Which Mini-excavator?

dutchlegacy

Hey guys,

I need some advice here. We have decided that we would could use a mini-excavator as an addition to our tool-box, and now I need to decide what to get. We will be mainly digging footers with it, and we're probably looking for something in the 8000-11000 pound range. I don't want to spend more than 25K, so a new one is pretty much out. any thoughts?

guyute65045

I have to say that it really depends on whats available used in your area and which company you want to do business with to service your machine. I love my Kubota mini, I find it reliable and it is very easy to use. I can tow it with a 1 ton truck and it has a good bit of power for a smaller machine.
When I was looking for a mini I really looked for a longtime to find that one, I think for the biggest reason that I like the Kubota dealer better than anybody else in the area. I have always had great success in my dealings with them.
Ymmv

ConstSvcs

Ditto on loving my Kubota. I own a 2004 KX91-3 but iff you look into Kubota a KX121-3 seems to match your weight specs.

dutchlegacy

this is very helpful! I'm a nit-wit when it comes to this type of equipment. I will start with the Kubota recommendation, and expand my search from there.

woodchuck2

I too would go with Kubota, the Bobcats i have seen used tend to have alot of leaks even with few hours on them. Yanmar is a good machine too.

Alan Mesmer

I would go with a Kubota also but Im a little partial since I currently have two of them right now. I have an Ultra mini K008 and a KX121-3. Quality of the Kubota is second to none. You may be able to find a used KX121-3 with some life left in it for around 25k. As always I would recommend renting a unit to see your likes and dislikes before you buy.
Good Luck
Alan

tgeb

Well to add another point of view, I have owned a couple of the Bobcat brand excavators and have found them to be reliable and have served me well.

Neither of my excavators developed leaks of any kind.

The one excavator 435G we have had some problems with, and the dealer has been wonderful in working with me on resolving the issues.

None of the other dealers I have worked with in the past have ever gone to the lengths that my Bobcat dealer has in making sure we are satisfied with the service and equipment we are getting from them.

I know my Kubota dealer as well, and they would likely come through if I had issues with one of their machines.

I think one of the best things you can do is get to know your local equipment dealers, not just the sales guys, but the owners, the parts guys, service managers etc.

Dealer support can be critical, you don't want to be chasing your tail when you need an important part or guidance on a problem with your machine. Research who you think will serve you best.

There are plenty to choose from, and most all are good machines, good access to the parts and service you need can make a big difference.

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Tom

www.gebcon.com

Blackhammer

I prefer the Kobelco brand. They also make the New Hollands. I just got a newholland that weighs 8100 lbs and can run a 24" bucket with no strain. I like their machines. I have no experience with the kubotas. I have rented several bobcats 325, 331 and had no problems. I think the most important thing about getting a used machine is service... It is a machine and things break. Having a knowledgable service staff is you best bet.

mkwish

Hi there,
I'm from Australia and am a mini contractor with a mini machine. Mine is a 2 1/2 tonne Takeuchi steel tracked machine and it is very rugged. It gives almost no trouble, runs all day on less than 20 liters of diesel. It is now about 8 or 9 years old, I have had it for 3 1/2 years (the hour meter stopped working at 2600 hours before I bought it. I bought it second hand directly from a contractor without workshop servicing and it had a very tough life with the previous owners. Of course you have to consider your local backup but I think they are represented in most areas. Takeuchi claim they developed the compact excavator in the first place.

k9cop

Hiachi or John Deere basically the same, are great machines. I live in Southwestern Virginia and it seems like the Hitachi are usally the most affordable machines. IF you go with one of these make 100% sure that it is not a grey market machine. If it is parts are a nightmare and all books will be in Japenese. Just call your local John Deere dealer or HItachi dealer and run the serial number if you go with a Hitachi. I like that the HItachi's usally run Isuzu Diesels. These engines are very reliable motors. I have run almost all of the brands listed above and they all are good machines. Try to find one that looks like it has been maintained. Look for tight greased pins and bushings. Check fluids and I like to ask the owner what kind of oil and hydraulic fluids are in the machine. I maintain all of my equipment and know what fluids are in them and when they were changed. These machines properly cared for will last a long time. Good luck.

8ft2by4

The excavators we use bought a Takeuchi about a year ago and they claim it digs harder than anything else they have used....of comparable size that is.. I am not sure what size it is but does have steel tracks and not rubber.

pottsgroverc

We have had CAT, Takeuchi, Bobcat, Yanmar, John Deere, Komatsu. Basically what we have found is that all mini x's are overpowered. So that is not a issue. Fuel consumption is so small anyway. That any difference is basically negligible anyway. We basically look for two things price and parts support. Big name brands will most likely be more. i.e. CAT, Bobcat, Komatsu. Something else you might want to know. John Deere makes Hitachi Minis, Takeuchi makes Mustang Minis. Kobelco makes Case. Hope this helps.

Blas

Dooson sv 55 demo it you won't be disappointed. Ours is great comfortable quiet and powerful. Ours has a thumb and moonlights as a demo machine sometimes. I would suggest demo a few and then find a gently used one.

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