Affordable Chinese Mini Excavator review

[@DougsMessyGarage]

Hey Mike. As for the rather basic design of the thumb mount on your Rippa machine, I suspect the manufacturer originally intended for it to have a manual/fixed thumb so rotational wear would not have been a big deal. I agree that the pivot will likely be an area of concern for you with regular use of the movable hydraulic thumb. An upgrade will make good content though. Thanks for the review.

[@Mikefestiva]

I think you are right about the manual thumb, there would be far less movement. I didn’t even think of that being a possibility for the design. Thanks for checking out my video Doug. Ps anyone reading this, go check out Doug’s channel, he has a much bigger Rippa excavator he bought at auction. Go check out his experience with his machine 👍

[@DougsMessyGarage]

@@Mikefestiva Big thanks for the shoutout Mike. I am editing a video of my clumsy climb of the learning curve right now.

[@The-truth-is-valuable.]

This is the kind of honest review you need when looking into some tools, equipment etc. No fake bullsh*t, no fake reviews. An honest review after some honest labour / jobs done. I hope these guys realise the worth of it.

[@funone8716]

27:19 Bigfoot sighting center of screen! Super cool review video, these machines have a ton of value for the money.

[@faspit95]

I don't like my thumb non greased pivot either. Took my pivot bolt out, drilled a hole 3/4 of the way thru the bolt from the head. Then cross drill for the grease to make access to the existing tubing. I countersink for the grease fitting keeping it out of the dirt. I also ground a 1/4 way around the pin from the cross holes to help spread the grease without losing any of the pin strength.

[@noyopacific]

Thanks for the video Mike ! Excellent and thorough review !

[@esperpl8745]

Hi Mike, I think you should buy the new version with the Kubota engine. I'm sure you'll have no problem fixing and maintaining this diesel. It's a piece of cake for you, and besides, we could have some cool videos with the new excavator. Like cmon, you can build your own 6x6 ATV, but you're afraid of a simple diesel engine. Greetings from Poland, I'm very jealous of your plot of land, and American freedom. I dream of a house in the woods like yours and no neighbors nearby.

[@thomaspryor8202]

You have hit the sweet spot with this brand and model. Your usage and operator demand is meeting your needs. I'd say no to the diesel and yes to the one that widens.

[@BigMikesHobbyChannel]

I got the ripper and 32" tilt bucket from kazana as well and I will say I am glad I didnt go any bigger on the bucket. I think 32" tilt is about the biggest you should go on these just based on weight alone. You will learn real quick that you have to be even more gentle with the controls with all that weight out there. After I put mine on I decided to put on a considerable amount of counterweight as these machines are ~600lbs front heavy anyway and even more so with that large articulated bucket. Most add 200ish lbs but with the thick bracket and weights I added its about 340lbs of weight off the rear of the house.

[@sproutandmerc1941]

I just got a mini excavator and I cant wait for it to get here. Thanks for all the great and family friendly content!

[@Mikefestiva]

Right on! I think you will really enjoy it, they can move fairly smooth with the hydraulic movements once you get some hours on the seat. 😊 what make and model did you decide on?

[@acuraintegrar5]

Great vid Mike! I would skip the diesel just because the gas is way easier and cheaper to get parts and being such a small unit, the gas engine will do fine with that size of machine IMO. I watched this vid a while back on my tv but could not comment until now lol. Either way you go good luck!

[@Mikefestiva]

I definitely agree with you about the simplicity of the gas engine in a mini of this size. If it ever goes bad, HF sells a 420cc that will bolt right up for $350, can’t beat that 😊 Thanks for checking out my mini Excavator video!

[@kyleshilman8541]

Hey Mike. I’ve been eyeing the Rippa based on your reviews. The diesel models are intriguing but I’m unsure it’s necessary for my needs. I’m not looking to move mountains just want to make some jobs easier around my property. Thanks for all the great content!

[@waynecoley4876]

I appreciate your full honest reviews. I hate that when I see them, they make me want to buy the same piece of equipment! I am on the fence about buying one of these. I am 60 now and don’t need to be lifting the things that I do lift but the cost is hard to justify with the limited time that I have to use it. However, boy do I want one of these! I am interested to see your root rake attachment to see if it’s really what I think it is.

[@Swamp-Fox]

That is a lot of machine for the money as long as you understand its limitations. Definitely beats hernia or back surgery! Great review!

[@causewaykayak]

That's a really handy looking tool for anyone on a small holding. Great to hear so many positive remarks - yes definitely cheaper than a new set of spinal discs.

[@ChrisWilliams-pu8pj]

I like you simplicity idea. If you are getting good fuel economy and it is doing the job why go with the Diesel? Looking forward to seeing your root ripper. Great video Mike. Thank you again!

[@Jeffroh]

Expanding tracks would be nice but i like the simplicity of that thing

[@deepbludude4697]

Hey Mike always good to hear your input! I need this machine im doing a ton of digging here in the Ozarks its mostly rock/clay, pick and shovel, its killin my 63 YO back and hips. Id like to see you sell that unit and go to expanding track then fab up a bar and pin system, IDK about the diesel there's a whole lot of benefit to throwing in an HF motor. Thank for the excellent review.

[@seansullivan3795]

Man, you're really making me want to get one of these. I've been looking at the larger18-20 diesel models. Price seems pretty good in comparison to used Kubotas and other machines. I just bought a pretty expensive smaller Kubota tractor for our recently purchased Oregon property and am loving that thin, but I dont want to shell out the dough for a higher end unit. Thanks for making these videos. I've been watching your channel for a very long time.

[@stevenrogers2457]

Hi Mike, I know what you're saying about making things a little easier for yourself. I'm 58 and that's why I'm looking to get one of these for around my home. I'm finding the recovery time on my body is getting longer and longer after lifting and moving heavy things around my property, never mind digging. I hope you stick with the gas powered units as that's what i think most of us home owners will be purchasing, after all these aren't really meant for commercial use. As always thanks for the informative video

[@Jeffroh]

I agree...save your body. Im 52 and hit a wall around 46 where i just cannot do crazy stuff no more.

[@ericjohnson9080]

I love my shty little digger. I think the expanable track model actualy only narrows tracks for getting thru gates. My fixed track width is 39".

[@DavidHard-o7p]

Love all your reviews on the mini Mike. Appreciate your efforts!

[@Mikefestiva]

Glad you like them! Thanks 😊👍

[@helendennis7662]

Thank you Mike ❤ These videos could not be better timed. We’ve been back and forward about buying a digger for two years, had one at our last home but getting help with maintenance was always a problem. We aren’t very mechanical (I really want to learn, love all the mods you make and suggest) but we live in a farming area and there are people who repair tractors in our village, and in the next town, so I imagine they can do most things on such a simple machine 🤞We would get the diesel, so of course would love to see you pick one up and review it so throughly. We are going to see a Rippa today and now we know exactly what to look for and what questions to ask. I think getting extra attachments might be tricky or more expensive, we’re in SE Europe, and things just aren’t as easily available if they aren’t already here. But the seller of the machine is an importer so we will be asking what they can get and how long it takes. Also it is regularly hitting 35-40°C (90s F) for these summer months, and our tractor doesn’t like it, so I guess this won’t either. But we can just work mornings and evenings 🤷🏻‍♀️Ultimately I worked out as you did, this machine could pay us back in about 80 days based on local self hire costs, that doesn’t even include drop off and delivery charges, so once we’ve done the work we need over the winter it will have paid for itself - anything extra is a bonus. Plus it’s small enough we can put it in my van 😂and take it to help friends and neighbours. Thanks again Mike, your videos are priceless 🙌

[@TheHomePros6221]

Nice to see a vid from ya mike!

[@Mikefestiva]

Thanks man! I really appreciate it 😊 I’m definitely looking forward to see your next video on the old mini Excavator project you have been working on 😊👍

[@Ants_Pants]

lol @ Thumbnail 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 thanks for another video Mike

[@Mikefestiva]

Thanks Ants 😊 haha I’m glad you liked the thumbnail 🤣

[@stevedue4485]

Hey Andris you like Mike as well! Both you guys are great

[@michaelnielsen7965]

Thanks for taking the time to provide some really useful information. I look forward to seeing how it handles the various attachments. As for your Diesel/ Gas decision, I have never been able to justify the increased purchase and running costs on a Diesel unless working it full time commercially. It doesn't make economic sense for a property owner in my opinion. But hey, it's your toy.

[@fireaxxe]

Diesel is nice because the fuel doesn't degrade as rapidly and most tractors are diesel so you don't need to store 2 fuels.

[@craigrice3887]

Mike a good review like the channel,an angle boom and adjustable track are a must and if possible on the chosen model an angle blade can be very handy for back filling a trench and grading

[@dogpotter]

very thorough review of this machine thanks for taking the time and explaining the pros and cons of this little machine Thanks

[@051biohaz]

Well damn Mike, every time you post a new video I have to buy another piece of equipment..lol. Looks like a super useful machine, and I would stick with the gas motor. Thanks for the upload, love the content..:)

[@Mikefestiva]

Haha well sorry man 🤣 Thanks for checking out my new video!

[@richcrosby]

Awesome, so glad you did the update video. I'm hopefully receiving my rippa this week. Any chance you know a part number for that hydraulic oil filter?

[@michaelshallett6665]

I gotta say Mike that the simplicity of the Briggs motor is a seller for me... it's convenient..I'm purchasing a mini and the expandable tracks are my thoughts too...thanks for the video and info

[@MrTbone1113]

100% stay with gas, keeps future repairs down and easier to maintain.

[@Mikefestiva]

Definitely seems like the way to go for me 😊👍

[@jasongarland3165]

Mike, I'm probably never going to tell you to not buy another tool, especially if you the opportunity to get your money out of your current tool. That said, I think the expandable track and swing boom would have value for you. Just bear in mind all the extra hydro fittings and connections that adds. As to gas vs diesel: captain's choice. Personally, I prefer diesel for equipment but for light duty, the ease of repair of gas engines makes a lot of sense too.

[@Mikeykaysuper]

I like that little skid steer. I could use one to go with my new Groundhog 1 Ton excavator on my property in Northern Ca. Looks like you found another good dealer in Texas. I had good service with Ground Hog of Texas. bought it as soon as they unloaded it off the truck and it was trucked to California a few days later .

[@bobbalbirnie2478]

Nicely done on the review Michael. As for your idea of selling it and obtaining another model with a diesel engine, I am torn on that issue, I would love to see how the diesel machine performs with the additional options so I vote yes on going that route. But... I kind of also want to see how this machine performs in the longer term. Since you would be selling to a friend, my guess is we could also maybe see the longer term performance of this one through your keeping in touch with him and doing video updates on how he is doing with it? Either way though, it is whatever works best for you, we (all us viewers) win either way! Seems as well that you could sell your bucket mod pieces as a kit to reinforce the skimpy ones that are out there so maybe think about offering it via an online store? Thanks for your time bringing us along on all that you do, be well.../B

[@supertitan21]

Get the diesel I’d love a good honest review

[@54mgtf22]

What a little rippa. Cheers Mike 👍

[@Mikefestiva]

Haha 🤣 thank for checking out my new video! 😊👍

[@philleeson7835]

Stay with the petrol,it does what it says on the tin.. If you go diesel with all the add ons.swivel boom, expanding tracks etc you may as well spend the money modifying your yanmar

[@HowardGrant-oc5kf]

I'm a diesel guy or, at least, I used to be. With all the smog control crap they put on newer machines these days, you have to buy DEF and wait for the engine to go through regen modes and a bunch of other stuff. Maintenance costs can be higher and they can also be harder to start in the winter. I'd stick with the gas engine, imho. As to the thumb hinge pin: Could you take the pin to a machine shop and have them drill horizontally through it and then 2 strategically placed holes crosswise? Screw in a grease fitting and have at it.

[@wyo_garage20]

I’d like to see your take on the diesel model. You could compare and contrast between the gas and diesel and not many can probably say the same. Diesel is nice, a lot of guys likely have a diesel tractor at home, and a diesel pickup, so naturally diesel in this so everything is on same fuel.

[@soulis1000]

Realy good video, i would like to see how the diesel version is.

[@Joe-rx3nr]

Mr. Festiva, I🎉 appreciate you wanting to upgrade, but I come to your site to find how to make harbor freight and/or budget equipment classy!

[@MattLitkeRacing]

A good point about the machine tipping from being so narrow and inexperienced operators

[@desantiago5]

I say go for the diesel model. I'd like to see that review and it would be a great one to compare to this one.

[@kentjohnson3071]

I got a 2024 with enclosed cab from the same source. I ordered it on Ebay and added the rake attachment. Shipping was free and final cost was the same as what Mike paid for his. I think the cab models don't sell as well, might be why it was a good deal. Don't know. It also has the RATO engine, not the B&S. Research I did says the RATO engines are available at Harbor Freight. I'm 6'7" and was concerned if I'd fit in the cab. Pleasantly surprised, it's quite roomy. I modified the cowling to swing open. Added a fan to pull air out of the engine compartment using the existing switch installed for the track spread, which mine doesn't have. Added a simple tach/hour meter. Also, extended the walking sticks to help have a bit less Jerry control. I've found to avoid Jerry hydraulics just move slowly. Shipping took about 6 weeks. But, the company was great about keeping me informed and once the machine got to the States it was to me in 3 days. No regrets here.

[@richcrosby]

I've got a machine getting picked up from them and shipped out to me on Monday. How far from Texas are you that it took three days? Just trying to gauge my expectations!

[@kentjohnson3071]

@@richcrosby Idaho

[@kentjohnson3071]

Mine came with pedals fir thumb and blade. I like those. The one thing it doesn't have is a hydraulic fluid temp Guage. It has a round bubble type Guage. Not as useful, imo, as the type I've seen with the thermometer in them. But, oh well.

[@djs4271]

Hi Mike. Really like your videos. I think you should go with the diesel model. Assuming of course the cost is not outrageous. Love to have one of these mini ex’s around my property but my Kubota BX will have to do for now.

[@sailingwiththegods538]

I'm considering buying a Chinese mini-ex. I build decks and do small carpentry projects for a living, and I don't need a large machine, I just need something to replace my shovel. I work by myself and I'm very much over digging holes. Not to mention buying one of these machines will take the place of a worker. Worker's comp, taxes, and liability insurance isn't cheap and possibly replacing a worker will pay for this machine many times over.

[@Mikefestiva]

As long as you take care of it and do basic maintenance I think a Chinese mini would work well for your work. Yes it’s definitely like having extra help, definitely a game changer for sure. 👍

[@staudenmaierca]

I would stick with a gasser if I were you. Like you said, much easier to source parts when needed. Also, why do you need a dump trailer when you've got the mini articulating dump truck??

[@calvinculpalt]

I'd stick with gas. I'm a diesel mechanic and i love diesels but they are heavier, more expensive to fix and maintain, and more dangerous depending on injection pressure.

[@oby-1607]

Both of my machines (excavators) are running on diesel. I wouldn't have it any other way. Very smooth and powerful even down to the low rpms. Never had an issue that couldn't be dealt with easily and the small one uses a 3 cylinder Kubota diesel engine. The small one is what is called a 2 tonne Chinese model. It has the red arrow on the side of the track frame like yours. 4 post sun shade is certainly better than a 2 post. Mine has the expandable tracks for width but I have only used it in the widest setting and never had a need for it to be narrower. Just makes it feel more stable. I have removed the door off of the back which accesses the oil and other engine accessories but I did this because the fan really drove the air right to the centre of the door and it made sense to help the cooling in the 100 degree weather we have been having a lot of in the Okanogan here. The hydraulic oil fill and diesel fill is on the right side (of you sitting) and has see thru fill gauges you can easily see. Hydraulic thumb was standard and there is plumbing for accessories like a breaker or auger if you like. I got this mainly for orchard work because we would plant trees with an auger but when hitting any kind of rock, which we have plenty of, the auger would deflect causing the tree hole to be off. With the bucket on the excavator this doesn't happen. Just dig out the rock. They are an absolutely indispensable machine for almost any purpose.

[@Mikefestiva]

Great to hear your experience with your machines 😊👍

[@mwilliamshs]

20:50 yes, that pin needs bushings and grease. If the pin is hard or even almost as hard as the thumb ears, the thumb will wear out.

[@johnandersen7219]

Nice reviews on this machine. I’m currently looking into them a bit more for remodeling business-digging egress window wells etc on my timeline. What’s the digging depth of this particular model? On their site is says 4.9ft. Is that accurate? It seems like at least the telescopic track is a must for stability.

[@DirtyDiezel]

Get the diesel, you can always go back to gas or $349 like you said if it becomes to hard to get parts

[@nickdiny6238]

Definitely diesel!

[@mikedesilets3324]

Lol. I posted my comment before the video was over. Looks like you ARE going to try out a mini skid steer. I'm looking forward to your videos on it. I'm about to build a landplane for mine. I'll post a video.

[@kimcarter8585]

Mike I have a 1974 Kubota Tractor with who knows how many hours would not worry about a Diesel Engine they mostly bullet proof.

[@wingandaprayeradventures6758]

Hey Mike. I cant send a link or photo because of restrictions but Harbor Freight has a d cell battery operated transfer pump that goes into the mouth of your gas jug and transfers the gas to your machine. I have had tow to fill my Ultralight aircraft. awesome and fast. make refueling that easier. $10

[@richardkelleher1711]

Kubota parts are available world wide. Kubota is very popular in sail boats because of the parts availability.

[@TheGuruStud]

Doesn't use enough fuel to justify going diesel at all if it's harder to work on (better not have to pull engine for anything). I would check it out in person for quite a while. Also, what about adding some tractor weights to the back for more lifting capacity/stability (sorry, we've seen you're an excellent fabricator lol)? I'm sure 500 lbs would go a long way and add fairly minimal length.

[@davidhelgeson6997]

I believe mike is planning on fabricating a counter weight in the near future

[@LeonardMagnusson]

just seeing that you can stand up right with no pain should sell them many times lifting a tank lid into a truck. yea i loved my yanmar. a two hour dig was done in ten minutes.

[@SGerbs]

Interested to see what you think of the quick attach vs your bucket & thumb geometry. My fixed thumb pin is about 5” up the stick compared to the bucket pin. I have seen others with the same set as me but with a hydraulic thumb where the thumb and bucket only meet in one position.

[@mattke5etc]

When you need something past 50 horsepower diesel makes sense. but the Simplicity and the cheapness of regular gas engines simply can't be beat for something that small.

[@stephenlindsey9233]

I would go with diesel

[@GunClingingPalin]

Yes that shaking will eventually weaken and make the posts break off.. So add the rear brace. As you know anything you bend back and forth will break. That is how we intentionally break things when we need to. So deff fix it.

[@vdub1959]

Huh? I have the same model, in no way will shaking cause the posts to break off. 🤣

[@Mr.Pickles1941]

I think its a kubota so parts shouldnt be an issue, engine problems also probably shouldn't be an issue to begin with, its a diesel so its ALOT quieter and should run ALOT cooler (not that heat is an issue like you said)

[@dylondiesel4920]

Could you put some type of mower attachment on it?

[@dylondiesel4920]

A brush mower attachment even if it had its own isolated engine that could trim trees to a height and hills and ditches would be worth the buy for me. Even if you had to make it yourself that would be an awesome video.

[@dylondiesel4920]

I've been looking at these for a while now, but I keep telling myself how often would I use it, just to dig or lift a log, so would it really be worth the money, if it can do brush Mowing and limb trimming, then I would probably get a lot more use out of it.

[@Mikefestiva]

I actually just adapted a 21” 5HP line trimmer to hook up on my mini excavator bucket. So far it’s working great 👍 I will post a short video of it in a few weeks. Thanks for checking out my new video.

[@whatscoldoing5627]

Diesel is somewhat more reliable and cheaper to run. I would always buy diesel. The expandable version with swing boom would be useful particularly on a hillside.

[@seansysig]

No on the diesel due to cold weather issues.

[@mshadow64]

stay with gas, its simple, seem clunky but it works just fine for these, if your going to a big machine then diesel it is, but for these little toys, gas does fine, you could get a HF twin and fit in, it would sound better but it wont make it work any better, the 13HP runs them fine.

[@Mikefestiva]

I definitely agree with you about the simplicity of the 420cc gas engines, they are cheap and easy to find parts for and work on and the HP seems really matched well for the hydraulic system 😊👍

[@WildlifeOfUpstateNY]

Do you have a video of the oil change etc maintenance?

[@enginebae3471]

Selfishly I wanna see a diesel powered rig. That being said I think the gas engine is the way to go for ease of repair. Also the hydraulic fluid will get hotter when you run the engine full tilt. Yes you get more “power” but the fluid travels through the system faster and is being compressed so it builds up heat and when it goes through the system too fast it doesn’t have time to cool down so the heat tends to creep up. Especially if it doesn’t have a radiator style cooler with fan. Btw, heat is the #1 killer of a hydraulic system. I worked on them for years

[@waynepeterson8518]

That was my selfish thought as well, but I agree that the gas engine has the cost advantage for a light duty machine that isn't built for longevity.

[@Mikefestiva]

You are 100% right 👍 Thanks for commenting! Have a great weekend 😊

[@thebigdustin]

Well hello Mike Festiva.

[@Kent-pb2jl]

They all seem to have their nuances. Your bucket isn't built as sturdy but your thumb lays almost flat against the boom, mine needs the upper boss moved to do this. My rear house door opens on a hinge and stays open, thats nice. Seat is hinged too but uses two dumb wing nut bolts. Your blade mount is gusseted and the bar between the drive motors but a flimsy "ROPS". Mine has a digital volt gauge and hour meter. The Chinese need to put all the best features together, its not like most of them even cost any money to do. My hydro oil smelled funky, unlike oil. I used AW 46. The other motors won't have the stator output that the BS has that can run cooling fans. I've heard people say the swing booms are a little sloppy and don't stay centered. If it was to do it over again I'd go one size up. I didn't do expanded tracks because thats additional maintenance and future issues. I think if you were working in warmer temps, higher RPMs and longer travel you'd get some heat building up. Mine hit at least 180 (highest the gauge goes to) with the stock oil and cooler running an 80w fan. After changing the oil and ceramic wrapping the exhaust it cut down the temps to 120 or less so far. Have you tested your pressure yet? Sounds like a lot of people have low pressure since there is no QA from factory. Mine was at 2050, turned it up to 2400. Seems smoother on turning now. I used an M14x1.5 male off the thumb plumbing.

[@gs1100ed]

Would it make sense to put a piano hinge to tilt the seat to access underneath?

[@MrNosajwhitey]

Working smarter not harder philosophy is so necessary after 35yo

[@paul2532]

How does this compare to the AGT 12

[@LibTech]

Hell yes rippa

[@paulwatts905]

👍👍

[@chevyhernandez7873]

Hola, que aceite hidraulico usa esta excavadora

[@jessemcgurk2076]

Keep it petrol easy way

[@Mikefestiva]

Definitely seems like the way I’m leaning for sure 👍

[@LeonardMagnusson]

starting to sound like you need a small front loader. i could not justify it at the time.

[@tomasisp]

Gas, since you are not professional on excavation jobs. Gas is a simple solution. Diesel for heavy use I guess.

[@user-neo71665]

Stay away from chinese diesels. They change the design every year or so and discontinue making parts as soon as the new design is out. Spare parts dry up pretty fast. I have a buddy replace 2 gas motors on his farm with them 2 years ago so he could have everything diesel. Both the electric starters died within the first year. The starters are discontinued. Fine so he started pull starting them. It's easy enough to do on a wood chipper and a pump. Well the pump pull started broke, parts are discontinued. I looked at it and the pull starter looked like it was built for a 5hp gas engine out of cheap stamped steel and plastic parts. Dang sure wasn't designed to pull start diesel for long term. He has done swapped both back to a gas engine. Both engines were running great but he didn't want to have to get a bump box to crank them every time.

[@Kent-pb2jl]

The diesels are off the shelf Kubota K902 or K722 models, hardly an issue for parts, just MUCH more expensive than gas. A whole replacement gas engine is only a few hundred...

[@CJLeTeff]

I say go for a diesel Mike. 👍👍🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🤘🏻🤘🏻

[@skrotjorgenhellqvist6357]

Om man räknar vad maskinen kostar på 1000 timmar som borde vara livslängden på en sån maskin så blir den rätt billig att äga…

[@pandabird714]

Ja ska nog definitivt ta reda på hur länge den lever på mina fem hektar xD

[@simpsons721]

#1 rule of hernia surgery. Claim it happened on the job or get a job and work 90 days and then say it happened. You will make money from a hernia surgery

[@dirtydish6642]

I was one of the hobbyists lucky enough to get the 1 ton Rippa model w/ the foot pedals and easier access fuel tank w/ gage. I also got the cab which out to work well since I don't yet have a pole barn and live in the Midwest with plenty of snow. At 15 hours, mine has saved me blood, sweat, tears and most importantly medical insurance deductibles. Unearthing and hauling two dozen trailer footings the size of small dishwashers was easier than I thought. Too heavy to lift but I could cradle them between the bucket and blade and track them to a pile. Issues: I've added latched for ease of access on the back panel as well as an electric cooling fan (external pulling as mine also has the internal shroud that doesn't leave room for it in the engine bay). Also, I've developed a fuel leak under the fuel tank which I need to determine if the fitting seal is bad or the line connecting to the fitting needs tightened down, hopefully its just the latter. Questions: Do you know the hydraulic oil filter part number or equivalent? Is your model's engine oil drain plug not accessible? Comments: Thanks for showing how fitted the oil temp sensor as I was unsure where/how to best mount mine. Increase coolness factor by pulling all those safety decals on the body and some fun ones. I'm quite certain the skulls on mine has increased its lifting power by twofold. I'm excited to see a video on the ripper claw when that time comes as I have lots of stump work in the future and I may follow suit. In closing: The telescopic tracks would be a great upgrade. I'd say sell your model, replace with another gas model with the foot pedals, boom swing and telescopic tracks so we may vicariously enjoy those upgrades too. Keep at it, see you in the next ones. PS - I'm going to take a look at the zerkless thumb pin on my model and see if its the same as yours or if they improved on that oddly overlooked joint. Will provide an update if it is in fact accounted for in my model.

[@MichelClavette]

Great feedback but I would not go for the diesel engine...costs too much for maintenance even with the longer MTBF.

[@TreeChangeFarmer]

I have a Chinese Mini Excavator and it came with a Yanmar 3TN, 3 cylinder diesel. Love it. Can run on low revs, uses minimum fuel and has plenty of power. Those companies not using the Yanmar 3TN may use the D722 Kubota. Nay sayers believe they are a Chinese made copy but they are proper Japanese made engines. No problems with engine parts as there are a lot of options for getting Yanmar and Kubota bits. Cheers Dave

[@gregarnold7516]

Another great video. Thanks for the honest review. Seems like a good small machine. Great bucket fix also

[@Ratkill9000]

I vote get another gas model, but if possible, larger engine. Least then if you got a different pump, you have a large enough engine to not be bogged down.

[@stephenyork1344]

Not in the market for an excavator, but love watching you modify these machines to suit your purposes! Great to see honest reviews of a multitude of products (welders, dirt bikes, saw mills, etc)!

[@lycanthrope8979]

I'd suggest gas, but you have the mechanical chops to deal with diesel so that's up to you, but considering the fuel efficiency of diesel versus gas, it's going to be up to your tolerance of dealing with the complexity. Thanks for this review. I'll know where to look if I want some equipment that's mini and durable, and I am an experienced heavy equpment operator so it would be fun to have one of those.

[@stevedue4485]

Hey Mike, I have a 25 hp diesel Chinese one. Kubota and over 100 hours on it. So far no problems with it. I had the works on mine when ordered it. If I did it again I would do things differently. I keep my tracks extended so I would get the wider tracks but not adjustable. Two speed I never use just can’t around the hills anyway so I would not get that. Had hydraulic quick change adapter. But kept breaking hoses when digging and stuff so changed it to a manual quick connect. Much better. Boom swing I don’t really use so I probably wouldn’t get that in the future it just seems to make everything feel sloppy even. Those are my thoughts

[@Mikefestiva]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts on your mini 👍 I do really appreciate it. I have a swing boom on my Yanmar and it’s also a little sloppy, I just figured it was because it’s a 30 year old machine with 3000 hours, but maybe slop is the nature of a swing boom? Definitely appreciate your thoughts on this subject. Thanks Steve 😊

[@Lee-At-Green-Pheonix-Rc]

There a re 1/14 Rc machines more expensive than that but hell beats a shovel or messing your back up and dont matter if its a CAT or a cheap mini still need maintenance parts and repairs eventually and these are basic no computers and if you can work on a mower or lawn tractor or quad bikes i reckon you can look after one of these and even a car and quad trailer can hual it around they hual 2t caravans

[@talon0863]

gas for reasons you mentioned

[@Joe-mf4jx]

I couldn’t just the diesel model. I would like a larger capacity machine but power has never been an issue. I feel like a 2 ton machine with the same motor would work just fine

[@cereus57]

Diesel is much easier to store. Like the expnding track option, especially for where you are at!

[@AndTheCorrectAnswerIs]

Get the Diesel. I have a 30yr old Kubota tractor with the exact 3 cyl engine most of those mini excavators come with. It is not expensive for maintenance and I have never had to do anything other than routine maintenance. Parts are EASY to source, there are zillions of small Kubota and Yanmar diesels out there. People saying diesels are expensive to maintain must be thinking of big semi truck engines. Diesels are quieter, produce more torque at lower rpms, last longer, and sip fuel. You can even buy off road use diesel that doesn't have any of the road use taxes added.

[@MarkDecamps]

Diesel!