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Compact (Mini) Excavator Buyer’s Guide: Part 3 of 6
From tail swing and transportability to cost considerations, these are key factors to keep in mind when buying a compact excavator.
Table of Contents:
What to Look for When Buying a Compact (Mini) Excavator
Selecting the right compact (mini) excavator is a critical decision for anyone taking on a construction or landscaping project. Consider key factors including tail swing, attachment couplers, transportability and cost to help you decide which excavator is best for your specific application.
Sizes and Weight
Size and weight are essential factors when selecting a compact excavator, as they directly impact the machine's transportability, maneuverability and ground pressure. Smaller, lighter excavators are easier to transport and maneuver in tight spaces but may have lower lifting capacities and digging depths than larger, heavier machines. Understanding the capabilities of each tonnage size will help you choose the right compact excavator for your needs.
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Compact Excavator Specifications
When choosing a compact excavator, you’ll need to consider whether the specifications of the machine are suitable for the specific tasks and environments you’ll encounter on the job. Factors such as horsepower, operating capacity, dig depth, reach and swing radius all play a pivotal role in a compact excavator’s performance and capabilities.
Operating Weight
Operating weight directly influences lift capacity and stability during operation. It also helps indicate transportation ease and compliance with site regulations regarding weight limits. By selecting an excavator with an appropriate operating weight, you can achieve optimal performance and efficiency for the jobs you do the most.
Maximum Dig Depth
Maximum depth refers to the deepest point a compact excavator can dig. It is essential to choose a machine with a digging depth that meets your project requirements.
Maximum Dump Height
Dump height is the maximum height a compact excavator can lift a load. This factor is essential when working with elevated platforms or dumping materials into trucks or bins.
Maximum Reach
Maximum reach is the farthest distance an excavator's arm can extend horizontally. It is essential to choose a machine with sufficient reach for your specific project requirements.
Bucket Capacity
Bucket capacity refers to the volume of material a compact excavator's bucket can hold. A larger bucket capacity allows the machine to move more material, increasing productivity.
Engine Power (Horsepower)
High horsepower engines deliver more power for digging, lifting, slewing and multifunctional capabilities, including the operation of heavy-duty attachments. Higher horsepower engines can help operators perform tasks more quickly and efficiently. Machine speed is also related to engine power.
Hydraulic Flow and Pressure
Hydraulic flow and pressure are important to your compact excavator's attachment performance and the range of attachments you can use with your compact excavator. If attachments are an important consideration in your compact excavator purchase, be sure to select a machine that can perform with the attachments you need for your work.
For more information on important specs for compact excavators, see the specs section in Exploring Compact Excavator Sizes and Specifications.
Compact Excavator Arms
Bobcat compact excavators are available with various arm configurations to suit specific applications and job-site requirements. For example, an extendable arm option allows you to use the power and lifting performance of a standard-length arm, but it also provides additional reach on demand for specific tasks.
Choose from three types of compact excavator arms:
- Standard arm
- Long arm
- Extendable arm
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Compact Excavator Engines & Horsepower
Higher horsepower engines provide more power to optimize lift capacity, attachment production levels and more, allowing the machine to perform tasks more quickly and efficiently.
Bobcat® engines are designed to provide reliable performance, high fuel efficiency and reduced emissions in compact excavators.
- Forgiving fuel system: A forgiving fuel system makes low fuel levels less of a challenge.
- Larger fuel filter: A large fuel filter delivers extended system protection and ease of maintenance.
- Self-priming fuel pump: A self-priming system eliminates the need for a primer bulb.
- Quieter operation: Low noise levels make operation more comfortable.
- Longer oil service interval: An increased engine oil service interval of 750 hours increases operator uptime.
Horsepower is more than just a number on a spec sheet. Each component - including the engine, hydraulic pumps and overall hydraulic system – has the potential to affect the amount of usable power available to complete a task, whether it’s digging a hole or working with an attachment. Some excavators have torque-limiting piston pumps in the hydraulic system that allow the machine to match force with demand and continuously respond to loads.
Learn More: Bobcat Engine
Fuel Type: Electric or Diesel
If you do a lot of indoor projects or work in areas where noise restrictions restrict your working hours, an electric compact excavator could be a great addition to your fleet. Battery-powered excavators have zero emissions and low noise levels, which can help you work around certain pollution or noise regulations. Electric compact excavators may allow you to do tasks that bring extra opportunity for investment.
Diesel-powered compact excavators generally come with a lower price tag, and they offer job-proven power and performance that is hard to beat – especially when engine noise and exhaust are not a concern. Because diesel-powered compact excavators can use the same attachments as other diesel-powered Bobcat equipment, it can help you maximize efficiency and utilization across your equipment fleet.
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Find A DealerTail Swing Types
Compact excavators come in various designs regarding tail swing, which refers to the amount of overhang or movement an e excavator's counterweight (rear end) occupies while rotating beyond the width of its tracks.
The three primary types of tail swing configurations are zero tail swing, minimal tail swing and conventional tail swing. Each configuration has its unique advantages and challenges depending on the working environment and project requirements.
Zero Tail Swing (ZTS)
On a zero tail swing excavator, the rear counterweight does not extend beyond the width of the tracks at any point during rotation. This design allows for greater mobility in tight spaces, as there is no risk of the counterweight hitting nearby objects or obstacles when the machine is turning. ZTS excavators are ideal for urban construction, confined spaces, and projects with limited access.
Zero tail swing excavators in the Bobcat equipment lineup include: E10, E10e, E20, E35, E38
Minimal Tail Swing
Minimal tail swing excavators have a slight overhang (usually less than 10% of the machine width) beyond the width of the tracks during rotation. This design offers a balance between the tight working space advantages of zero tail swing and the stability and lifting capacity of conventional tail swing. Minimal tail swing machines are suitable for projects with some space restrictions, where maneuverability and stability are both important considerations.
Minimal tail swing excavators in the Bobcat equipment lineup include: E26, E40, E55
The E145, one of the large excavators from Bobcat, has a reduced tail swing of 9.1 inches. This is slightly longer than the minimal tail swing, which is usually less than 6 inches. Explore E145
Conventional (Traditional) Tail Swing
Conventional tail swing excavators have a more significant overhang, with the counterweight extending beyond the width of the tracks during rotation. This design provides better stability and lifting capacity compared to ZTS and minimal tail swing excavators. However, they require more working space and caution when operating near obstacles or in confined areas.
Conventional tail swing excavators in the Bobcat equipment lineup include: E19e, E32, E48, E60, E88, E165
Attachment Couplers
Attachment couplers, also known as quick couplers, are essential components that allow compact excavators to switch between various attachments quickly and efficiently. There are several types of attachment couplers designed for compact excavators.
Pin-On Couplers
Pin-on couplers require manual intervention to connect the attachment to the excavator. This process involves aligning the attachment pins with the holes in the excavator's stick and securing them with retaining pins. While this type of coupler is secure and offers a direct connection to the machine, it can be time-consuming and labor-intensive to switch between attachments.
Mechanical Quick Couplers
Mechanical quick couplers are designed for quicker and easier attachment changes compared to pin-on couplers. These couplers feature a manual locking mechanism that securely holds the attachment in place without the need for manual pinning. To change attachments, the operator must leave the cab to engage and disengage the locking mechanism. Mechanical quick couplers are more efficient than pin-on couplers but still require some manual effort.
Hydraulic Quick Couplers
Hydraulic quick couplers are the most advanced and user-friendly option for switching between attachments. These couplers use the excavator's hydraulic system to engage and disengage the locking mechanism, allowing the operator to change attachments without leaving the cab. Hydraulic quick couplers significantly increase productivity by reducing the time and effort required for attachment changes. Bobcat offers the optional Hydraulic X-Change™ system for some of the fastest attachment changes in the industry. This enhanced version of the standard X-Change mounting system, available for the Bobcat family of compact excavators, allows you to switch buckets and attachments with little more than the press of a switch from inside the cab.
Hydraulic X-Change™
Bobcat offers the optional Hydraulic X-Change™ system for some of the fastest attachment changes in the industry. This enhanced version of the standard X-Change mounting system, available for the Bobcat family of compact excavators, allows you to switch buckets and attachments with little more than the press of a switch from inside the cab.
Hydraulic Tilt Coupler
Hydraulic tilt couplers offer greater attachment rotation for leading job-site productivity. Operators can quickly adjust the bucket or attachment angle rather than repositioning the excavator, saving operator time and effort. Available on the E88 and the E145, hydraulic tilt couplers can rotate any bucket or other attachment 134 degrees, or as much as 180 degrees, depending on the coupler model.
For more information on important specs for compact excavators, refer to the specifications section in Exploring Compact Excavator Sizes and Specifications and Compact Excavator Features and Options.
Transportability
When choosing a compact excavator, consider its size and weight to ensure it aligns with your transportation needs. These dimensions directly impact ease of transportation, determining the type of trailer or truck required to move the excavator between job sites and whether any additional permits are needed.
How to Trailer & Transport Compact Excavator
Machine Size
While larger excavators require a bigger trailer or truck for transportation, smaller compact excavators offer greater maneuverability throughout transport, which allows them to work in tight spaces and navigate around obstacles more easily.
Machine Weight
The weight of the compact excavator affects the type of vehicle needed to tow it, the trailer’s load capacity and the overall cost of transportation. Heavier machines may require a more robust towing vehicle, specialized trailers and additional permits depending on local regulations. A lighter excavator will be easier to transport, reducing costs and logistical challenges. Most small excavators can be transported on a 10,000-pound trailer, though you should always check the transport vehicle’s load rating, which can be found on its identification plan or in the equipment owner’s manual. Load ratings vary in each state, so always check federal, state and local laws and regulations. Special approvals or permits may be required for oversize loads.
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Cost and Budget Considerations
Compact excavators are versatile, powerful and efficient machines that can help increase productivity in various industries. However, there are several cost and budget considerations when purchasing a compact excavator.
By evaluating new versus used machines, initial costs, operating costs, maintenance and repair costs, and financing options, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs and budget. With the right compact excavator, you can increase your job-site productivity and efficiency, saving time and money in the long run.
New Versus Used Compact Excavators
One of the first decisions you'll need to make when purchasing a compact excavator is whether to buy a new or used machine. New compact excavators offer the latest technology, better warranties and the assurance of a reliable, brand-new machine. However, they typically come with a higher price tag.
Used compact excavators, on the other hand, are more affordable but may have higher maintenance costs and shorter lifespans depending on their age and usage
Initial Cost
The initial cost of a compact excavator is determined by factors such as the make and model, size features, and whether the machine is new or used. Smaller basic models will generally be more affordable than larger feature-rich models. Be sure to compare prices from different dealers and manufacturers to ensure you're getting the best deal.
Operating Costs
Operating costs for a compact excavator include fuel, oil, lubricants and consumable parts, such as filters and belts. When comparing compact excavators, consider the machine's fuel efficiency and the availability and cost of replacement parts. Additionally, consider the cost of attachments, as these can significantly impact the overall operating cost of the machine.
Maintenance and Repair Costs
Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring the reliability and longevity of your compact excavator. Maintenance costs include scheduled services, such as oil and filter changes, and unscheduled repairs due to wear and tear or unforeseen issues.
When considering a compact excavator, research its maintenance requirements and the availability and cost of replacement parts. A well-maintained used compact excavator could be a cost-effective alternative to buying a new piece of equipment.
For more information on compact excavator service and maintenance considerations, read our guide.
Financing Options
If you're unable to pay for a compact excavator upfront, there are several financing options available. These include loans, leases and rental agreements. Keep an eye out for rebates on specific models when financing.
Loans typically involve a down payment and monthly payments over a set term, while leases may offer lower monthly payments with the option to purchase the machine at the end of the lease term. Rental agreements allow you to use a compact excavator for a specific period without the commitment of ownership. Each financing option has its advantages and drawbacks, so be sure to consult with a financial advisor to determine the best option for your needs and budget.
Rental/Renting
Renting compact excavators is a cost-effective and flexible solution for those who require powerful digging machines for short-term projects. The benefits of renting include access to the latest technology, reduced maintenance and storage costs, and the ability to choose the right size and attachments based on project requirements.
When renting, it's essential to consider factors such as the project's needs, rental duration, the reputation of the rental company, equipment condition and insurance coverage. To ensure a smooth rental experience, book in advance, ask for a demonstration, plan for transportation and carefully review the rental agreement.
Learn More: 5 Benefits of Large Excavator Rental
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Find A DealerDealer Support and Brand Reputation
When investing in a compact excavator, it’s important to consider the dealer support and brand reputation associated with the machine so you can maximize the value of your compact excavator.
Dealer Support
A reputable dealer can make a significant difference in your ownership experience and the long-term value of your purchase. Look for dealerships that have a solid track record of excellent customer service, timely maintenance support and readily available parts.
A dealer with a dedicated service department and knowledgeable staff ensures that your compact excavator receives regular maintenance, repairs and any necessary warranty work promptly and efficiently.
Brand Reputation
Additionally, choosing a brand with a strong reputation in the industry provides confidence in the machine's quality, durability and performance. Established brands often have a wide network of dealerships, making it easier to find support and access genuine parts.
Take the time to research and choose a dealer and brand with a reputation for reliable products and exceptional customer care to maximize the value and longevity of your compact excavator investment.
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Warranty
Choosing a compact excavator with a solid warranty helps protect your investment and ensures that you can rely on the manufacturer's support should any issues arise. Look for a brand that offers comprehensive warranty coverage for both the machine and its components.
These are some key areas to review within a warranty:
- Pay attention to the duration of the warranty and what it specifically covers, including engine, hydraulic system, electrical components and structural integrity. Some warranties may also include coverage for parts and labor.
- Consider the warranty's transferability if you plan to sell the excavator in the future. A longer warranty period indicates the manufacturer's confidence in the quality and reliability of their product.
- Review the warranty terms and conditions to understand any limitations or requirements, such as regular maintenance and using authorized service centers.
Learn More: Warranty Plans
Making an Informed Buying Decision
There are many important factors that will help you choose the right compact excavator, from size, weight and specifications to attachments, operator comfort and safety, transportability, cost and dealer support, in addition to brand reputation and warranties.
When you make an informed decision about your purchase of a compact excavator, you’ll choose a machine that’s tailored to your project needs, budget and preferences.
