Thumbs
D&E excavator thumbs are constructed of high tempered steel to withstand the full force of the bucket. Like the thumb on your hand, this thumb allows the bucket to grasp objects with better precision and control making it an excellent tool for loading brush, logs, pipe, or other unwieldy materials in a safer and more efficient process.
Thumbs are easy to install, and fold out of the way and locked in place against the stick when not in use.
Our thumbs are available in several sizes with variable specifications available to fit your backhoe, skid-steer, mini-excavator, or excavator.


Features
- Constructed with High-Strength T-1 plate steel
- Serrated teeth for a positive grip
- Reinforced bracing for added strength
- Double welded for reinforcement
- Designed to fit between bucket teeth
- Folds out of the way for digging
- Ships fully assembled for easy installation
- Manufactured to any width or length needed
- Hydraulics can be added for any size
- Customized thumbs built to your specifications
- Models for Rubber-Tired Backhoes, Skid-Steers, Mini-Excavators and Excavators up to 65,000 lbs or more
Thumb Models
Choose a tab below to learn more about D&E Thumb styles
Manual Thumbs
Manual thumbs do not have a hydraulic component but are more cost-effective while providing good precision and gripping for your logging, site prep, and various other material handing needs. With no hydraulics these thumbs are easier to install, maintain and repair with excellent performance and dependability at a lower initial cost.
Hydraulic Thumbs
Hydraulic Stick Mounted Thumb utilizes hydraulic cylinders to securely grasp materials and prevent slippage during lifting or relocation. Hydraulic power enables precise control, providing operators with fine-tuned adjustments for grip width, angle, and positioning.
Main-Pin Thumbs
Main-Pin thumb increase your excavator’s material handling capacity with hydraulic movement up and down, resulting in better control, maneuverability, in addition to a larger range of thumb rotation. The pivot pin mounts the attachment through the excavator’s stick and bucket, or a coupler, for faster, easier installation. Main-Pin thumbs are securely mounted on the excavator’s arm utilizing heavy-duty hydraulic cylinders and heat-treated pins, resulting in maximum performance and dependability.
Custom Thumbs
Got a job with specific requirements and need a specialized thumb to fit your needs?
D&E can manufacture a thumb to fit your specifications as needed for machine type or specific job or bucket/coupler requirements.
Get in touch with a D&E representative today and get a quote for building any of your customized thumbs.
Thumbs Gallery
