A user recently reached out seeking recommendations for purchasing a cleanup/grading bucket for their 26G excavator equipped with a TAG coupler. The query was directed towards finding a reliable local supplier in the greater Seattle area.
One suggestion was Kitsap Tractor Sales. Although the user had not personally visited the store, they shared that their Yanmar ViO 27-2 came with a sticker from this business on the boom. Kitsap Tractor Sales appears to be a reputable name for purchasing equipment or parts, based on this recommendation.
However, there was some confusion around the term TAG coupler. One user commented that they were unfamiliar with the term. They explained that their Yanmar excavator uses a small hydraulic cylinder between the cross pins, which is controlled from the seat. This setup allows for quick bucket changes in seconds and has been in use since 2004, suggesting a more traditional hydraulic quick coupler system rather than a TAG-style coupler.
For those looking to purchase buckets, the greater Seattle area seems to have reliable suppliers like Kitsap Tractor Sales, but it’s always important to clarify the specific coupler type to ensure compatibility with the equipment.

Old Tao, an experienced excavator operator, entered the excavator industry in 2005. Starting with a Shandong Huaxin agricultural wheeled excavator, he later purchased several machines, including the SANY SY65C and Caterpillar 305CR excavators. In addition to operating the machines, Old Tao also serves as the accountant and secretary for his village. After a busy day, he often shares his experiences and insights on forums with other excavator enthusiasts. Today, we’ll take a closer look at his experience with the SANY SY65C compact excavator.
Purchase Information
Old Tao purchased his SANY SY65C excavator on November 19, 2008, from the Anhui SANY dealer, Hefei Xiangyuan Company. The total price was 370,000 RMB, with a down payment of 109,000 RMB, financed over three years. At the time, he considered several other models, including the Komatsu PC60, Hitachi ZX60, and Kubota KX161, but ultimately chose the SANY SY65C. According to Old Tao, the key reasons for his decision were the excavator's speed, fuel efficiency, and the good reputation of SANY’s Anhui dealership.
Work Conditions
Unlike the Beijing-based users we've previously interviewed, Old Tao primarily works in his hometown area, handling tasks such as rural housing foundation digging, agricultural water conservancy projects, and municipal construction. The work conditions are more rural, with a variety of local construction projects.
Work Efficiency
The SANY SY65C performs excellently in daily tasks, including leveling, trenching, and loading. Its speed and performance are on par with imported compact excavators, which has helped Old Tao accumulate a solid customer base in his local area. He takes pride in the machine's efficiency, which helps him secure more jobs.
Machine Performance and Issues
Old Tao reports that the engine and hydraulic system of his SY65C have never experienced major issues. However, he did encounter a few minor problems during its operation:

1. At around 2,200 hours, the idler wheel broke. Due to the heavy workload, Old Tao didn’t replace it immediately, which led to louder noise during travel.
   
2. There was an issue with the display screen, which was replaced for free by the dealer.
   
3. The fuel tank’s oil level sensor malfunctioned and was also replaced free of charge.
   
4. The travel motor was replaced for free.
   

The user, Mr. Liang, is from Jixian, Tianjin, and entered the excavator industry in 2002. Initially, he worked with a tractor-converted agricultural excavator. "It broke down frequently, but over time, I became familiar with the machine's workings, which laid the foundation for my future experience in excavator operation and management," says Mr. Liang. Over the years, his family ventured into the excavator rental business, and by 2004, they had purchased multiple units, including one Kubota, one Komatsu, and 17 Case excavators, making them a major user of excavators in the region.
Purchase Experience
In 2004, after earning his first profits from the agricultural excavator, Mr. Liang partnered with relatives to buy a 5-ton foreign brand excavator. However, this machine experienced track issues, and when negotiating with the Beijing dealer, the experience was unsatisfactory. Dissatisfied with the dealer's customer service, Mr. Liang decided to purchase his second excavator from Case, focusing on the CX55B model, which was not yet common in the market. The machine’s imported status, excellent build quality, and the professional service from the Case Beijing dealer convinced him to make the purchase. Mr. Liang emphasizes that besides product quality, the dealer’s customer care and willingness to help customers with flexible policies played a crucial role in his decision.
Working Conditions
Mr. Liang’s excavators don’t typically handle large-scale projects, focusing instead on smaller, scattered jobs in industries like telecommunications, gas, water utilities, and municipal construction. The primary work involves trenching, leveling, and occasional breaking tasks. Since he didn’t purchase the optional breaker pipeline, the machine hasn’t been fitted with a breaker.
Work Efficiency
Mr. Liang is satisfied with the Case CX55B's work efficiency. He attributes this to three key features:

1. Zero Tail Swing
   The Case CX55B's zero-tail-swing feature proved invaluable in tight urban spaces. Many tasks in city areas require maneuverability, and while other machines with rear tails struggle, the CX55B performs well in confined spaces.
   
2. Rubber Tracks
   Mr. Liang chose rubber tracks for this model, which proved beneficial for working in residential areas. Steel tracks can create excessive noise and damage lawns or curbs, but the rubber tracks allow for quieter operations and protect the surfaces in sensitive environments.
   
3. Arm Offset
   The arm offset function of the Case CX55B is especially useful when working along walls, a common task in municipal and telecommunications projects. This feature significantly increased Mr. Liang’s job efficiency and made him more competitive when bidding for projects.
   

1. Air Conditioning Failure
   After approximately 1,000 hours of use, the air conditioning system stopped functioning correctly. The cooling effect was inadequate, which caused significant discomfort during work, especially in the summer. With the windows closed due to the dusty environment, the lack of air conditioning made the work environment unbearable, impacting both work efficiency and operator safety.
   
2. Bucket Issues
   Mr. Liang mentioned that the bucket, initially used without issue, developed cracks after only 200 hours of work. He suspects that the bucket may have been locally manufactured, which led to the premature damage. Eventually, he had to reinforce the bucket himself.
   

Mr. Wang, a user from Henan province who works in construction in Beijing, purchased the Yuchai YC60-8 excavator in 2010. As a regular member of the Yuchai machinery user community in Beijing, Mr. Wang has shared his experience with the machine, focusing on its overall performance, fuel consumption, and issues faced during usage.
Basic Information
The Yuchai YC60-8 is one of the best-selling models from Yuchai Heavy Industry and an upgraded version of the widely-used YC60-7. The machine has received recognition in the industry, having applied for 12 patents and won the "Guangxi Science and Technology Progress Award" and the "Third Prize of the China Machinery Industry Science and Technology Award." In 2010, it was ranked first in sales for excavators of the same tonnage in the domestic market.
Specifications:

• Operating Weight: 5,800 kg
  
• Engine Model: Yuchai YC
  
• Power: 45 kW / 2,200 RPM
  
• Bucket Capacity: 0.22 m³
  
• Dozer Blade: Standard
  
• Breaker Line: Optional
  

1. Limited Cabin Space: The YC60-8 is considered to have a medium-sized body compared to other excavators in its class, but the cabin design feels cramped. This makes it uncomfortable for operators, especially during long hours of work.
   
2. Poor Sealing: The excavator’s poor sealing leads to dust and noise entering the cabin. After a day’s work, operators often end up covered in dust. Xiao Li suggested that the manufacturer could improve the sealing system to enhance the work efficiency and comfort of the operator.
   
3. Ineffective Air Conditioning: Since the purchase, the air conditioning system has not functioned correctly. It fails to provide adequate cooling, and due to poor sealing, the little cool air produced escapes from the cabin. As a result, Xiao Li had to buy an external fan as a substitute for the air conditioning system.
   

This article shares the experiences of a user who has worked with various excavators over the past 14 years, including models from Komatsu, Doosan, Daewoo, and others. The user provides insights into the strengths and weaknesses of different machines, based on real-world usage.
Komatsu PC200-3 Excavator
Purchase and Usage

• Purchase Time: Approximately 14 years ago, second-hand, purchased for 450,000 RMB with 3,000 operating hours.
  
• Issues Found: Initially, the machine appeared to be original, but over time, the user discovered that it had been refurbished. After five years, the fan belt was not replaced, which led to the belt breaking and causing the engine to overheat. After replacing the belt, the engine failed completely within a week.
  
• Solution: The user sought help from an expert who recommended replacing the engine with a customized Yuchai engine. The cost for the new engine and installation was only around 30,000 RMB, a significant saving compared to the 380,000 RMB quoted by the manufacturer for a new engine. After replacement, the machine ran like new.
  

• Reason for Purchase: After the engine replacement in the Komatsu PC200-3, the user was dissatisfied with the brand and decided to purchase a new machine. They initially considered buying a new Komatsu PC220, but due to the high price, they shifted focus to other brands. Daewoo offered a good value alternative, with the DH220LC-V priced at 670,000 RMB.
  
• Experience: The Daewoo DH220LC-V is currently at 16,000 hours of use, with a 10-year lifespan. The machine has not undergone major repairs, and 90% of the original paint remains intact. The user plans to replace the chain at 20,000 hours, as it is significantly worn. Despite the decrease in speed, the machine still operates well at 2,000 RPM under load.
  

• PC220-6: This model has been very reliable when well-maintained. At 15,000 hours, the machine’s hydraulic pump remained in excellent condition. However, there was an issue with the track system when used in a stone quarry, as the idler wheels needed replacing after 12,000 hours.
  
• PC220-7: This model has inherited most of the features of the PC220-6 but with a few minor issues. The main issue is the tendency for the boom and arm to crack, although this is not a serious problem.
  

• Power: The Komatsu PC240LC-8 features an electronically controlled engine, providing excellent power output. Among the 240-class excavators from various brands, the Komatsu model stands out for its power.
  
• Fuel Consumption: One downside is its high fuel consumption. Using the P mode with 100% throttle, fuel consumption can reach as high as 28.6 liters per hour, especially when working with difficult materials. To improve fuel efficiency, the E0-E3 modes can be used, with E0 being the closest to P mode and E3 being the slowest but most fuel-efficient.
  

• Fuel Consumption: Komatsu excavators, especially the PC-6, -7, and -8 series, tend to have higher fuel consumption compared to competitors. While the -8 series is equipped with an electronically controlled engine, it still consumes more fuel than earlier models.
  
• Hydraulic Cylinders: There is a tendency for hydraulic cylinders to burn out or get discolored over time, particularly in the -8 series. While this does not affect the machine's performance, it does impact the machine's appearance.
  
• High-Pressure Hose Issues: It is common for high-pressure hoses to fail after around 5,000 hours of use, requiring replacement.
  

• Komatsu PC240LC-8: This model offers great power and stability, but its high fuel consumption is a significant drawback. It remains an excellent all-around excavator for various tasks, but users should be mindful of the operating costs.
  
• Daewoo DH220LC-V: A reliable and cost-effective option, this excavator has performed well over 16,000 hours without major issues. The user recommends it as a strong contender for long-term use, especially when compared to more expensive models.
  
• Komatsu’s Overall Quality: While Komatsu excavators maintain a high level of performance and durability, users should be aware of the increased fuel consumption and hydraulic issues in certain models. Despite these drawbacks, Komatsu continues to be a leading brand in the excavator market.
  

I purchased the Longgong 855B loader in late November 2009, and after more than six months of use, I’ve accumulated just over 1000 operating hours. Below is a summary of my experience with this machine, including both its advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages

1. Sturdy and Durable Build
   As part of the Rock King series, this loader has a solid, heavy feel that instills confidence in its durability. It's designed to handle tough work environments effectively.
   
2. Minimal Rear Lifting During Digging
   The machine rarely exhibits rear lifting when scooping material, thanks to a well-designed counterweight in the rear that helps maintain balance during operations.
   
3. Excellent Visibility
   The loader is equipped with a panoramic glass cabin, which offers excellent visibility. This feature significantly improves the operator's awareness of their surroundings, contributing to better safety and control during work.
   

1. Poor Interior Quality and Sealing
   The interior finishes of the cabin are subpar, and the sealing performance is inadequate. After only a few dozen operating hours, screws on the dashboard loosened and could not be tightened again. Additionally, both doors do not close tightly, and there is a rattling sound when they are shut.
   
2. Poorly Designed Bucket Guard Plate
   The guard plate on the bucket is poorly designed. The cutting edge of the bucket is exposed by only about 10 centimeters, which affects the digging feel. After a few hours of use, I removed the guard plate and plan to weld a new one later.
   
3. Heavy Control Levers
   The control levers are a bit stiff, which can be tiring for the operator over long shifts. I’ve tested several Longgong loaders, and this seems to be a common issue across their models.
   
4. Difficult Engine Compartment Access
   The rear hood of the engine opens upward, making it inconvenient for routine maintenance and servicing. This design could have been more user-friendly.
   

I have used three Longgong LG850 loaders, with the following purchase timeline: the first in early 2007, the second in mid-2008, and the third in late 2009. All three machines weigh 15.8 tons, and while they all exhibit some common traits, such as occasional rear-end lifting when in use, the following report outlines my experience with this particular model, based on my usage of these three units.
1. Engine
The engines of the Longgong LG850 loaders are all from the Weichai series. The first two units use the WD615 engine, while the third one is equipped with the WD10 engine, meeting the Euro III emission standards. From the specifications, we can see that the WD10 engine has a smaller bore and stroke, but the power remains the same (162kw), and the fuel consumption per kilowatt hour is lower.

• The WD10 engine features an oil-water separator filter, and the fuel filter has been integrated into a complete assembly.
  
• The first vehicle uses a cable-operated shutdown switch, while the second and third units use an electromagnetic valve shutdown system, which unfortunately has a shorter lifespan.
  

• The first vehicle's double gearbox remains in good condition.
  
• The second vehicle needed a gearbox repair after 3,000 hours, primarily due to bearing failure in the torque converter. The bearings used in the system were from ZWZ.
  
• The third vehicle felt slightly slower to respond when shifting gears after the vehicle was new.
  

• The first vehicle has required repairs to the front axle numerous times. After the most recent repair, it was suspected that the axle housing bolts were not tightened correctly, causing oil leaks. The half-axle also broke once, and the braking system often leaks oil. The hydraulic pump was replaced, and the original Henan Fengshen tires, which were heavily worn, were replaced with remanufactured tires.
  
• The second vehicle had an issue with the planetary gears in the front axle, which repeatedly failed within a short period. The gears were damaged and got stuck inside, requiring the tires to be removed for repairs.
  

• The first vehicle has had an ongoing issue with the upper pin of the bucket constantly breaking.
  
• Despite these mechanical challenges, Longgong’s paintwork is notable. The older machines maintain a new appearance even after being washed.
  

I’ve been using the Doosan DH55 for about half a month now, and it has accumulated around 150 hours of work. Here’s a summary of my impressions and comparisons with the Komatsu PC55:
Engine Performance
The engine in the Doosan DH55 is noticeably louder than that of the Komatsu PC55. Even when I push the throttle to the maximum on the older Komatsu PC55 (which has been in use for 4 years), it doesn’t generate as much noise as the DH55.
Fuel Consumption
I find the fuel consumption of the Doosan DH55 to be higher compared to the Komatsu PC55.
Hydraulic System
Since the DH55 is still new, I haven’t had the chance to mount a hammer on it yet, so I can’t make a definitive judgment. However, during operation, when lifting the boom, it generates a relatively loud noise. In comparison, the Komatsu PC55 with a hammer installed operates without any unusual noise.
Fuel Tank Capacity
Both excavators have a fuel tank capacity of 64 liters, but the Doosan DH55 struggles to fill up even with 500 RMB worth of fuel, while the Komatsu PC55 reaches almost full with just 400 RMB worth of fuel.
Cabin and Build Quality
The Doosan DH55’s cabin has rougher build quality. On the first day of use, I scratched my hand on the sunroof, and later during work, I noticed more scratches on the interior. The overall craftsmanship feels unfinished.
On the other hand, the Komatsu PC55 has a more refined finish. However, the build quality of the door locks is questionable. In our area, there were once 12 Komatsu PC55 excavators, but now only four remain. One has the door removed, another has a self-made internal latch, and mine still has a working door lock, although I have to close it from the inside and climb out of the front window to lock it. I’ve had to repair the lock more than 20 times, but I’ve just been living with it. I’ll wait and see how the Doosan DH55 performs in this regard.
Undercarriage and Tracks
Komatsu's undercarriage has been troublesome. Between 3000 and 5000 hours, the tracks would frequently come off, often twice a day. After replacing the guide wheels and four support rollers, the problem was resolved.
The Doosan DH55, however, looks sturdier. The track plates are thicker, and it has protective guards. I expect fewer issues with the undercarriage in the future.
Bucket Durability
At 6000 hours, I had to replace the bucket on the Komatsu PC55 due to intermittent tearing at the front. In comparison, the Doosan DH55’s bucket feels very thin. After just 50 hours of use, I accidentally touched a steel rail, and the bucket hit a pit.
Speed
The Doosan DH55 is noticeably slower, especially in rotation speed. Everything else also feels slower compared to the Komatsu PC55. Even though my Komatsu is now a bit slower than before, I still feel it’s faster than the DH55. (After checking with after-sales, I found that the hydraulic system is working fine, but the flow rate is slightly lower. Any experts out there who can advise how to increase the flow rate without replacing the main pump?)
Lighting
The lighting design on the Doosan DH55 isn’t ideal. The headlights are located below the cabin, and after working a few nights, I found it a bit uncomfortable. I personally prefer the lighting setup on the Komatsu.
Power
In terms of power, I feel the Doosan DH55 is stronger, as it doesn’t tend to lift its tail as much. However, my father thinks the Komatsu PC55 has more power.
Size and Tail Swing
No surprises here—the Komatsu PC55 is better in this category, thanks to its zero-tail swing design. The Doosan DH55, however, is a bit larger, and during the first 100 hours of use, the tail got scraped. When we were short on drivers, I let a driver try it, but after that incident, I decided to operate it myself.
After-Sales Service
One of the standout aspects of Doosan is its after-sales service. It’s been excellent compared to Komatsu. Doosan provides attentive support and calls back after each inquiry. The staff is more customer-oriented and doesn’t have the attitude that some of Komatsu's after-sales personnel have. This level of service is much appreciated.

After the year 2000, a new piece of equipment started turning heads on the roads of Shenyang — the Case 580L backhoe loader (commonly referred to as a “two-in-one” machine). When people first saw it, the rate of turning heads was almost 100%. This caught the attention of the leadership at the Shenyang Water Supply Company (the predecessor of Shenyang Water Group). A year later, they made the decision to purchase one. By November 2001, the Case 580L was delivered. At that time, there were only three Case 580Ls in Shenyang—one owned by our company and two by the Shenyang Gas Company.
The arrival of the Case 580L marked the beginning of a new era for us. First, its speed of 40 kilometers per hour allowed us to quickly transfer between repair sites, significantly shortening the travel time. Secondly, the machine’s excavating and loading control levers are fewer than most other machines, making it easy to operate and further reducing the time needed for repairs. Lastly, the low failure rate meant that the Case 580L was able to maintain reliable performance, day after day.
Initially, some people doubted the decision to purchase the machine for 580,000 yuan, but over time, the Case 580L proved its worth. The performance of the equipment won over the team, and everyone gave a thumbs up to the decision.
Maintenance and Issues
Over the nine years of working with the Case 580L, many stories have unfolded. One of the first issues I encountered was related to the gearbox oil. At first, we didn’t realize that a special torque fluid was required for the gearbox, rather than regular transmission oil. This led to the machine’s performance degrading after two years, especially in summer when its movement became sluggish. After sending it to the repair center, we found out that the gearbox had become clogged with the wrong oil, and we had to spend more than 30,000 yuan to repair it. Apart from this major repair, most of the maintenance involved replacing wear-and-tear parts, such as the central control switch for the tracks, which wore down due to prolonged use, and the gear shift lever, which broke after frequent shifting. The engine, however, continued to perform admirably without any major repairs. Overall, the Cummins 4BT3.9 engine has shown excellent durability.
Annually, we also had to replace the excavator’s bucket teeth as part of regular maintenance.
Handling and Driving Experience
The handling of the Case 580L is very smooth and user-friendly. It comes equipped with a three-spoke steering wheel. Thanks to its fully hydraulic system, the steering is very light and precise, allowing the driver to turn the wheel with just two full rotations. The loader’s control lever is single, which makes operation comfortable and quick, while the excavator’s controls are dual, allowing for efficient and quick combination movements. The gearshift lever is conveniently placed on the right side, and shifting is smooth. Additionally, the handbrake and loader controls have a break-away button, which makes operation more convenient.
The seat is equipped with a shock-absorbing design, enhancing comfort during long hours of work.
Modifications and Customization
In terms of modifications, not many changes have been made to the vehicle itself, apart from upgrades to the entertainment system. The original radio was replaced with a DVD system with visual capability. The number of speakers was increased from two to four, and although I considered adding a subwoofer, the limited space in the cabin prevented me from doing so. I also added a police-style roof light.
Drawbacks
While the Case 580L performs well overall, there are several areas in the cabin design that could use improvement. First, the engine is relatively old and lacks electronic control, which puts it at a disadvantage compared to more modern competitors like JCB. Secondly, the steering wheel cannot be adjusted, unlike JCB models, which provide adjustable steering columns for better comfort. The seat cannot recline, which makes long hours of operation tiring. Additionally, the maintenance costs are relatively high because all parts must be sourced from the manufacturer, and there is no aftermarket option. This makes maintenance expensive, especially for parts like filters and lubricants.
About Case
Case Construction Equipment has a history of over 160 years, founded by J.I. Case and initially producing steam rollers and graders in the late 19th century. Over the years, Case has expanded its product line and by 1912 had become a full-line construction equipment manufacturer. The company has been known for its industry "firsts" and continues to lead in innovation in construction machinery and solutions. Today, Case offers 15 product lines and 90 models of machinery designed to meet the challenges of tough work environments. With a global presence in over 160 countries, Case provides extensive support and service to its customers worldwide.
Conclusion
Overall, the Case 580L backhoe loader has proven itself to be a reliable and versatile machine, ideal for rapid transitions between repair sites and various tasks. Although it does have some room for improvement in terms of cabin design and parts availability, it has delivered consistent, high-performance results. For teams engaged in urban infrastructure projects or emergency repairs, the Case 580L has certainly proven to be a valuable investment. We hope Case will continue to improve on details and make spare parts more accessible for the Chinese market in the future.

Backhoe loaders, also known as "two-way busy" machines, are highly valued for their versatility and quick transition capabilities. These machines find applications in urban and rural road construction, cable laying, electrical works, airport projects, municipal construction, agricultural irrigation, rural residential construction, stone extraction, and various small construction projects. In China, backhoe loaders are primarily used in municipal construction, water and gas pipeline emergency repairs, and small-scale road maintenance. Below is a user review of the JCB 3CX-2T backhoe loader, written by a municipal unit employee from Linyi, Shandong province. The opinions expressed in this report are personal and do not represent any official stance.
Machine Overview
The JCB 3CX-2T is the second backhoe loader in Shandong Province, purchased in October 2004 for 870,000 RMB through a trade-in. When the machine arrived, it had just 5 hours of operation. At the time, no one in the unit knew how to operate it, so I relied on my experience with wheel loaders and excavators, as well as trial and error, to gradually get the hang of it. Over time, 8 operators in total have trained on this machine, with most of the work being carried out by me.
Machine Specifications
The JCB 3CX-2T is equipped with a 4-cylinder, turbocharged 95-horsepower Perkins engine. It comes with vacuum tires (Goodyear for the front tires and another imported brand for the rear), and all 8 work lights are high-brightness “Hella” brand from Germany. The backhoe section has a side-shift feature (not a powered side-shift) and includes a 360-degree hydraulic breaker.
A downside to this model is that the tool kit only includes a grease gun, a pressure gauge, and a tire-changing tool, with no wrenches included. I hope the manufacturer can improve this in the future, as even a basic toolset would make a big difference in user satisfaction.
Key Features and Usage
The machine has been primarily used for large projects, with occasional smaller tasks for other units. The operation is smooth when using the loader function, but the backhoe section lacks pilot controls, making it tiring to operate for long periods. The backhoe loader’s ability to transition between tasks quickly is convenient for urban operations, especially for small jobs like road repairs. However, the operator has no time to rest while others or other machinery take breaks.
Advantages

1. Air Conditioning and Comfort
   The two-wheel drive model comes with air conditioning, which is effective with multiple air vents. The air compressor is made by Shanghai Yichu General.
   
2. Good Sound Insulation
   The cabin provides excellent sound insulation. Even while using the breaker, the noise inside the cabin is not overwhelming.
   
3. Comfortable Seat
   Initially, the seat didn’t have a headrest, but I added a Steyr headrest for extra comfort.
   
4. Great Shock Absorption
   The shock absorption is very good, though the backrest cannot fully recline due to limitations with the rear control levers.
   
5. Adjustable Steering Wheel and Storage
   The steering wheel is adjustable, and there’s an air-conditioned storage compartment for drinks during the summer.
   
6. Handbrake and Loader Controls
   The handbrake and loader control handles have a detent button, making them practical and user-friendly. The electronic shifting is smooth and comfortable.
   
7. Spacious Cabin
   The cabin is spacious; I once managed to fit 7 people inside.
   
8. Sound System and Radio
   Although it doesn’t come with a radio, I purchased and installed a cassette player, and the sound system works well with standard connectors.
   

1. Loose Front Axle Bearing Cover
   Shortly after receiving the machine, the front axle bearing cover on the right side came off. The arm cylinder oil pipe started leaking, and the rear axle bolts loosened.
   
2. Hydraulic Oil Cooler and Oil Leaks
   Using the breaker caused significant vibrations, which led to the hydraulic oil cooler’s inlet hose wearing out. The repair was done locally but still experienced some oil leakage.
   
3. Transmission Oil Leaks
   The transmission has had consistent oil leakage. Initially, poor diesel quality caused the diesel pump to fail, requiring a hammer to restart it. A foreign technician confirmed the pump issue, and a replacement was flown in from Singapore.
   
4. Water Infiltration in Engine
   Since the machine has no indoor garage and is stored outside, rainwater often enters through the exhaust pipe, causing starting difficulties. After starting, black liquid would pour from the exhaust, making it hard to clean.
   
5. Exhaust Muffler Rust and Leaks
   Rainwater accumulated at the top of the muffler, causing it to rust and shake. After a short time, the exhaust pipe would come loose, resulting in further damage. I had to replace it for 1,600 RMB.
   
6. Damaged Door from Vehicle Collision
   In 2006, a colleague accidentally damaged the left-side door while operating another vehicle. The door’s hinge was made of cast iron and could not be repaired. The cost for a replacement door was quoted at 16,000 RMB, but I temporarily used a plastic covering until it was replaced after over a year.
   
7. Heavy Tire Wear Due to Large Steering Angle
   The front tires suffer from rapid wear due to the large steering angle. Tires need to be replaced every two years, and removing tires is a challenge due to the vacuum seal. I eventually replaced them with steel-wire tires and had to repair the rear tires at a local shop.
   
8. Electrical Failures
   Since the cabin is well-sealed, the air conditioning was always on when entering. After three years, the fan motor failed, and I replaced it with a cheaper aftermarket model. The new fan works fine but with less airflow and more noise than the original.
   
9. Frequent Issues with Lights and Electrical Components
   The rear lights were damaged during work and had to be replaced. After installation, they still faced issues, such as bulbs melting. I also had to replace the front light switch and brake light switch, modifying them with cheaper parts from the market.