by Nick Drew | Mon 06 Jun 2022
Restored Bucyrus-Erie Stands Guard
As I understand it, this machine had been on the company’s fleet ever since it was originally purchased. The rather space age looking BE 500-H was the largest in an advanced range of hydraulic excavators that had originally been launched in 1975.
The BE 500-H was added to the range in 1979, had an operating weight of 112 tonnes and was fitted with a standard 5 cubic-yard bucket.
Photo: Courtesy of the DHS Forum.
Bucyrus-Erie was obviously more well known for its rope-controlled excavators, but following pressure from European manufacturers who were quick to embrace hydraulics, the company made its first move into the sector by purchasing Milwaukee Hydraulics in 1948.
The company unveiled its new H-Series models, starting firstly with the ¾-yard 20-H in 1965, a range that would eventually be topped out by the 60-tonne class 40-H model, until the top of the range 500-H was added in 1979.
It was a relatively short period in the manufacturers long standing history, as in 1985 Bucyrus-Erie sold its entire construction machinery business, to focus on its larger surface mining sector.
Kokosing’s stunning restoration of its BE 500-H now stands on a grass mound outside its premises in Fredericktown in clear view of passing motorists on the freeway. This timelapse video documents its restoration and placement on its new long-term home.