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Mini-excavator Category:

Ultra-mini-ex

A note about machine class designations and specifications :

Because of the large number of machines stocked at our various branches (and ever-changing inventory) it is not possible to provide you spec sheets on each individual unit within our system.  Therefore, we have selected a sample model from each category that is reasonably representative of most machines that we stock which fall into that same category.  For instance, the unit below will provide you typical specifications for all machines in this particular class or size category.

A word of caution: If a particular dimension or specification is of critical importance to the success of your project, please speak to our dispatchers about that directly - do not assume that the specifications listed here will be exactly what you will get when your machine arrives.  The onus is on you to ensure the machine you order will do what you need it to.   For instance, if you have a width or height restriction, be sure to measure exactly what your minimum clearance is.  For example, if you have only 48" clearance for width, do not assume that a machine ordered in the 4-foot class will fit - it could easily measure 49" or 50", and still be considered a 4-foot class machine.  The same goes for dig-depth, reach, weight, lift height, lift capacity, and so on.

example shown:

Bobcat 316

Attachments approved / available for this class

Augers (bit sizes 6, 9"), concrete breakers may be available. Check with dispatch to determine local availability.

approx specifications

for this machine category:

Ultra mini-excavator class

*machine width (minimum access req'd for machine to enter dig area): 28 inches

practical working width (to allow minimal dig, swing, dump cycle):    4-5 ft

minimal swing width (to allow 180-degree turn to dump behind):      7-8 ft

tail swing type (conventional / zero tail / zero house):                conventional

machine height (to top of cab, for access to dig area):   roll bar folds down: 6 ft

     (remember, boom requires much more height to actually dig once in the dig area)

machine weight / excavator weight class:               2000 lbs / 1 ton

tracks (type):                                        rubber, expandable

engine (fuel, appx horsepwr):                                diesel, 12 hp

lift capacity (load in tight to machine, just in front of blade):  500 lbs

       (when boom-load is further outstretched, capacity diminished due to leverage factor)

maximum dig depth:                                               7 feet

maximum practical digging depth:                            6 feet

maximum reach, at ground level:                            10 feet

bucket sizes: width (typical sizes; specify if important):     9, 14 inches

special features (might be present, some units): retractable tracks, roll cage

* when measuring for clearances such as width, height, etc, ensure to take into account uneven/sloping ground, protrusions (pipes), sharp corners to turn, etc.

other views same unit / similar models in this class:

When you order this machine without any additional attachments, what does it come with, standard?

Our mini-excavators always come with a standard trenching bucket, the best size to suit the machine for maximum efficiency.  Additionally, some machines may travel with additional bucket sizes as well; but don't count on this - if you require a particular bucket size (ie narrower) specify that at the time of ordering, with dispatch.

Any additional attachments you want must be specifically ordered when you book your machine.  Rental charges will apply.

Comment regarding the most useful application of this machine category:

An Ultra-mini sized mini-excavator is pretty small.  Yet, once you see it working, you'll be quite surprised.  It really works.  And it will always outwork a man, regardless of soil conditions.  If the ground is hard, it may do the work of 3, 4 or 5 men in the same amount of time.  So it is definitely a time-saver, a cost-saver.  It is a full ride-on sit-down machine (not a little walk-behind toy), it has a diesel engine and high-ratio hydraulics, producing a lot of digging power, proportionate to its bucket size.  That said, by all means, if you have enough access and practical working space to allow a larger machine in, by all means, do so.  The rule of thumb being always to use the biggest machine you can (provided the space to work in is adequate).  Meanwhile, if all you have room for is this machine, then don't hesitate - it's a lot faster than digging by hand!

The fact that the tracks retract allow this unit into the tightest of spaces, even the narrowest closet door in a house is 28" wide, enough to get this machine through.  So any back yard gate will accommodate it.  Then you can use it for waterproofing, landscaping, digging trenches for retaining and garden walls, trenches for utilities and footings.  This class of machine has been used to dig countless basements for additions, basement walk-out stairwells, even in ground swimming pools!

Tip: If there is no other way to carry the excavated dirt out, then simply have the ultra mini-excavator dig as usual, but have the excavated dirt dropped into a wheelbarrow and run out to the front and into your bin, or whatever you are doing with it.