HLA 48-Inch Skid Steer Trencher

Mid
High Flow
High-flow machine requiredCompatible with high-flow CTLBorderline for small-frame machines: verify ROCFits most mid-frame skid steers and CTLs
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HLA 48-Inch Skid Steer Trencher

Overview

HLA Attachments' 48-inch chain trencher for skid steers handles irrigation lines, conduit trenching, and drainage installations requiring more depth than a 36-inch unit. Manufactured in Ontario, Canada, and available through HLA's Western Canada dealer network including GLC Equipment. The 48-inch depth capacity suits most utility and agricultural trenching work. A Canadian-built option with local dealer support.

Canada Availability

HLA Attachments are manufactured in Ontario, Canada. Available through GLC Equipment and HLA's dealer network across Western Canada.

Key Facts

  • Trench depth: 48 inches
  • Type: chain trencher
  • Drive: high-flow hydraulic
  • Application: irrigation, conduit, drainage trenching
  • Canadian-manufactured
  • SSQA skid steer quick attach
  • Weight: 550–1600 lbs
  • Hydraulic flow: 15–30 GPM
Specs sourced from hlaattachments.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 HLA in Canada

HLA Attachments is an Ontario-based manufacturer that designs and builds attachments in Waterloo, ON, with a dealer network spanning all provinces. Backed by a Canadian warranty and local parts availability, HLA is one of the most trusted names on Canadian job sites.

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 →