My thoughts and in depth review of the Hyundai HX85A after a 100 hours

[@gungadinn]

For fueling, think that requiring you to open the machine up is also a way of saying, while you're here, check the other fluids.

[@DirtPerfect]

Yup good point

[@jameshicks4831]

It also makes it kind of hard to just walk up and fill up someone power stroke that might be passing threw in the neighborhood.

[@dacurlydac3042]

I was thinking the same thing, should at least check the oil every time you fuel up anyways.

[@LIFEISHARDSTUPID]

Never thought of it like that. Good shit man👍👍

[@carlthor91]

@@dacurlydac3042 Mike I believe said 12 hr per fill. Time to grease, also makes you note any developing conditions. Best wishes from the far North.

[@paulneuman2303]

Fuel cap under hood sounds like a good safety feature when sitting a jobsite. So nobody can doctor the fuel.

[@stuartandrews4344]

+1

[@dangerrangerlstc]

Or siphon it out. That door is lockable I think.

[@valdo345jr]

keeps crud away from the filler neck, too.

[@littlefinkle7757]

My 306 has the radio and AC controls built into the monitor. I have a control knob I can work the monitor with right next to the right arm rest. It also has a beeper silence switch for when you are needing hear a spotter. Hyundai has come a long way with comfort features for sure.

[@williambryant5946]

The off switch for the beeper needs to be on all equipment. Those things drive me nuts. Some of them on track hoes now beep anytime you move not just while traveling. Annoying as hell.

[@Jamieclarke88]

Personally I was impressed with the machine especially on the camp job moving trees that was a great presentation of how well balanced it is the power it has also thanks for the video dp and to Hyundai for giving us all the opportunity of seeing their machines at a operational perspective 👍👍

[@jcadult101]

Hood/gas cap. I've watched a lot of 'old machine left out in the woods' recoveries and the machines with covers are in so much better shape. Cutting a hole for the filler to extend outside means water, dirt & debris can migrate in. While not something you're going to notice short term, I think over time it helps protect everything under there.

[@jeffreykbevins7116]

I have watched you use the HX85A several times and you seem to be really pleased with the way it operates. And I have to say that I like the machine, also. So it gets my approval, thumbs up !!! Keep on pushing and digging dirt and having fun at the go kart track. Stay safe. As always, Jeffrey !!!

[@OldVermontGuy]

Greetings from Central NH Lakes Region - Thanks for the product review. You did a great job talking us through the equipment, clear and logical with your personal insights and thought process being easy to follow. Always good to hear from someone with dirt and grease under your fingernails who has logged hours in a piece of equipment in a variety of job settings so you can speak to how it handles in different conditions. I was really impressed with your focus on the maintenance accessibility and mechanical maintainability of this model - maybe some other manufacturers like Kabota and Cat will start listening to guys like you and put more thought into these real issues for owner/operators.

[@DirtPerfect]

Thanks appreciate that

[@ronaldheit196]

Nice machine. Simple answer to that sun screen rod is paint it red with NO GRAB in red down it like a military piece of equipment would have. A simple clamp and 8 inch pipe to a 90 degree plumbing elbow to a 4 foot pipe then another elbow and clamp on the top to the outside handhold would fix the external in out grab bar dilima.

[@cyndikarp3368]

I have been amazed at the power in this Hyundai. When you lifted big tree at river, it told the true story. Saw one in my little town.

[@budlvr]

After MONTHES of watching you and Kleeman operate this machine, and what it can do, this IS JUST THE REVIEW I EXPECTED ! I really think you should add one to the DP Fleet. And Hyundai, THANKS for putting this HX85A in Mike's hands; good or bad, you just got the truth !

[@rontopping2048]

Great honest review. I believe all excavators are pilot controls. I don't know of any brand that has went to all electric like the skid steers. Even the bobcat excavators still have hydraulic lines running up to joystick valves. Thanks again for great review

[@bobbrinkerhoff3592]

There's another reason to have the fuel fill under the hood, if it's out of sight, it's out of mind. Less likely for late night visitors to your job site vandalizing your fuel tank, then with a visible fill cap. Would this be a viable replacement for the 308 or is it too big for small areas ?I meant to say 304, too many gun and ammo videos coming out ahead of deer season.

[@robertvannicolo4435]

Mike I have run a small Hyundai mini ex a few times I liked the machine did what I needed it to do in real tight areas I was using it I just purchased a Kubota U35 and so far I have been more then expressed with the power of the loader has 30 hrs on it now use mostly for tree work and small drainage projects

[@stuartandrews4344]

Want to try the Volvo ECR88D, roughly same weight group as the HX85A.for a comparison

[@jamesdiehl8690]

Agreed on the fuel cap! A lot of contractors have been vandalized! Someone either stealing the gas, damaging the equipment with putting something in the tank. I agree with ya Dirt on the blade! It does need to raise and lower more. I don't care for the shape and size of the blade either. When I look at a blade on equipment, I think what would it push? Or, what would it dig? Not, does it make a good doorstop! I know it's supposed to help with leveling, but I see other blades that are shaped more like a dozer blade. Curved from bottom to top, with a decent edge on it. That one looks like a log splitting wedge. If you have to use 2 or 3 pieces of equipment to do something one should do, you spend more time jumping on and off machines and you need a trailer 100 ft long to carry them all to a job.

[@littlefinkle7757]

Yanmar is a great engine manufacturer. Deere uses them as well in their tractors and small equipment. The fuel cap under the hood is a little aggravating especially if it's on the trailer while at the fuel station, but would not be a deal breaker. The reach is awesome for sure. Good review! Enjoy your Friday!

[@guyhowell8176]

I have a yanmar vio35. It also has the fuel under the hood. I don’t mind it and it keeps the fuel cap secure by locking hood.

[@jimwesselman]

Your comments are very informative, since I don’t run or own one I will take your word on it!

[@sonnyblazer5504]

Already? Seems like you just got that HX85. Great (unbiased) review, MIKE and we've all heard you 'tell it like it is + or - ". This has been an interesting machine for those of us who have seen all the videos with it. If & when it's left you with a surprise, it's ALWAYS been a good one and I refer to the REACH (little kid has LONG arms!) Shout out to the corporate & dealer support you've received as well. Good job & thanks. Sonny

[@kidhenderson8260]

Holds 30 gals. so burning about 2.5 gals per hour using the 12 hours you mentioned. Very impressed with what I saw.

[@williammatthews2948]

I'm thinking about buying a small excavator for the sole purpose of helping my wife when she makes biscuits. Lol. Seriously though, I like this machine. Have a blessed and safe weekend, and please stay healthy.

[@DirtPerfect]

Lol thanks

[@richardbohlingsr3490]

I was pretty impressed overall with the machine. Two areas missed were how it did digging and loading from a pile with a big 36" bucket and work close in like a plumber would use it. For a 10 ton machine it's balance and stability were outstanding. It's about as perfect a replacement for the Deere as you can get.

[@grilnam9945]

I suppose there’s a small advantage to opening the full panel when fuelling, as it encourages you to look at the hydraulic fittings at that time, and you may catch a potential problem sooner.

[@DirtPerfect]

👍

[@bump6469]

The reach is what is amazing and to have the stability at that reach. Thanks for the awesome vidjas appreciate it a lot 👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@stanwooddave9758]

A BIG SHOUT-OUT to Hyundai, for lending you the machine, for an honest assessment of their equipment. I have no doubt, that if their was something that the engineer's got terribly wrong, you would have pointed it out. Can you spell K-u-b-o-t-a. I would have thought that the good people @ Hyundai (wink, wink) would have wanted a more insightful, thought provoking / analyzing opinion, say man-behind-the-scene's, instead they went {2nd fiddle} with Mr. Dirt-Perfect. It was their choice. Thanks for sharing.

[@shelbydog1100]

I was really impressed with the way it handled the big logs by your dock. I agree with you on the handle placement. Opening the hood to fuel up isn’t that big of a deal. When you think about it you always check your oil and fill the fuel when start using it.

[@lhr1701]

Good afternoon Mike , Here is my thought about having to open the hood to fuel the machine is this . If you have an observant person doing the fueling they may catch something before it becomes a problem . So a little inconvenience may save your bacon . And if you would buy this machine steel or rubber for the tracks ? I see most of the time you are loading the machines off the road .

[@brucehuff5566]

You guys gave it a really good test many different situations looks like it performed better than average in all situations. Thanks for always taking us along. Stay safe

[@Thecowboy1950]

I’m very Impressed with that machine

[@garymiller6563]

It's better to have to raise the hood. It helps you remember to look at all of the other levels and fluids.

[@williamrobinson6798]

Can the left hand arm rest could swing out maybe .

[@martineastburn3679]

Fuel fill under seems ok to me - it is behind a key and prevents theft if left on site overnight. That is a wonder of a machine. It is a beauty of design.

[@samuelbentley6072]

I am very impressed and would definitely recommend this to anyone in the market.

[@jaquigreenlees]

A smaller machine than the 120 or 140, yet it compares well to them for productivity, 2 feet less extension aside. If you were to add a machine of this size to your fleet it would fit into most jobs well. Even with the WB two tine thumb for all the clearing you do. It would definitely not be wasted money to add one to your fleet.

[@Crewsy]

@20:05 The handle vs sunshade track. Perhaps Hyundai should make it all one part. Design the handle with a track for the shade to run in so there isn’t a thin little rod that you might errantly grab on to.

[@python3574]

To get the extra range out of the blade it would have to be extended outwards, but with the reach capability the machine has the bucket would probably then get into the blade, so just like the digging in close “shortcoming”, it’s a trade-off. Having operated a couple other brand small excavators, I cant count the number of times I wished I had just 1or 2 more feet of reach, but I can count on my fingerless hand how many times I wished I could dig in closer better. IMO, the homerun Hyundai has probably hit with this machine is maximizing all of the most desirable capabilities over the lesser desirable capabilities. Note: If I had to open the cover on my Kubota to refuel it, I would have noticed the mouse nest LONG BEFORE they ate thru my coolant hoses and AC wiring!!

[@DirtPerfect]

Not completely true look at the set up on my other machine much closer and more range

[@gotdeeres]

I presently own three JD tractors with the Yanmar diesels. I have owned around 12 others and had very few problems. About the only problem was the fuel shutoff solenoid on a couple of them. Maintenance looks simple.

[@DirtPerfect]

Yup same here good engines

[@stevenwescott1422]

Excellent review. I'm definitely considering one

[@randallnottingham799]

I respect you enough because you always give your honest opinion on things so that’s good enough for me buddy

[@DirtPerfect]

Thanks

[@groundupexcavation]

My Volvo ecr88 has the fuel and hydraulic fluid under one hood on the back of the machine. Not a big deal to me. Just gotta remember to swing so I can step on the track to comfortably get to it. Yours seems to be easier to get to

[@DirtPerfect]

👍

[@groundupexcavation]

@@DirtPerfect do you think it would still be pretty well balanced with a 3ft digging bucket? My Volvo is pretty tipsy with it heaped up, it has the extra counterweight.

[@drmckinley]

You can add fuel when raining. No water in tank.

[@bertrutledge4546]

Thanks for review and your thoughts. As always you seem to give a very frank and professional opinion.

[@DirtPerfect]

Thanks

[@robertwinton2649]

I really am enjoying this review I like it keep up the good work I'm proud of you

[@DirtPerfect]

Thanks

[@terrybergin4921]

Very professional, expert, thorough and useful review.

[@DirtPerfect]

Glad it was helpful!

[@thomasleonard1846]

I see serviceability as more important than access to the fuel tank!

[@toddreynolds8875]

Great review. I’ve been missing in action lol. , your right on with the reach. That little Hyundai 35z9a I got. Has 2 or 3 feet more reach then anything that size comparable. Can load nicely right over triable. Love the machine to dig with , only downfall is a slight lack of track pushing power. And could use 5 or 6 more hp. My old yanmar. 37. Out pushes it like crazy. , But the Hyundai has absolutely perfect timing for digging and raking back and forth.

[@DirtPerfect]

Thanks and glade to see you back

[@eaglerider1826]

The only issue I see with the location of the fuel cap is every time you install or remove the nozzle you have the chance of dripping fuel on the hydraulic lines . We've watched you refueling other equipment many times just using one hand . May not be an issue on a one time spill but over the years may become an issue . The tank's filler neck could have been raised where it is flush with the cover and could be refueled without raising it . Just one guy's opinion .

[@hollandduck79]

from the Netherlands thanks for the video DP

[@maxobara1496]

Nice review, both of you guys are getting the word out to the guy’s that need it. Very helpful I think. 👍🇺🇸

[@tbix1963]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts and opinions. From a novice perspective I really like this machine, seems very nice. As many have pointed out, the fuel filler location may be to encourage you to make a quick inspection and check the oil, only thing they might do to further encourage things would be, a sticker placed in easy view with a checklist of what to look for, and maybe an disposable oil rag dispenser. 😂 Too bad they had you send it back, but if they are happy with the outcome maybe they will drop off something else cool to check out in the future. Wishing you and your family the best.

[@TheHelgadog]

Hyundai looks like a good machine. Appears simple and reliable. A real money maker with little down time. Great review and as always awesome video. Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@DirtPerfect]

Thanks

[@raymondheckard234]

It is a good idea to require you to open the hood to fuel, it requires you to do a visual inspection of the valve body for leaks and remind you to check the other fluids. After watching the video, I think it would be smart to see if Hyundai will gut you a deal to purchase this unit, and add it to the dirt perfect fleet of equipment permanently. You really need to keep it and get Hyundai be a sponsor of your channel.

[@merlepatterson]

You forgot to mention the off center digging operation dynamics?

[@ibtm]

I agree--excellent machine!!! And--a really objective report on it--nice work!!

[@DirtPerfect]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@leer-winnobbeefarms2131]

Great machine! Wish I had one. It would run circles around my Case 480C.

[@bryanmartin4679]

What would you think of incorporating the air conditioner controls in the touch screen?

[@DirtPerfect]

Possibly

[@mandeladams4793]

Covered cab space for larger people; how does this machine work for the other half of the population? There are struggles on both sides of the line, I myself am closer to man behind the scenes height, some machines didn't give enough adjustments in seat, armrests to comfortably use the track functions while the hand controls. Are the other individuals who operated this machine going to give their results too?

[@davethornton8551]

I wanna run one of these new Hyundai machines one day . The cat 305e2 I ran last was not quite up to par in my opinion .. cab completely sux in them , blade was very flimsy.. This Hyundai machine looked to be a step above on design , balance.,etc . Great review by the way DP ..

[@DirtPerfect]

Think you will like it

[@michaelambrogio5578]

Great machine well balanced you put that thing to the test and it was excellent

[@robf2251]

Looks like the one you had is for sale in Bardstown KY. 96,000 Same bucket & thumb. Nice machine 101 hours on it

[@cdish33]

I got one question.. why is that mirror on the front of the cab facing the boom?

[@DirtPerfect]

Because it’s tuned that way will swing around

[@valdo345jr]

thanks DP. that was a long term demo of a very capable machine. were i in the market, i would definately look at hyundai.

[@johnmattu7262]

Great review, seems to be a good machine. To me the local dealer support and parts availability plays a huge factor in my decisions also.

[@DirtPerfect]

Yup thanks

[@michaeladams8532]

Well done review I can see why they loaned you this to test

[@DirtPerfect]

Thanks

[@d.wgriffin3174]

it`s a 10 out of 10 in my books!

[@PatrickBaldwin1]

Wife walked into the room in the middle and thought that you could go to a car dealership to price one out. :) I was impressed with it once the thumb was installed.

[@nathanielsmith6834]

What is your opinion on the rubber tracks vs. a steel track with rubber pads?

[@DirtPerfect]

All depends on the type of job for the machine for this size I like the rubber gives you more options but any bigger I would want steal

[@thomasyerbey337]

Great video Mike 🇺🇲 I really appreciate you sharing this information 🇺🇲

[@DirtPerfect]

Thanks

[@dansevern3291]

Opening that side to fuel might be unusual, but back in the day, you had to open the "hood" on a VW to put fuel in it. Of course, first thing in the morning, dew dripping off that cover might run down your neck.

[@f250ford2004]

In my opinion it's a great machine that does anything you need it do and more!!!!!

[@BlueDually4x4]

I also kind of think having the filler neck out of sight is a good idea, especially since you can lock all the doors. Keep people from stealing fuel or the battery. It is an impressive machine.

[@maxmacdonald7174]

Sound like a great machine. To bad it dose not come with a maid to clean up after certain operators.

[@jenniferwhitewolf3784]

🤣🤣🤣🤣👏👏

[@eaglerider1826]

I thought that was Aaron's job .

[@cathiwim]

@@eaglerider1826 used to be Kleeman’s but he got smart!

[@eaglerider1826]

@@cathiwim Lol , true but he still gets blamed for everything that goes wrong .

[@shawndinterman2219]

Does the hood lock? If it locks seems okay to have the fuel under the hood

[@DirtPerfect]

Yes

[@gl309495]

I noticed the machine has a swivel at the "shoulder" for the boom next to the cab, bit I don't remember it ever being used. Is that a useful function to have ?

[@DirtPerfect]

Yes it is

[@briankaitschuck125]

Mike your in love with that machine take the hit and buy it.

[@christophergoodman5107]

when i was on the MTN .logging I really absolutely hated having too clean around the fuel cap, so, for me, that is an awesome spot. I think you should have done the egg challenge side-by-side w/the 304

[@thomasdesmond2248]

The computers screen is intuitive. God bless

[@seanpierce7673]

This machine is great. I watched you and capt. Run it. For the size and what it's done for you and capt. It wud make a excellent unit for city's for doing jobs such as pipe work or for road work cause if it's size and power. Evan for smaller outfits doing forestry work.this machine and let's dig 18 with that mulcher head would be awsome for some of the work road builders do on logging roads. As far as digging out Culver's and evan for cleaning out pipes.overall nice unit

[@Bman2020]

A great review DP a lot of info for folks to chew on what’s next

[@DirtPerfect]

Thanks and good ?

[@casycasy5199]

great review .i think fueling it by opening the hood might be a good thing, while fueling you can inspect the things under the hood, and maybe catch things before something bad happens

[@DirtPerfect]

thanks

[@6582rg]

With all the cell phones out there now, a couple USB ports would be a nice feature versus the DC plug. Good review DP. I’d like to see what their bigger excavators are like. Something you could compare to the 120.

[@sammosher1812]

I know it's basically twice the weight of your Cat mini but is it an acceptable replacement for that size machine? In other words if you could have one or the other which would you choose and what would be the #1 reason for that choice?

[@DirtPerfect]

The smaller one for my operation

[@VideosByAl]

Is the Thumb variable speed or is it an on off button ? Buddy has a 2017 Deere 85G and I hate the buttons when loading log onto trailers.

[@DirtPerfect]

It’s variable speed and adjustable

[@paulr5875]

Thanks for the great information Mike!

[@kristystaats8390]

Wish I had it

[@adubbelde1]

Filling the Hyundai with fuel is a lot easier than my 37 Chev PU, You have to open the cab door and take out the passenger seat cushion. :). But that's not going to happen any more. Tank will be relocated behind the axle under the bed.

[@DirtPerfect]

Lol true

[@jcadult101]

13:10 Sure, it fits you but can Aaron reach the peddles?

[@maxium4x4]

I run a JD 5100M tractor for a friend of mine, stupid mirror, hit my head on the mirror every time I get in and out...... 😁 I know the young guns like all this fancy electronics, give it the 20 year look back, will you have support in 20 years? It crept into farm machinery and Mice are the number one problem we face at times, one rodent can create havoc. For example, I know where a 850J dozer is for sale, cheap, because Fiefel went chewing through the wiring harness. Sounds like a win for Hyundai in comfort, productivity and maintenance, as far as the fuel tank, keeps kids from dropping rocks into the tank while unattended perhaps. 😎 Out of sight out of mind.

[@jcadult101]

Sadly, long gone are the days of simple diesel. All that gov required emissions headache brought the electronic interface and with it 'why not just put everything on there'.

[@rodneystewart8958]

I would like to see their 200 size machine

[@alexthomson7659]

It is a awesome bit of kit did all you and captain asked it in the videos but can it cook captains breakfast

[@idadho]

Great review. You thoroughly covered all the points. Next time you have an opportunity to spec a Korean Machine, remember that Koreans are not a tall group of people. They did quite well making it fit tall operators. Any taller and Aaron could not reach the overhead. "Hey Mike. Will you come aim the air conditioner vents for me. They are freezing the few hairs I have left."

[@DirtPerfect]

Thanks mark

[@claytonl.covell2634]

Nice review!!.. That's a pretty neat machine.

[@DirtPerfect]

Thanks

[@oklahomachris6298]

Did I miss you talking about the swing. The few ex I’ve run it seems the swing function is weak like when trying to slide the bucket on the ground to move dirt to the side or something. Maybe that’s not something any REAL operator worries about but I wondered? I like the fuel cap where it’s at mine is exposed and dirt gets all over it and then you know it gets inside a bit of the tank. Like the Hyundai I’d buy it tomorrow if I was rich. 6’ 5’’ no way gunner almost tall as you lol or is the mat MBTS?

[@DirtPerfect]

This one is not bad at all

[@josephdriscoll8527]

Vary nice you get to run the best without opening your checkbook ,definitely a great piece and nice review

[@kimblastein]

When the demo is Done i would bye one if i Was you Mike considering Howe mutch it impressed you

[@dirtguy6537]

Mike you just made yourself a Hyundai salesman.

[@DirtPerfect]

Lol

[@MWestern-m4g]

Even serviceable by a lawn gnome, MBTS!!! Nice way of putting it DP

[@jeffreyagnitsch8069]

Just out of curiosity what do you think is the strongest 8 ton class? I am in the market and trying to decide between a couple of brands.

[@DirtPerfect]

Hyundai

[@jeffreyagnitsch8069]

@@DirtPerfect do you remember if this was a long arm, was talking to dealer nearby, the reach on this this is awesome and one of the things i'm looking for in an excavator. They are also a kobelco dealer, so comparing the sk85 and the hx85a. Just curious if you had ran one of those, and if this one was a long arm or standard

[@herbybrooks5131]

How do you think it would handle a chipper sreader.

[@DirtPerfect]

Not a problem for it

[@thomasbailey8306]

I like the machine. I just dont like the rubber tracks. That heavy of a machine it should have steel tracks.. Can You get one with steel tracks..It seemed to be a good little machine. I used to operate an older CAT 307 SSR And when my boss bought it for me It had rubber tracks. After a month of operating I asked to see if he could get steel tracks and What a Difference between the 2.. Yea rubber doesnt tear up as much but You get Alot more hours out of Steel...Great video Thanks for sharing..

[@DirtPerfect]

This size machine I would not what steel track would eliminate lot of possible jobs