Recommendations for a Reliable Used Mini Excavator

[Mr.Woodpirate]

Hi all,

I’m in the market for a used mini excavator and could use some advice. Looking for something in the 6,000-8,000 lb range for property maintenance, trenching, and small-scale land clearing. Ideally, I’d like to stay under $40K, but I’m open to stretching the budget for the right machine.

I’m leaning towards Kubota, CAT, or Bobcat, but I’ve also seen some decent-looking machines from Yanmar and Takeuchi. My main priorities are ease of maintenance, reliability, and availability of parts.

Would it be better to go for an older, lower-hour machine with minimal electronics or a newer one with more features but potential repair headaches?

Also, are there any specific models or years to avoid due to known issues? I’d love to hear about any red flags or success stories before making a purchase.

Appreciate any insights. Thanks in advance.

 

[Jobert_Scott]

Hey @Mr.Woodpirate,

Sounds like you’re on the right track! Kubota, CAT, and Takeuchi are all solid choices—reliable and easy to maintain. If you’re prioritizing long-term durability and fewer electronics, an older, well-maintained machine with service records might save you headaches down the road. That said, newer models often have better fuel efficiency and comfort.

For your budget, you might find a good low-hour Kubota KX040 or Takeuchi TB240. Bobcats are decent, but some older models have hydraulic issues, so check for leaks and worn pins. Also, avoid anything with a spotty service history.

Have you checked auction sites or local dealers? Sometimes, rental companies offload well-maintained units.

Good luck with the search!

 

[Samuel Flores]

You’re looking in the right range! Kubota and Takeuchi are both rock-solid, especially if you want something easy to maintain. If you’re planning to keep it long-term, an older machine with fewer electronics might save you some headaches, but newer models do have smoother controls and better efficiency. Have you checked dealer trade-ins? Sometimes you can find a well-maintained rental unit for a fair price.