Looking for recommendations for tools to speed up digging in the backyard for a patio

[funkylist]

I'm planning to start my patio in a couple of weeks, but I'm dreading the digging part. Unfortunately I can't get a bobcat in my backyard due to the narrow fence/gate (3.75ft wide) .

Beside the old fashion way of digging with a shovel, are there any other power tools I can rent that can help speed up digging? cost?

[CSK'sMom]

A rototiller works great. We used my FIL's to "dig" a almost 4 feet deep sunken patio in the berm in our backyard. We had it dug out in an afternoon. By contrast when our neighbor did his it took him 2 weeks.

[bubs]

Try a mini track loader (walk-behind/ride-on type). You should be able to rent one from your local equipment rental place (I have seen them at Rona too). They will fit through the gate.

http://www.bobcat.com/loaders/product_lines/mini_track_loader/mt52

[Stock R]

I used a tiller to dig up/loosen the earth when I did my backyard. Afterwards we shoveled the dirt into a wheelbarrow to move to the front yard. Only downside was that we were only able to get about 6-8" deep with the tiller because the backyard seemed to be mostly clay and the tiller couldn't work with that.

One note of warning, it's AMAZING how much earth you'll be digging up over the entire area, even if it were just 2" deep. Make sure you have somewhere to put it or a way to get rid of it.

[leonkaz]

small bobcat will go through your gate

[tataynik]

Try a mini track loader (walk-behind/ride-on type). You should be able to rent one from your local equipment rental place (I have seen them at Rona too). They will fit through the gate.

http://www.bobcat.com/loaders/product_lines/mini_track_loader/mt52

A neighbor used one very similar to this. He said he rented it from Volvo Rents out in Oakville.

[Drthorne]

hire some university students, most of them are tools :cheesygri

[mart242]

This is what you need:

http://img79.imageshack.us/img79/8670/cimg4046eh2.jpg

Less than 42" wide..

[Cough]

This is what you need

http://streetknowledge.files.wordpress.com/2008/05/dui-chain-gang.jpg