Utility contractors across Missouri face a range of jobsite conditions—from tight alleyways in St. Louis to open rural trenching in southeastern counties.
Choosing the right mini excavator is crucial for efficiently handling utility installations, particularly in situations where space is limited, underground obstructions are present, or project timelines are tight. CASE Construction offers a strong lineup of compact excavators in its CX series, each featuring unique design elements tailored to meet various job demands.
In this post, we’ll compare popular CASE CX mini excavator models and highlight how to match them to the specific needs of underground and utility work.
Understanding the Needs of Utility Work
Utility and underground contractors typically perform tasks such as water line installation, stormwater and sewer repair, telecom trenching, and gas line installation. These jobs often involve narrow rights-of-way, existing buried infrastructure, and precision digging near sidewalks, roadways, and buildings.
Key equipment considerations include:
- Zero or minimal tail swing for tight spaces
- Reliable hydraulic performance for consistent digging
- Cab visibility and operator comfort for safety and long shifts
- Transportability for moving between municipal or rural job sites
Popular CASE CX Models for Utility Contractors
CASE CX37C
- Operating Weight: ~8,200 lbs
- Max Dig Depth: ~10 ft 3 in
- Tail Swing: Zero tail swing
Why Choose It: The CX37C is ideal for working in tight urban or residential areas. Its zero tail swing allows operators to work close to obstacles, and its lighter weight makes it easy to transport with a standard trailer. Perfect for light utility tasks, such as cable and water service line installations.
CASE CX57C
- Operating Weight: ~12,050 lbs
- Max Dig Depth: ~12 ft 6 in
- Tail Swing: Conventional (reduced overhang)
Why Choose It: The CX57C offers increased digging depth and lift capacity while maintaining a compact design. It’s a strong choice for midsize utility work, such as stormwater drainage or gas line trenching in tighter subdivisions or business corridors.
CASE CX80C
- Operating Weight: ~18,800 lbs
- Max Dig Depth: ~14 ft 7 in
- Tail Swing: Minimal (short tail swing)
Why Choose It: For larger utility trenching or infrastructure rehabilitation, the CX80C brings more horsepower and hydraulic muscle. Its short tail swing provides better balance between power and compactness, instrumental in city utility corridors with moderate space constraints.
Matching Models to Job Types
| Job Type | Best CASE CX Model | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Water service install (urban) | CX37C | Lightweight, zero tail swing |
| Telecom or fiber trenching | CX57C | Strong lift and depth, still compact |
| Sewer main repair | CX80C | High digging force, stable platform |
| Tight alley or backyard access | CX37C | Easy transport, minimal clearance |
| Subdivision utility upgrades | CX57C | Versatile and maneuverable |
Additional Benefits for Missouri Contractors
All CASE CX mini excavators feature:
- Advanced hydraulic systems for smooth, responsive operation
- Spacious cabs with ergonomic controls and wide visibility
- Standard auxiliary hydraulics for attachments like compactors and thumbs
- Telematics-ready platforms to monitor performance remotely
These benefits support contractors working on a range of projects, from seasonal utility upgrades in Columbia to long-term municipal work in Springfield.
Support from Luby Equipment
At Luby Equipment, we understand the unique requirements of utility contractors working in Missouri’s varied conditions. Our team offers:
- In-stock availability of CASE CX models ready for work
- Responsive parts and service support from six Missouri locations
- Expert sales staff who can help you assess trench depth, tail swing, and attachment needs
Whether you’re a small crew working local contracts or a larger operation managing municipal infrastructure, we can help you find the proper CASE CX machine to match your workflow and jobsite conditions.
Choosing with Confidence
Selecting the right mini excavator for utility work involves more than just horsepower or dig depth—it’s about matching the machine’s features to your environment and workload. CASE CX models, such as the CX37C, CX57C, and CX80C, offer a blend of compact size, performance, and durability that is well-suited for underground work in Missouri.
Contact Us Today
To schedule a demo or request more information about CASE compact excavators, don’t hesitate to get in touch with your local Luby Equipment branch today.