Recently, we encountered the challenge of identifying the specific model and key features of a mini excavator. Since mini excavators come in a wide range of models and configurations, correctly identifying the equipment is crucial for maintenance, parts procurement, and operation. There are a few simple methods to determine the exact details of the machine.
First, check the machine’s nameplate or markings for basic information. Most mini excavators will have their brand and model information displayed on the machine’s exterior or control panel. The nameplate typically lists the production year, model number, engine type, and other important technical specifications. This is the most direct way to identify the machine.
If the nameplate is missing or the information is incomplete, you can also identify the machine by examining its external features. Different brands and models of mini excavators often have unique design characteristics. For example, some brands may have distinctive boom designs, engine configurations, or hydraulic systems, and understanding these features can help narrow down the options.
Additionally, the machine’s operational capacity and load rating are important factors for identification. By observing the size, working range, and rated load of the equipment, you can further determine its model. For example, larger mini excavators typically have more powerful digging capabilities and higher operating ranges, while smaller models are more suited for tight spaces and lighter tasks.
If visual identification is not sufficient, consulting professional documents or contacting the equipment supplier is also an effective option. Equipment manuals, technical documents, and maintenance records often contain detailed information about the model and configuration. If you’re still unsure, you can directly contact the manufacturer or an authorized dealer, who can provide exact model details based on the machine’s serial number or other identifying features.
In conclusion, identifying a mini excavator's model and features requires considering several aspects, including nameplate information, external characteristics, and operational capacity. By following these methods, you can accurately identify the equipment and ensure smooth operation, maintenance, and parts acquisition moving forward.

Recently, we encountered the challenge of selecting the correct thumb bushing size for our mini excavator. The thumb attachment is an important tool for grabbing various objects, such as trees, rocks, and construction debris. Choosing the right bushing size is crucial to ensure the stability and functionality of the thumb.
First, selecting the appropriate bushing size requires it to properly fit the excavator's hydraulic system and the thumb attachment. A bushing that is too large may prevent the thumb from operating correctly, while a bushing that is too small might not handle the heavy load of tasks. To avoid these issues, it’s important to carefully measure the dimensions of the thumb and the attachment points and choose the bushing based on these measurements.
Typically, the selection of the bushing involves considering the hydraulic system's operating pressure and the thumb’s load capacity. If unsure about the appropriate bushing size, you can refer to the technical manual provided by the manufacturer or consult with a professional supplier. Many manufacturers offer recommended bushing sizes based on the equipment model to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Additionally, the material of the bushing is an important consideration. High-quality bushings are usually made from wear-resistant alloy materials, which help maintain stability over extended use and reduce wear. Choosing the right material contributes to the thumb's durability, reduces maintenance costs, and extends the overall lifespan of the equipment.
When installing the bushing, ensure that it fits snugly into the attachment points of the thumb. Using the right lubricant can minimize friction, ensure smooth operation of the thumb, and prolong both the bushing and thumb's life. During installation, it is also crucial to inspect the hydraulic system for any leaks or pressure issues.
In conclusion, choosing the correct thumb bushing size plays a significant role in improving work efficiency and prolonging the equipment's lifespan. By carefully measuring, selecting the right material, and following manufacturer recommendations, you can ensure that the thumb operates smoothly under various working conditions and enhance overall work performance.

Recently, we’ve been looking for ideas on how to install and use a rake attachment on a mini excavator. A rake is a very useful attachment for clearing land, leveling soil, and removing debris or vegetation. Choosing and configuring the right rake can significantly improve work efficiency, especially in tight spaces or on complex terrain.
When selecting a rake, there are a few key factors to consider. First, the size and weight of the rake need to be compatible with the mini excavator's capabilities. A rake that's too large could overload the machine, affecting stability and maneuverability, while a smaller rake might not be able to handle the job effectively. Therefore, choosing the right size rake is crucial.
Next, the rake design type is an important consideration. Common rake designs include flat rakes, rotary rakes, and fixed-tooth rakes. Each design is suited for different types of tasks. Flat rakes are ideal for broad leveling jobs, rotary rakes are great for clearing vegetation and debris, and fixed-tooth rakes are better for loosening soil and deep clearing. Selecting the right rake design based on the task at hand can greatly increase efficiency.
Additionally, ease of installation and removal is another factor to consider. The ideal rake should be able to connect and detach quickly from the mini excavator, reducing downtime. Some rakes are designed to be directly compatible with the excavator's hydraulic system, simplifying the process and improving work continuity.
Finally, durability and maintenance are crucial when choosing a rake. High-quality rakes are often made from wear-resistant steel or other durable materials, which can withstand extended use without significant wear or damage. Regular inspection and maintenance will also extend the rake's lifespan, ensuring consistent performance during work.
In summary, using a rake attachment on a mini excavator is an effective solution to improve land grading and clearing efficiency. By selecting the right rake type, size, and design, combined with high-quality materials and an easy installation system, work efficiency can be greatly enhanced, ensuring smooth project completion.

Recently, we needed to adjust the thumb pressure on our Bobcat mini excavator to improve its grabbing capabilities and work efficiency. The thumb attachment is commonly used to grab irregular objects, such as trees, rocks, or construction debris. Proper pressure adjustment is crucial to ensure the thumb operates effectively and securely.
First, check that the thumb attachment is correctly installed and connected to the excavator’s hydraulic system. If the connection is loose, it can affect pressure and operational performance. Therefore, ensure all connections are tight and there are no hydraulic leaks.
Next, adjust the pressure settings in the hydraulic system. Most Bobcat mini excavators are equipped with a pressure adjustment valve that can be controlled from the operator’s cabin. Typically, this process involves adjusting the control valve’s pressure level to provide enough grabbing force while avoiding over-tightening, which could put excessive strain on the operator or damage the equipment.
During adjustment, it’s recommended to make small, incremental changes to the pressure and test the thumb’s grabbing ability. Check if the thumb can easily grasp the target object and maintain a firm hold without slipping. If the pressure is too low, the thumb may not grab the object securely. If the pressure is too high, it could cause the thumb to close too tightly or damage it.
In addition to adjusting the pressure, it’s important to regularly inspect the thumb’s friction surfaces and the hydraulic system’s condition. If the friction surfaces are excessively worn, the thumb’s efficiency and lifespan may be compromised. Similarly, check the quality and level of the hydraulic oil to ensure the system is running optimally.
In conclusion, adjusting the thumb pressure on a Bobcat mini excavator requires careful inspection and proper adjustment to ensure the equipment operates efficiently and safely. With the right pressure settings, the thumb’s grabbing ability can be significantly enhanced, boosting overall work efficiency.

Recently, we are planning to clear some pine trees and are considering using a mini excavator for the task. In choosing the right equipment and methods, we took into account several factors, including the size of the trees, the terrain, and the machine's capabilities. By sharing experiences with other owners and operators, we’ve gathered some useful tips.
First, a mini excavator is an ideal choice for clearing pine trees, especially in areas with narrow spaces or dense trees. Its compact design allows the mini excavator to maneuver through tight paths with minimal disturbance to the ground, while still maintaining high efficiency.
When selecting a mini excavator, it’s crucial to ensure it’s powerful enough to handle the tree trunks and roots. Depending on the size of the pine trees, smaller mini excavators may not be able to completely handle larger roots or tougher soil, so choosing the right model is important. Additionally, the excavator’s bucket and grapple attachments should be properly matched to ensure effective tree removal.
During operation, it’s recommended to start from the tree roots, loosening the soil and gradually clearing the area in stages. Maintaining balance and stability of the equipment throughout the operation is crucial to prevent tipping or damage. For larger trees, multiple operations or the use of additional tools might be necessary to effectively remove the roots.
Throughout the entire clearing process, the experience and skill of the operator play a key role, in addition to the excavator’s performance. Mastering proper techniques, such as using the excavator’s arm strength to tilt and pull the trees, can significantly improve efficiency and reduce clearing time.
In summary, a mini excavator is a great tool for clearing pine trees, especially in confined spaces or complicated terrain. By selecting the right equipment and employing proper techniques, tree clearing tasks can be completed efficiently and safely, saving both time and labor.

Recently, we equipped our excavators with brand-new bucket teeth to further improve work efficiency and the durability of the equipment. As project tasks become more diverse, selecting high-performance bucket teeth has become increasingly important, and the new teeth will make our work more efficient in handling complex tasks.
These new bucket teeth are made with advanced materials and design, providing higher wear resistance and increased penetration power for more challenging work environments. For instance, in rock-hard soil or other high-strength materials, the new bucket teeth offer enhanced cutting power, significantly boosting work efficiency.
Compared to traditional bucket teeth, the new ones are designed with better durability for long-term, high-intensity use. These teeth use a special alloy material that effectively prevents excessive wear and breakage, reducing downtime and maintenance costs. Additionally, the optimized tooth shape improves the ability to grip soil and materials, making every excavation more efficient.
The installation process has also been simplified, allowing operators to quickly replace the bucket teeth, reducing equipment downtime and improving on-site work continuity. The new teeth are highly compatible with our excavators, ensuring stability and safety during operation.
In terms of safety, the design of the new bucket teeth considers both operator and equipment protection. By minimizing unnecessary vibrations and increasing tooth stability, they significantly improve the safety of the work environment and reduce the risk of accidents due to tooth damage or breakage.
Overall, the introduction of the new excavator bucket teeth will greatly enhance our operational efficiency and equipment durability. With their outstanding design and high performance, these teeth will help us complete construction tasks more efficiently and safely.

Recently, we introduced the new CIMAF excavator crusher head, a high-performance tool designed to enhance operational efficiency and crushing capabilities. As project demands increase, having an efficient and reliable crusher head has become an essential part of our work.
The CIMAF crusher head is renowned for its durability and powerful crushing force, making it especially effective for handling hard rocks and concrete. It maintains stable performance under high pressure and heavy load conditions, significantly boosting productivity at construction sites. Whether for demolition tasks or rock crushing, this crusher head tackles the job with ease, allowing projects to progress more efficiently.
Unlike traditional crusher heads, the CIMAF model uses advanced technology to reduce maintenance costs and extend service life. Its efficient hydraulic system and powerful crushing force ensure each operation is completed swiftly, while minimizing wear and tear on the equipment and lowering maintenance frequency.
On the operational side, this crusher head is designed for ease of use. It features a straightforward control system, allowing operators to manage the crushing process with precision, reducing human error and improving work efficiency. Additionally, the noise and vibration levels during operation are effectively controlled, enhancing both operator comfort and safety.
In terms of safety, the CIMAF crusher head is equipped with several advanced protective features, effectively preventing overloads and damage to the equipment, ensuring a safe and smooth work environment. Its high reliability minimizes the risk of unexpected failures, providing strong support for project progress.
In summary, the addition of the CIMAF excavator crusher head will significantly enhance both the efficiency and safety of our operations. With its exceptional performance, low maintenance costs, and high reliability, it will become a key asset in our projects, helping us complete construction tasks more quickly and accurately.

Recently, we introduced a brand-new E37C excavator, equipped with the KLAC E-Quick Connect system, aimed at boosting efficiency and versatility on our job sites. The addition of this new equipment will provide increased flexibility, especially in scenarios where quick attachment changes and higher operational efficiency are crucial.
The E37C excavator is a high-performance compact machine designed for a wide range of construction tasks. Its powerful engine and compact design make it ideal for working in confined spaces, particularly on urban construction sites and in narrow working areas.
A standout feature of the E37C is the KLAC E-Quick Connect system. This system allows operators to quickly and easily swap attachments without leaving the cabin, greatly improving work efficiency. Traditional attachment changes often require significant time and manual intervention, but the KLAC E-Quick Connect system simplifies this process, making the machine more efficient and user-friendly.
Additionally, the hydraulic system of the E37C has been significantly improved to enhance job precision and responsiveness, allowing the machine to quickly adapt to various tasks. The machine's stability and powerful output enable it to handle heavy-duty tasks with ease while maintaining high durability for long-term use.
For operators, the E37C’s cabin is another highlight. The cabin is spacious and comfortable, equipped with modern controls that make operation intuitive. Moreover, the advanced suspension system effectively reduces vibration and noise, improving operator comfort and safety, especially during long working hours.
Overall, the combination of the E37C excavator and the KLAC E-Quick Connect system enhances the machine's versatility and flexibility while optimizing safety and ease of use. This addition will be an essential part of our projects, helping to complete complex tasks efficiently.

On July 24, 2014, our editorial team visited the East Ba construction equipment market in Beijing to conduct user interviews. The weather was favorable, but many pieces of equipment were still parked along the roadsides, including small to medium-sized excavators, wheeled excavators, loaders, cranes, and other construction vehicles. During the visit, we had the opportunity to interview a local excavator owner, Mr. Jing, whose insights on the market and his Hyundai R60-7 excavator were invaluable.
Changing Market Conditions
Mr. Jing shared that the excavator market has seen a steady decline in recent years. From 2008 to 2012, the market was booming, but starting in 2013, things began to slow down. At his peak, Mr. Jing owned up to four machines, but due to the market downturn, he has gradually sold off some of his equipment. Currently, he only operates a Hitachi 50 mini-excavator and a Sunward 18 micro-excavator.
Equipment and Work Practices
Mr. Jing started his career in automotive repair and eventually transitioned to excavator repairs. After gaining experience and understanding the excavator market, he decided to enter the business full-time. Over the years, he has purchased a variety of machines, including Hyundai, Zhenyang, and Sunward. In 2011, he purchased the Hyundai R60-7 mini-excavator, which has become his primary working machine.
Initially, Mr. Jing did not know how to operate an excavator, so he hired skilled operators. While he has since learned to drive the machines, he still prefers to have professional drivers operate the equipment while he focuses on finding work and managing his business.
Decision to Purchase the Hyundai R60-7
Before purchasing the Hyundai R60-7, Mr. Jing considered several brands, including Komatsu, Hitachi, and Hyundai. After conducting extensive research, including speaking with industry colleagues and evaluating fuel consumption and long-term maintenance costs, Mr. Jing decided that Hyundai offered the best balance of price and performance. The Hyundai R60-7 was competitively priced compared to other brands, and the model’s good reputation for reliability and fuel efficiency sealed the deal.
Equipment Performance and Usage
 - Work Conditions
Mr. Jing primarily uses his Hyundai R60-7 for urban side jobs, including tasks like urban landscaping, backfilling, and municipal projects. For these jobs, the mini-excavator is often required to break through concrete or asphalt surfaces, so he had the machine equipped with a breaker line and a hydraulic hammer. However, breaker work is not as frequent, and most of the time, the machine uses a bucket for earthwork.
 - Work Efficiency
Although Mr. Jing mentioned that the Hyundai R60-7 is somewhat slower than comparable models from Komatsu and Hitachi—especially in terms of swing speed and boom lifting speed—he noted that this doesn’t present a significant issue during regular work. The machine performs well on its own, and while it might be slightly slower in comparison, it still handles tasks like breaking concrete effectively. The slower speed is especially noticeable when the Hyundai works alongside other machines, but it doesn't pose a major problem when the excavator operates solo.
 - Fuel Consumption
As a machine primarily used for short jobs, fuel consumption can vary, depending on the nature of the work. When completing lighter tasks, such as leveling city landscaping areas, fuel consumption is minimal. On days when the machine is required to perform more intensive work, like breaking through tough soil or asphalt, fuel consumption increases. On average, Mr. Jing spends around 200 RMB per day on diesel fuel when the machine operates for eight hours. This is considered quite efficient when compared to similar machines in its class.
 - Product Performance
At nearly 6,000 hours, Mr. Jing's Hyundai R60-7 has performed well with very few major issues. The main complaints involve the air conditioning and the skylight. The air conditioning system had problems early on, requiring the replacement of the compressor, and later, some oil pipes had to be changed. By the 3,000-hour mark, the air conditioning was malfunctioning again, so Mr. Jing decided to replace the compressor with a non-original part. Fortunately, this solution worked well.
The skylight, however, proved to be less than ideal in terms of sealing. It leaked during rain, which wasn’t a major issue given Beijing’s relatively dry climate. Nonetheless, it was an inconvenience that could be bothersome during heavy rainfall.
 - Engine and Hydraulic Systems
In terms of engine performance and the hydraulic system, Mr. Jing expressed satisfaction. The engine hasn’t shown signs of burning oil or leaking fluids, and the machine’s hydraulic power remains strong, similar to when the machine was new. The hydraulic oil was changed once, but the main pumps, control valves, travel motors, and swing motors have all operated smoothly without requiring significant repairs.
Dealer and After-Sales Service
Mr. Jing purchased his Hyundai R60-7 through Beijing Rui Zhidao Machinery Equipment Co., Ltd., a Hyundai dealer in Beijing. The dealership provides after-sales service for the first 2,000 hours or one year. During the warranty period, the company proactively performs maintenance services. They contact Mr. Jing in advance to schedule service visits, ensuring that the machine is kept in good working condition.
After the warranty period, Mr. Jing opted to perform the maintenance himself, following the recommended maintenance intervals in the service manual. He buys original oils and hydraulic fluids, but for filters (such as air, oil, and fuel filters), he purchases aftermarket parts, which saves him a considerable amount of money.
Overall Evaluation and Future Plans
In conclusion, Mr. Jing expressed high satisfaction with his Hyundai R60-7 mini-excavator. He believes it is a reliable, cost-effective machine that offers good value for the money, especially considering its performance over 6,000 hours of operation. When asked about future purchases, Mr. Jing mentioned that, due to the current market downturn, he does not plan to purchase any new equipment in the near future. However, if the market improves, he would consider buying another Hyundai excavator.
Through this interview, we gained valuable insights into Mr. Jing’s experience with his Hyundai R60-7, as well as his views on the excavator market and the challenges faced by small business owners in the construction equipment industry.

In July 2014, our editorial team visited the Dongba market in Beijing, a hub for construction equipment, to better understand the needs of excavator owners and their equipment usage. With the help of a friendly local operator, we quickly familiarized ourselves with the area and began our interviews.
The Excavator Market at Dongba
As we arrived at the market, we were greeted by a wide array of machinery, including both small and large crawler excavators, wheeled excavators (also known as rubber-tired excavators), backhoes, rollers, cranes, dump trucks, and other construction equipment parked along the roadsides. According to Mr. Xu, a local excavator operator, the market has been slower than usual this year, with fewer jobs compared to last year. When the weather is good, many machines head out to work, but during rainy days, the parking lot fills up quickly with idle equipment.
In our tour, we observed the ecosystem of the market—many repair shops, parts stores, gas stations, and construction sites are nearby. Some operators were resting in their machines while waiting for work, while others were busy maintaining their equipment.
Meet Mr. Xu: A Seasoned Excavator Operator
Mr. Xu, a 40-year-old operator from Northeast China, has been in the business since 2005. Starting with a joint venture, he bought his first excavator—a 60-ton wheeled machine. As his business grew, he bought a Hyundai 60W-7, but due to increasing demands, he hired a driver. By 2010, business was booming, and he decided to purchase a small car and sell his wheeled excavator. In the following years, Mr. Xu acquired a Komatsu PC130-7 and later a new SANY 140-8. He also invested in a flatbed truck and now employs two drivers. With a steady workflow, he has more time to relax, play cards, and spend quality time with his family.
Equipment Information: Komatsu and SANY Excavators
Mr. Xu’s SANY 140, purchased in 2013 for around ¥700,000 (with financing), features a Mitsubishi high-pressure common-rail engine and a 0.57 m³ bucket. With about 2,000 hours of use, the machine has required minimal maintenance. Mr. Xu appreciates the machine’s fuel efficiency and fast working speed. He values the support he receives from the dealership, even though a few minor issues were never addressed during the initial purchase due to a lack of a formal contract. This experience taught him the importance of having all terms in writing when buying equipment.
As for the Komatsu PC130-7, which he bought second-hand, Mr. Xu was satisfied with its performance. Powered by a direct-injection engine and manufactured in Jining, Shandong, the PC130-7 is known for its reliable hydraulic system and engine, both of which are imported. Fuel consumption is similar to the SANY 140, averaging ¥60–70 per hour. Mr. Xu was keen to show us the machine, which was working on a project at the time.
Business Operations
Mr. Xu’s machines mostly work on scattered jobs, with some larger projects mixed in. He charges by the "shift," with a typical 8-hour shift costing ¥1,500. Even for shorter jobs, he charges for a full shift. On average, he completes around 20 shifts per month, with no additional fees for transporting machines since most of his clients were former owners of wheeled excavators.
While Mr. Xu occasionally handles demolition jobs, his machines are not equipped with breakers, which are instead handled by friends in the industry. The market this year has been slower, with the busy seasons running from March to May and from September to November.
Machine Maintenance and Strategy
Having been in the business for nearly a decade, Mr. Xu knows how to maintain his equipment well. He emphasizes the importance of regular maintenance, especially with the high-quality Mobil engine oil he uses. While he typically uses aftermarket parts for repairs, he prefers original parts for critical components like air filters. He mentioned that genuine parts, although expensive, offer superior quality—he recalled how the original filter’s seams were perfectly sealed.
At the June 19th auction in Beijing, Mr. Xu attended as part of the Iron Baby buyer group and considered buying a smaller excavator for future needs. He believes that as large-scale construction projects wind down, the demand for smaller excavators will grow, along with the promotion of various attachments.
The Workforce
Mr. Xu currently employs two drivers, both in their early 20s. One has been with him for five years, and the other has three years of experience. Despite the relatively low wages of ¥4,500 per month (with lodging provided), Mr. Xu values his drivers' responsibility and loyalty. He gives them an annual bonus of ¥2,000–3,000 and takes on the responsibility of transporting machines between sites himself, showing that mutual understanding is key to their relationship.
Conclusion
Mr. Xu’s journey in the excavator business has not been without challenges, especially with market fluctuations and a lack of formal contracts in the past. However, he remains optimistic about the future. He is confident that with careful management and the right equipment, his business will continue to thrive. Mr. Xu’s story is an excellent reminder for equipment owners to stay proactive, maintain good relationships with their workers, and ensure that all agreements are clearly documented.
We sincerely thank Mr. Xu for sharing his valuable insights and wish him continued success in his business. As for future excavator owners, this visit has been insightful, and we look forward to learning more from other machine owners to better understand their needs and experiences in the field.