What Are Bucket Trucks & How do They Work?

Bucket trucks may not be familiar to everyone but almost everyone has seen them. They are most easily spotted on the side of the road or near a light pole being used by electric linemen and tree trimmers. At their core, bucket trucks are simply a utility truck with an extendable pole and a bucket (large enough to hold a person) attached at the end.

The Bucket Truck's Boom

The bucket and pole (called the boom) can be controlled in two places, in the bucket and on a panel on the truck. Bucket trucks typically have insulated booms as a measure to avoid electrocution. An energized bucket truck is extremely dangerous and every precaution possible is taken to avoid it. The booms on a truck are usually hydraulic and are powered with help from the motor. With today's technology, hybrid bucket trucks have made it possible to run the boom without running the engine. This allows for a much quieter job site and increases safety.

Customizations and the Different Types of Bucket Trucks

Bucket trucks come in all shapes and sizes with different customizations for specific tasks. You can find a bucket truck with a working height of 20 feet to a working height of 100+ feet. Forestry trucks are typically equipped with a cover to keep limbs from falling on the cab called a cab guard. Another example of a customization on a bucket truck is a winch. Some trucks work in the mud and on hills where a winch is helpful in case the truck gets stuck.

Sam is a professional blogger and author. He writes for I-80 Equipment in Colona, IL. He specializes in helping utility truck buyers find the perfect unit for their business.