operation.