Video: Machine Heads Digs into Tiltrotators with Engcon’s Nick Bacon

If you’ve ever repositioned your compact excavator 12 times to dig one trench, you might be overdue for a tiltrotator. In the latest Machine Heads video, host Wayne Grayson sits down with Engcon’s Nick Bacon to explore why this attachment coupler is becoming the ultimate upgrade for mini diggers. Tiltrotators let operators rotate a tool 360 degrees and tilt it up to 45 degrees. Think of it as giving your excavator a wrist — one that can precisely shape trenches, grade slopes or pick up manhole covers without hopping in and out of the cab.

Engcon’s Compact-Class Lineup

Engcon offers five tiltrotator models for compact excavators, ranging from 1.5 to 9 metric tons:

• EC02 / EC02 Basic – For 1.5- to 3-ton machines
• EC204 / EC204 Basic – For 2- to 4-ton machines
• EC206 – For 4- to 6-ton machines
• EC209 – For 6- to 9-ton machines

Basic models are stripped-down versions without integrated control systems, ideal for plug-and-play simplicity. Higher-end versions come with multiple control options, gripper capabilities and compatibility with Engcon’s EC-Oil automatic quick-coupler system.

What Is EC-Oil and Why Should You Care?

EC-Oil is Engcon’s automatic hydraulic quick coupler system. It allows tool changes — both above and below the tiltrotator — in under 10 seconds without leaving the cab. It eliminates hoses, reduces wear and helps transform your mini excavator into a tool-carrying juggernaut. Bacon explains how operators are replacing both manual labor and backup machines like skid steers. With a tiltrotator-equipped compact excavator and a fork or grapple attachment, a single operator can load pallets, fine-grade slopes or shape tight corners solo. Some Engcon customers, Bacon notes, have eliminated a second excavator from jobsite lineups entirely. In real-world terms, that’s cutting job times by 30 to 40 percent.

Is There a Learning Curve? Sure. But It’s Not Steep.

Most operators get the hang of tiltrotators in about two weeks. After a month, many wonder how they ever worked without one.

Tips for Buying a Tiltrotator

• Match your machine. Don’t oversize or underspec.
• Hydraulic readiness is key. Know your flow rates.
• Invest in operator training. Precision takes practice.
• Consider EC-Oil. It’s not fluff — it’s a serious productivity booster.
• Budget smartly. Expect to spend 30 to 50 percent of your excavator’s value.

The Verdict: Not Just Euro Bling Anymore

Scandinavian countries may have led the tiltrotator charge, but North America is catching up fast. Contractors looking to boost ROI, reduce labor costs and unlock serious jobsite versatility are taking notice. This isn’t just another attachment — it’s a new way to run your compact excavator. Watch the full interview with Nick Bacon above or on the Compact Equipment YouTube channel. And if your mini ex still digs the old-fashioned way? It might be time to give it a wrist.

Keith Gribbins is publisher of Compact Equipment.