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NorTrac Mini Excavator Review and Insights - MikePhua - 06-28-2025
I recently acquired a NorTrac Mini Excavator and wanted to share my thoughts and experiences with it. After doing extensive research and considering different models, I decided to go with the NorTrac brand, which seemed to offer good value for money. Here's a summary of my experience so far.
Purchase Decision
I chose the NorTrac Mini Excavator because of its affordable price, strong performance reviews, and versatile capabilities. The model I purchased was specifically designed for both residential and small-scale commercial tasks. The compact size of the machine made it ideal for tight spaces and the type of work I needed to complete.
Initial Impressions
Upon receiving the machine, I noticed that it was well-packaged and the assembly was fairly simple. However, the user manual could have been more detailed, especially for first-time operators. Some of the instructions were a bit vague, but after some trial and error, I was able to get the machine up and running.
Performance and Capabilities
The NorTrac Mini Excavator has impressed me with its performance. Despite being smaller than some other excavators, it offers solid digging power and good lifting capacity. I've primarily used it for trenching, small demolition jobs, and landscaping tasks. The hydraulics work efficiently, and I haven't encountered any significant delays or issues when operating the controls.
The machine's maneuverability in tight spaces is its standout feature. Whether it's working in narrow paths or confined areas, the excavator is agile and can easily navigate around obstacles. It has a smooth operating system, and the controls are responsive, making tasks much easier and faster.
Issues and Maintenance
While the machine has performed well overall, there have been a couple of issues that I encountered after some use:
- Track Tension: Similar to other mini excavators, I had to adjust the track tension after some usage. If the tracks are too loose or tight, it can lead to operational problems like slipping or jerking during use.
- Hydraulic Leaks: There were some minor hydraulic leaks around the bucket cylinder. This was fixed with some seal replacements, which were fairly inexpensive and easy to do.
- Starting Issues in Cold Weather: The machine can sometimes struggle to start in colder temperatures, especially if it's been sitting idle for a while. I’ve found that using a battery maintainer during the off-season helps alleviate this issue.
Overall, the NorTrac Mini Excavator has been a solid addition to my equipment lineup. It's affordable, compact, and performs well for small to medium tasks. While it’s not the most powerful excavator on the market, it certainly delivers good value for its price. As long as you stay on top of routine maintenance, the machine can handle a variety of jobs with ease.
If you’re in the market for a mini excavator and are on a budget, I would definitely recommend considering NorTrac. It’s a great entry-level option for both DIY projects and smaller commercial tasks. However, as with any equipment, it's important to monitor performance, keep it well-maintained, and address issues promptly to ensure longevity.