In this interview, we have the pleasure of speaking with "Excavator Man" Lao Tao. Lao Tao started his journey in the excavator business in 2005, beginning with a Shandong Huaxin agricultural wheeled excavator. Over the years, he has upgraded his equipment to include a SANY SY65C and a Caterpillar 305CR excavator. Lao Tao is also the village accountant and secretary, and after a busy day, he enjoys sharing his experiences on the forum. Today, we'll focus on his insights into the SANY SY65C mini excavator, which he frequently shares with fellow forum members.

Purchase Information

Lao Tao purchased his SANY SY65C excavator on November 19, 2008, from SANY Heavy Machinery's Anhui dealer, Hefei Xiangyuan Company. The total price was 370,000 CNY, and Lao Tao opted for a financing plan with a down payment of 109,000 CNY and a three-year repayment period. The package included 5,000 CNY worth of accessories. When choosing among various brands, including Komatsu PC60, Hitachi ZX60, Kubota KX161, and SANY SY65C, Lao Tao decided on the SANY model after test driving and observing the performance of SY65C in his local area. He was particularly impressed with the speed, fuel efficiency, and the reputation of the Hefei Xiangyuan dealership.

Working Conditions

Unlike some of the users from Beijing we’ve previously interviewed, Lao Tao’s excavator is mainly used in his hometown for projects like rural house foundation excavation, irrigation and water conservancy projects, and municipal construction. These tasks demand versatility, as the excavator needs to adapt to both heavy-duty and more intricate work.

Work Efficiency

The SANY SY65C has proven to be exceptionally efficient in daily tasks, such as grading, trenching, and loading. Lao Tao proudly notes that the machine works just as fast as many imported mini excavators, which has helped him accumulate a loyal customer base in his area.
Machine Performance & Issues
While the SY65C has generally performed well, Lao Tao mentioned a few minor issues that have been addressed over time:

• At 2,200 hours, one of the idler wheels was damaged. However, due to the busy workload, it wasn't immediately replaced, and it didn’t significantly affect machine performance, except for a louder noise when moving.
  
• The display screen was replaced for free by the dealer, likely due to a design issue.
  
• The fuel tank oil level sensor was replaced for free.
  
• The travel motor was also replaced at no charge.
  

The Caterpillar CAT 320C is a versatile medium-sized crawler excavator widely used in earthmoving, construction, mining, and roadwork projects. With its powerful engine system and optimized hydraulic technology, the 320C delivers outstanding work efficiency and fuel economy. The design focuses on enhancing operator comfort and work stability, ensuring high productivity while reducing operational costs. Whether for heavy-duty tasks or working in complex conditions, the CAT 320C reliably performs in various challenging environments.
Key Specifications

• Engine Model: C6.6 ACERT
  
• Engine Power: 123 kW (165 hp)
  
• Operating Weight: 20,500 kg
  
• Boom Length: 3,250 mm
  
• Bucket Capacity: 0.9 m³
  
• Max Digging Depth: 6,540 mm
  
• Max Reach: 9,450 mm
  
• Max Dump Height: 6,700 mm
  
• Track Width: 600 mm
  
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 330 L
  
• Hydraulic Tank Capacity: 240 L
  
• Max Drawbar Pull: 205 kN
  
• Max Lifting Force: 17.2 kN
  

• Powerful Engine System: The CAT 320C is powered by the C6.6 ACERT engine, which provides excellent power output and fuel efficiency, making it suitable for high-load applications while ensuring stability and efficiency during long hours of operation.
  
• Optimized Hydraulic System: The excavator features advanced hydraulic technology, providing rapid operational response and high efficiency for tasks like digging, loading, and handling, while minimizing fuel consumption.
  
• Comfortable Operator Environment: The 320C's cabin is designed with spaciousness and comfort in mind, featuring air conditioning, adjustable seats, and hydraulic joysticks, ensuring comfort during extended work hours.
  
• Exceptional Stability: The reinforced undercarriage and heavy-duty track system ensure the 320C remains stable, even in complex terrains, providing excellent precision and efficiency during operations.
  
• Environmental Performance: The 320C complies with the latest emission standards, utilizing eco-friendly technologies to reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency, supporting sustainable operations.
  

The Doosan DH150LC-7 is a high-performance medium-sized crawler excavator designed to handle a variety of demanding tasks, including earthmoving, construction, and mining operations. Equipped with advanced engine and hydraulic systems, the DH150LC-7 offers powerful performance while maintaining excellent fuel efficiency, making it ideal for long-duration, high-intensity work. With superior stability, operator comfort, and environmental performance, it is an ideal machine for large-scale and complex projects.
Key Specifications

• Engine Model: Cummins QSB6.7
  
• Engine Power: 129 kW (173 hp)
  
• Operating Weight: 15,300 kg
  
• Boom Length: 2,750 mm
  
• Bucket Capacity: 0.8 m³
  
• Max Digging Depth: 6,260 mm
  
• Max Reach: 9,480 mm
  
• Max Dump Height: 6,530 mm
  
• Track Width: 600 mm
  
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 300 L
  
• Hydraulic Tank Capacity: 180 L
  
• Max Drawbar Pull: 157 kN
  
• Max Lifting Force: 13.6 kN
  

• Efficient Power System: The DH150LC-7 is powered by the Cummins QSB6.7 engine, delivering reliable power output and excellent fuel efficiency, making it suitable for various high-load working environments while maintaining high efficiency over long periods.
  
• Optimized Hydraulic System: Equipped with advanced hydraulic technology, the DH150LC-7 provides fast response times and high efficiency, making it ideal for precision earthworks and demanding tasks that require high productivity.
  
• Operator Comfort: The spacious cabin is equipped with air conditioning, adjustable seats, and hydraulic joysticks, ensuring a comfortable working environment and reducing operator fatigue during long working hours.
  
• Superior Stability: The reinforced undercarriage and high-strength tracks provide excellent stability, ensuring accurate performance even in harsh working conditions and complex terrains.
  
• Environmental Performance: The DH150LC-7 complies with international emission standards and uses eco-friendly technologies to reduce emissions, improve fuel economy, and support green operations.
  

The Caterpillar Cat 320D2 is a powerful and versatile medium-sized crawler excavator, widely used in earthmoving, mining, construction, and roadwork projects. With its efficient power system, optimized hydraulic technology, and excellent fuel economy, the 320D2 offers high productivity while reducing operating costs. Its comfortable operator environment and superior stability ensure that operators can efficiently and safely complete heavy-duty tasks. Whether working in complex terrains or harsh conditions, the Cat 320D2 delivers outstanding performance.
Key Specifications

• Engine Model: C6.4 ACERT
  
• Engine Power: 129 kW (173 hp)
  
• Operating Weight: 22,300 kg
  
• Boom Length: 3,500 mm
  
• Bucket Capacity: 1.0 m³
  
• Max Digging Depth: 6,610 mm
  
• Max Reach: 9,680 mm
  
• Max Dump Height: 6,830 mm
  
• Track Width: 600 mm
  
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 400 L
  
• Hydraulic Tank Capacity: 280 L
  
• Max Drawbar Pull: 224 kN
  
• Max Lifting Force: 18.0 kN
  

• Efficient Power System: The Cat 320D2 is powered by the C6.4 ACERT engine, delivering powerful performance while optimizing fuel efficiency, making it suitable for various high-load conditions and ensuring long-term stability in operation.
  
• Advanced Hydraulic System: Equipped with Caterpillar's advanced hydraulic technology, the 320D2 offers enhanced operational response and digging efficiency, reducing cycle times and fuel consumption while improving productivity.
  
• Operator Comfort: The spacious cabin is designed to provide excellent visibility and comfort, featuring air conditioning, an adjustable seat, and hydraulic joysticks. This ensures that operators remain comfortable during long hours of operation.
  
• Superior Stability: With its reinforced undercarriage and robust track system, the 320D2 maintains excellent stability, even in complex terrains, ensuring precise operations and enhanced safety during work.
  
• Environmental Performance: The 320D2 complies with the latest emission standards and utilizes Caterpillar's eco-friendly technology to reduce emissions, enhancing fuel efficiency and supporting environmentally sustainable operations.
  

The Doosan DH220LC-7 is a high-performance medium-sized crawler excavator, widely used in construction, mining, demolition, and earthmoving projects. Equipped with an advanced engine and hydraulic system, the DH220LC-7 delivers exceptional performance across various working conditions. Its design optimizes both power and fuel efficiency while minimizing emissions to meet global environmental standards. With its superior stability and comfortable working environment, the DH220LC-7 is the ideal choice for heavy-duty and long-duration tasks.
Key Specifications

• Engine Model: Cummins QSB6.7
  
• Engine Power: 129 kW (173 hp)
  
• Operating Weight: 22,000 kg
  
• Boom Length: 3,290 mm
  
• Bucket Capacity: 0.9 m³
  
• Max Digging Depth: 6,660 mm
  
• Max Reach: 9,750 mm
  
• Max Dump Height: 6,630 mm
  
• Track Width: 600 mm
  
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 340 L
  
• Hydraulic Tank Capacity: 225 L
  
• Max Drawbar Pull: 212 kN
  
• Max Lifting Force: 18.0 kN
  

• Efficient Power System: The DH220LC-7 is powered by the Cummins QSB6.7 engine, providing strong power output and excellent fuel efficiency, ensuring stable performance under heavy-load conditions.
  
• Optimized Hydraulic System: Equipped with an advanced hydraulic system, it delivers rapid operational responses, making it highly efficient for excavation, loading, and material handling tasks, while reducing energy consumption.
  
• Operator Comfort: The spacious cabin features air conditioning, adjustable seats, and hydraulic joysticks, enhancing operator comfort and reducing fatigue during long working hours.
  
• Superior Stability: The reinforced undercarriage and high-strength tracks provide excellent stability, ensuring precise operation even in complex terrains and harsh working conditions.
  
• Environmental Performance: The DH220LC-7 meets global emission standards, utilizing eco-friendly technologies to reduce environmental impact and support sustainable operations.
  

The Kobelco SK210 is a high-performance medium-sized crawler excavator widely used in construction, mining, roadwork, and demolition projects. Equipped with an excellent power system, advanced hydraulic technology, and outstanding fuel economy, the SK210 provides reliable performance and high efficiency in various complex working environments. This model focuses on operator comfort, stability, and environmental considerations, making it an ideal choice for large-scale projects.
Key Specifications

• Engine Model: ISUZU 4HK1X
  
• Engine Power: 119 kW (160 hp)
  
• Operating Weight: 21,600 kg
  
• Boom Length: 3,470 mm
  
• Bucket Capacity: 1.0 m³
  
• Max Digging Depth: 6,700 mm
  
• Max Reach: 9,800 mm
  
• Max Dump Height: 6,760 mm
  
• Track Width: 600 mm
  
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 350 L
  
• Hydraulic Tank Capacity: 240 L
  
• Max Drawbar Pull: 216 kN
  
• Max Lifting Force: 17.5 kN
  

• Efficient Power System: The Kobelco SK210 is powered by the ISUZU 4HK1X engine, delivering strong power output and excellent fuel efficiency, ensuring stable performance in high-load conditions.
  
• Advanced Hydraulic System: The SK210 is equipped with an optimized hydraulic system, allowing it to complete large-scale earthworks and loading tasks quickly while maintaining low energy consumption and high work efficiency.
  
• Operator Comfort: The cabin is spacious and equipped with air conditioning, an adjustable seat, and joysticks, ensuring comfort and precise control during long hours of operation.
  
• Superior Stability: The reinforced undercarriage and high-strength tracks provide superior stability, ensuring safe and efficient operation even in challenging terrains and harsh working conditions.
  
• Environmental Performance: The SK210 meets international emission standards, using eco-friendly technologies to reduce emissions and minimize environmental impact, supporting sustainable operations.
  

The Kobelco SK210LC is a high-performance medium-sized crawler excavator, widely used in construction, mining, roadworks, and demolition projects. With its powerful engine, superior hydraulic performance, and excellent fuel efficiency, the SK210LC provides stable and reliable performance in a variety of complex working environments. The design is focused on improving operational efficiency, ensuring operator comfort, and maintaining safety, making it a highly reliable machine for various industries.
Key Specifications

• Engine Model: ISUZU 4HK1X
  
• Engine Power: 119 kW (160 hp)
  
• Operating Weight: 21,600 kg
  
• Boom Length: 3,470 mm
  
• Bucket Capacity: 1.0 m³
  
• Max Digging Depth: 6,700 mm
  
• Max Reach: 9,800 mm
  
• Max Dump Height: 6,760 mm
  
• Track Width: 600 mm
  
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 350 L
  
• Hydraulic Tank Capacity: 240 L
  
• Max Drawbar Pull: 216 kN
  
• Max Lifting Force: 17.5 kN
  

• Powerful Engine: The Kobelco SK210LC is equipped with the ISUZU 4HK1X engine, delivering excellent power output and fuel efficiency. It is designed to handle high-load conditions while ensuring stable performance.
  
• Efficient Hydraulic System: The excavator features an advanced hydraulic system that allows for rapid response and increased operational efficiency, making quick work of excavation and loading tasks.
  
• Operator Comfort: The spacious cabin is designed with ergonomic seats and hydraulic joysticks, reducing operator fatigue and enhancing comfort, even during long hours of operation.
  
• Exceptional Stability: The reinforced undercarriage and high-strength tracks provide superior stability, ensuring precise operations even on challenging terrains and in harsh working conditions.
  
• Environmental Performance: The SK210LC meets international emission standards, using advanced engine and eco-friendly technologies to reduce emissions and support green operations.
  

The Komatsu PC220 is a powerful and versatile medium-sized crawler excavator, widely used in construction, mining, demolition, road construction, and other industries. Equipped with an efficient engine and hydraulic system, the PC220 delivers robust performance under various working conditions. It offers excellent stability, fuel economy, and operator comfort, making it an ideal choice for large-scale earthworks and heavy-duty tasks.
Key Specifications

• Engine Model: SAA6D107E-1
  
• Engine Power: 129 kW (173 hp)
  
• Operating Weight: 22,400 kg
  
• Boom Length: 3,440 mm
  
• Bucket Capacity: 1.0 m³
  
• Max Digging Depth: 7,100 mm
  
• Max Reach: 10,210 mm
  
• Max Dump Height: 7,010 mm
  
• Track Width: 600 mm
  
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 360 L
  
• Hydraulic Tank Capacity: 230 L
  
• Max Drawbar Pull: 198 kN
  
• Max Lifting Force: 18.0 kN
  

• Efficient Power System: The PC220 is powered by the highly efficient SAA6D107E-1 engine, providing exceptional power output and fuel efficiency, ensuring stable performance even under heavy load conditions.
  
• High-Quality Hydraulic System: The advanced hydraulic technology in the PC220 allows for fast and efficient completion of large-scale earthworks, excavation, and loading tasks, while minimizing energy consumption and improving work efficiency.
  
• Operator Comfort: The spacious cabin is equipped with air conditioning, an adjustable seat, and hydraulic joysticks, ensuring a comfortable and precise working environment for operators, even during long working hours.
  
• Superior Stability: With its reinforced undercarriage and high-strength tracks, the PC220 provides exceptional stability, ensuring precise operation even in challenging terrains and harsh working conditions.
  
• Environmental Performance: The PC220 meets international emission standards, using advanced engine and environmental technologies to reduce emissions, supporting eco-friendly operations.
  

The SANY SY215C-9 is a medium-sized crawler excavator that integrates advanced technology and high-performance design, widely used in construction, mining, road construction, demolition, and other industries. With its powerful engine system, optimized hydraulic performance, and excellent fuel economy, the SY215C-9 offers stable and efficient operational capabilities. Its versatility and operator comfort make it an ideal choice for heavy-duty tasks, capable of handling a variety of complex working conditions.
Key Specifications

• Engine Model: Isuzu 4JJ1X
  
• Engine Power: 129 kW (173 hp)
  
• Operating Weight: 21,800 kg
  
• Boom Length: 3,360 mm
  
• Bucket Capacity: 1.0 m³
  
• Max Digging Depth: 6,410 mm
  
• Max Reach: 9,710 mm
  
• Max Dump Height: 6,800 mm
  
• Track Width: 600 mm
  
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 320 L
  
• Hydraulic Tank Capacity: 200 L
  
• Max Drawbar Pull: 183 kN
  
• Max Lifting Force: 16.0 kN
  

• Powerful Engine System: The SY215C-9 is equipped with an efficient Isuzu 4JJ1X engine, providing robust power output and excellent fuel efficiency, ensuring stable performance even under heavy load operations.
  
• Efficient Hydraulic System: The optimized hydraulic system enhances operational efficiency, allowing quick execution of tasks such as excavation, loading, and earthworks while reducing energy consumption.
  
• Operator Comfort: The spacious cab is equipped with air conditioning, an adjustable seat, and adjustable control levers, ensuring operator comfort during long working hours.
  
• Superior Stability: The reinforced undercarriage design enhances the overall stability of the machine, making it suitable for various complex terrains and harsh working environments, ensuring safe and precise operations.
  
• Environmental Performance: The SY215C-9 meets the latest global emission standards, using eco-friendly technology to reduce emissions, supporting green operations.
  

The Komatsu PC200 excavator is a highly efficient, medium-sized crawler excavator widely used in construction, mining, demolition, and roadworks. With its powerful engine, reliable hydraulic system, and superior fuel economy, the PC200 performs steadily in various complex working environments and can efficiently complete a variety of digging tasks. Whether for large-scale earthworks or precision operations, this excavator provides robust support.
Key Specifications

• Engine Model: SAA6D107E-1
  
• Engine Power: 115 kW (154 hp)
  
• Operating Weight: 20,600 kg
  
• Boom Length: 3,220 mm
  
• Bucket Capacity: 0.8 m³
  
• Max Digging Depth: 6,700 mm
  
• Max Reach: 9,680 mm
  
• Max Dump Height: 6,550 mm
  
• Track Width: 600 mm
  
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 330 L
  
• Hydraulic Tank Capacity: 190 L
  
• Max Drawbar Pull: 198 kN
  
• Max Lifting Force: 14.0 kN
  

• Powerful Engine: The Komatsu PC200 is equipped with the advanced SAA6D107E-1 engine, providing high output power and excellent fuel efficiency, delivering sustained power even under heavy load conditions.
  
• Efficient Hydraulic System: The PC200 features Komatsu’s innovative hydraulic system, which enables quick completion of large-scale excavation tasks while maintaining low energy consumption, improving overall work efficiency.
  
• Comfortable Operator Environment: The spacious cabin is equipped with an air-conditioning system and hydraulic joysticks, ensuring operator comfort during long working hours.
  
• Superior Stability: With a reinforced undercarriage design and high-strength tracks, the PC200 maintains excellent stability in challenging terrains and harsh working conditions, ensuring safe operations.
  
• Environmental Performance: The PC200 meets international emission standards, using advanced engine technology to reduce pollutant emissions and support eco-friendly operations.