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+--- Thread: Retirement and New Excavator: A Fresh Start (/thread-5602.html)
Retirement and New Excavator: A Fresh Start - MikePhua - 06-27-2025
After retiring on January 2nd, I decided it was time for a new adventure and purchased a new excavator to replace my Kubota KX161. I chose the Kubota KX080-3, which weighs 18,000 lbs. The machine arrived at the dealer two weeks ago, but they’ve asked me to postpone delivery until the second week of February so they can showcase it at a show.
From a user's perspective, the KX080-3 is a great machine. The cabin is incredibly spacious, offering a lot of comfort. It has two separate hydraulic output circuits, both with proportional flow controls, making operation smooth and efficient. One feature I particularly appreciate is how easy it is to service—thanks to three movable panels on the machine. It also has its own hose and pump system, allowing you to refuel from ground level, which is a fantastic convenience, especially when working in the woods. Additionally, the machine’s key has a built-in security code, making it much harder for someone to steal or use the machine without permission.
Now that I’m retired, I have more time to focus on bigger projects. I’ll take some pictures of the machine once it’s delivered, but as luck would have it, it might snow that day, and the ground could freeze, making things even more interesting.
Thoughts from Others
A few fellow enthusiasts shared their excitement and experiences after learning about my new purchase. Some of them had considered buying a Kubota mini-excavator a couple of years ago but opted to spend their money elsewhere. They were impressed by Kubota's reputation for making durable excavators and expressed interest in getting their own in the future.
Another commenter mentioned their search for a 12,000-lb excavator and wondered if I had any feedback on the KX161, which I had owned before. My KX161 had about 360 hours on it and had been a reliable machine, though a bit small for the projects I had in mind. The main downside was the relatively small cab and the limited hydraulic flow to the auxiliary circuit. Despite this, I would buy another one if I needed a smaller machine. The Kubota machines are known for their reliability, and mine certainly lived up to that reputation.
Upcoming Projects
I have several projects lined up, including building homes for my daughters on their respective six-acre plots. One of the major tasks involves rebuilding a crossway on the back of my property, which requires rerouting a stream and building up flood control banks. Afterward, we’ll begin clearing another 20 acres to plant blueberries.
I’m especially excited about the prospect of using the new excavator for these larger projects. The KX080-3 will make tasks like these much more manageable, especially when it comes to handling rocks, digging, and moving earth.
Some Advice and Tips
When it comes to equipment, a few other forum members weighed in with advice and experiences about using mini-excavators in similar terrains. One mentioned that Goshen, where I live, is known for its abundance of large rocks, and navigating these would be a challenge without the right equipment. That’s why I made sure to order my new excavator with a thumb attachment—a critical tool for picking up rocks, even smaller ones weighing up to 500 lbs.
Others shared stories of using smaller excavators, such as the KX71-3, to move logs or harvest firewood. While I have been using a logging winch for firewood harvesting, I now look forward to using the excavator for these tasks. It’s definitely an upgrade and makes life a lot easier.
On Dealer Support
I also received a lot of positive feedback about dealer support, which is critical when it comes to buying any piece of equipment. One individual recommended the Kubota dealer R&S for their excellent customer service and support, noting that it’s the dealer, rather than the brand itself, that makes a significant difference in the ownership experience.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I am excited about this new chapter and the projects ahead. The KX080-3 will certainly help me tackle the challenges of my land, especially given its extra power and features. From the comments I’ve received, it’s clear that a good machine, backed by solid dealer support, can make a world of difference. I’m looking forward to using it and sharing pictures once it’s officially delivered.
Key Points from the Discussion:
- Kubota KX161 Experience: Reliable but small for larger projects, with a need for more hydraulic flow.
- New KX080-3 Features: Spacious cabin, two hydraulic circuits, refuelable from ground level, built-in security code for theft prevention.
- Upcoming Projects: Includes landscaping, building homes, and creating flood control systems on the property.
- The Importance of a Thumb: Critical for rock handling, especially in rocky terrains like Goshen.
- Dealer Support Matters: Solid support from a good dealer, such as Kubota's R&S, makes a huge difference in the long-term experience.