Cat Work Tools 48 Inch Skid Steer Trencher

Mid
Standard Flow
Runs on standard auxiliary flowBorderline for small-frame machines: verify ROCFits most mid-frame skid steers and CTLs
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Overview

Cat Work Tools' 48-inch chain trencher is designed for deeper utility and drainage trenches on Cat skid steers and CTLs. The 48-inch depth allows installation of larger diameter utilities and drainage tile. Used by Canadian utility contractors, municipalities, and site developers. Available through Cat dealers nationally.

Canada Availability

Available through Cat Work Tools dealers across Canada.

Key Facts

  • Brand: Cat Work Tools
  • Trench depth: 48 inches
  • Type: chain trencher
  • Drive: hydraulic chain drive
  • Mount: Cat quick attach (BOCE)
  • Application: deeper utility lines, drainage installation
  • Weight: 550–1600 lbs
  • Hydraulic flow: 15–30 GPM
Specs sourced from cat.com · Last verified: March 2026

Is This Right For You?

Buy if

  • You trench through soft to moderate soil for utilities, drainage, or irrigation lines at 36–60 inch depth
  • Your soil is clay, loam, sandy loam, or river bottom — chain trenchers cut fast in these conditions

Skip if

  • Your soil is solid rock, dense caliche, or Shield granite — chain links and sprockets wear out fast in rock
  • You trench in deeply frozen Prairie ground regularly — rock chain at 3–5× wear rate makes winter trenching expensive

Also consider

  • Rock wheel trencher if your ground is consistently rocky or hardpan
  • Standard auger if you're drilling individual holes rather than continuous trench lines
Machine Compatibility

Compatible with all skid steer brands and compact track loaders via universal SSQA quick attach. Mid-frame machines (S450–S650 class) are the most common fit.

About Cat in Canada

Caterpillar attachments are backed by the largest dealer network in Canada, with service centres in every major city. OEM quality with the assurance of nationwide parts and support.

Care & Maintenance

  • Inspect chain teeth after every use — worn teeth slow penetration dramatically and increase drive motor load; a full day's work can dull a chain in abrasive soil
  • Lubricate the drive chain and boom sprockets before each use and again after every 4 hours of continuous trenching
  • Check the boom bar for cracking or deformation after work in rocky or abrasive conditions — boom cracks propagate quickly under the bending loads of trenching
  • Clean soil from the drive motor cooling fins and chain case after summer use — compacted soil on the motor causes overheating on long cuts
  • Store the chain with teeth protected from ground contact — resting a chain on carbide tips on concrete chips the teeth before you've even used it

How to Connect

  1. Attach trencher boom using Bob-Tach
  2. Connect high-flow hydraulic couplers
  3. Test chain tension and direction before cutting
  4. Call 811 and verify all utilities located before first cut
Safety NoteCanada-wide: call 811 before you dig. Hydraulic trenchers may need 20-35 GPM depending on rock hardness.

Ready to Buy in Canada?

Pricing varies by region and dealer stock levels change seasonally. For current availability and a real quote, contact a local dealer.

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✓ Last checked: March 2026

Ready to Buy? Check These First

Flow
Confirm Machine Fit

Verify your machine hydraulic flow meets this attachment's requirements before ordering.

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CA
Find a Canadian Dealer

Buy through a Canadian dealer for warranty support, parts, and service.

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Guide
Buying Guide

Not sure which model is right for your job? Read the full buying guide for this attachment type.

Read the trencher buying guide →