When driving forward, how high should the excavator bucket be kept above the ground?

Keeping the excavator bucket high enough to provide ground clearance is essential for safe operation while driving forward. This practice minimizes the risk of the bucket making contact with the ground or any obstacles, which can lead to equipment damage, operational accidents, or injuries. A bucket that is too low can catch on uneven surfaces or debris, potentially destabilizing the machine.

Maintaining a safe height also enhances visibility for the operator, allowing for better awareness of the surroundings and preventing collisions with obstacles in the work area. It’s important to find the right balance; while the bucket should be elevated for safety, it must not be excessively high, which could obscure the operator's line of sight.

While keeping the bucket at seat height might assist visibility to some extent, it may not be sufficient for ground clearance depending on the terrain. Raising the bucket as high as possible could create other safety concerns, such as tipping or loss of control. Lastly, specifying a set distance like one meter above the ground doesn't account for varying ground conditions and situations where practical adjustments are necessary. Thus, ensuring adequate ground clearance is the most flexible, safe, and practical approach.