Mini Excv. Info ??

[MattB4]

MattB4 - see post # 8 on the first page of this thread - that sums up the mods I have done to it.

I did add a return Hyd filter on the right side under the existing radiator and oil cooler.

I would say the things really necessary are beefing up the thumb, and changing the Hyd fluids and adding a return line filter.

Findings: the standard bucket 17" is too big for rough ground and rocks, a 12" would be perfect on this machine, I have the 8" digging bucket, 32" tilt / grading bucket, and a 24" rock/dirt sifting bucket.

Also the auger is good OK, but in rough ground it doesn't have the pressure to dislodge rocks and just stops. These are 6-8" rocks all together with other rocks and I only have the 8" auger not the 12". If you have average dirt and occasional rocks it will likely do OK, but don't expect a skid steer performance.

All in all good machine for $11 K in my case, plus 2K in auger, buckets and mods.

My Kubota is the go to for BH work - planting, digging and moving rocks so I don't put much time on the mini - takes too long to get there and no loader etc.

I likely will get a 300mm bucket (It says the new one comes with 400mm or 380mm or 420mm, different specs at different listings for this machine) eventually for my new Ex soon as I spot a good deal for it. I have a 150mm (6in) auger drill/motor due in this weekend so it should be interesting how it works and will determine if I get the larger auger drill (200m or 300mm) to use on it.

I am also getting a ripper and 800mm smooth bucket for ditch cleaning duties. I had these for my Mark X but sold them off with it so needed replacements.

It should be an interesting contrast from running the Mark X 1 ton gas to a 2 ton diesel with pilot controls. The new one if it travels at the 2.1kmh rated will be a bit faster than the 1 ton was.