Buying a mini ex

[coopers]

I've heard nothing but great reports from people that own and/or operate Taks. I personally am a Kubota dude when it comes to minis. I have had ZERO problems w/ their product and I am always very impressed with their power and the great response from the controls. Years ago, I worked for a rental company and all of our minis (KX41, KX 121-3, KX 161-3) were Kubota. Those machines were run so hard at times by customers but they held up very well. We would occasionally get a moron that broke a thumb but it was fixed very quick. Our Kubota dealers in WA state excel at parts services. No problems here. They're also easy to service.

So I'd have to say go with Kubota if your dealer is as good as ours are. I will be picking up a Kubota probably late next year.

The one issue with Kubota is the track power. A little less than others. But I can live with that.

Deere minis are good too but I didn't like how touchy the controls were...but that's probably because I am used to Kubota. Also, compared to the larger excavators (120's and up) the Deere mini excavator controls are very responsive.

I've posted a few pics of some work involving Kubota. I will get a cab but since I rent for now it's what I can get.

 

[AKfish]

Deere minis are good too but I didn't like how touchy the controls were...but that's probably because I am used to Kubota. Also, compared to the larger excavators (120's and up) the Deere mini excavator controls are very responsive.

I don't have a great deal of seat-time on excavators.. shade over 100hrs. But I know what I liked about each of them.

Coopers is spot on about the bigger Deere's. The control response was kinda like movin' your hand thru water... so, the "feel" was not as good as the Komatsu. Never used the smaller Deere's; so, don't know if the controls are more proportional to the actual use.

I really liked the Bobcats that I used --- the 331 and the 430. Can't say much about their operational longevity but the power, track speed, comfort, visibility was all very good - IMO.

My neighbor is trying to get me interested in a Tak. (He's a ER doc with more money than good sense... sometimes.) The local Kubota dealer rents/sells 'em.

I rented a little (I mean.. it was my "first one") Kubota 41 or 45 (not quite sure) and it was very surprising. Very capable for it's dimensions. But, I wasn't trying to get from one end of the job site to another or racing quarter horses, either..

That said; if I were to plunk down my own checkbook for an excavator - and the dealer support/repair and part's availability were more or less even between models - I'd probably go Komatsu.

Best of luck.

AKfish

 

[Blackhammer]

builder
First off everyone loves the international. I have told you that several times. Second off service in your area is what is most important seeing you have a case backhoe I assume there is a dealer near you that is what I would recomend. Here in Tampa Florida the dealer I deal with most deals in kobelko. I am very happy with my e30. I would have liked to get a 50 or 80 but you know I have to be able to transport all the equipment on the same trailer. I can now do that. Glad to see you are doing very well and good luck on your purchase.