Buying a Used Kubota KX161 Excavator for Farm Projects and Family Opportunity

[MikePhua]

Kubota’s Compact Excavator Line and the KX161’s Role
Kubota, founded in 1890 in Osaka, Japan, has built a reputation for compact, reliable construction and agricultural equipment. The KX series of compact excavators has been a cornerstone of Kubota’s success in North America, offering machines that balance power, transportability, and operator comfort. The KX161, introduced in the early 2000s, sits in the upper tier of the compact class, with an operating weight around 11,000 lbs and a digging depth of approximately 12.5 feet.
Equipped with features like two-speed travel, auto idle, and quick coupler bucket systems, the KX161 is designed for trenching, grading, and light demolition. Its hydraulic thumb and auxiliary hydraulics make it versatile for handling debris, tree removal, and utility trenching. With a 48-inch clean-out bucket and a 24-inch digging bucket, it can switch between precision and bulk work with ease.
Evaluating the Machine’s Fit for Farm Projects
The proposed use of the excavator includes:

• Digging a 375-foot trench for geothermal piping (5 ft deep, 10 ft wide)
  
• Installing 900 feet of field tile
  
• Removing boulders and filbert trees
  
• Performing light grading across 30 acres
  

These tasks require a machine with reach, stability, and hydraulic finesse. While the KX161 is capable of handling these jobs, the trenching volume—estimated at 700 cubic yards—is substantial. A compact excavator will require time and possibly a second machine to move spoil efficiently. However, for owner-operated work done at a flexible pace, the KX161 offers a practical balance of capability and cost.
Machine Condition and Purchase Considerations
The unit in question is a 2005 model with 700 hours, previously owned by a concrete contractor. It includes:

• Hydraulic thumb
  
• Quick-change bucket system
  
• 24" digging bucket and 48" clean-out bucket
  
• Two-speed travel and auto idle
  
• Good track condition
  

The asking price is $29,000, which is competitive for a low-hour machine in this class. Comparable listings in the region range from $35,000 and up. Key inspection points before purchase include:

• Bucket pin and bushing wear, especially if the 48" bucket was used extensively
  
• Hydraulic cylinder seals and hose condition
  
• Track tension and roller wear
  
• Engine startup behavior and idle stability
  
• Control responsiveness and swing motor noise
  

If the machine passes inspection and includes a trailer, the value increases. A comparable 14,000 lb-rated trailer with brakes and an 18-foot deck typically costs around $4,800 new.
Transport and Towing Considerations
The buyer’s Dodge 2500 Cummins is capable of towing the KX161, but only with a properly rated trailer and functioning trailer brakes. DOT regulations require brakes on trailers over 3,500 lbs, and towing 11,000 lbs without them is both unsafe and illegal. With a suitable trailer, the truck can handle local moves, though long-distance hauling may require a lowboy service.
Recommendations:

• Install a trailer brake controller in the truck
  
• Use a gooseneck or pintle hitch for better weight distribution
  
• Limit towing to short distances unless using a commercial hauler
  

For occasional moves, hiring a lowboy at $150–$200 per trip may be more cost-effective than upgrading the towing setup.
Family Opportunity and Emotional Investment
Beyond the technical and financial aspects, the purchase carries emotional weight. The buyer’s father, recently laid off after 31 years, has experience operating compact excavators and finds joy in equipment work. Owning a machine could provide him with side income and a renewed sense of purpose. In this context, the excavator becomes more than a tool—it’s a bridge to opportunity and dignity.
This type of investment, when made thoughtfully, can yield returns beyond dollars. Even if the machine is sold after the projects are completed, its use will have provided skills, experience, and potential income.
Alternative Options and Strategic Advice
Some contributors suggest considering a larger machine—such as a 120 or 160 class excavator—for faster trenching and broader capability. These machines, weighing 25,000–30,000 lbs, can often be found for $15,000–$20,000 used. However, they require commercial transport and may be overkill for the intended scope.
If the buyer is committed to compact equipment:

• Stick with the 8–12k lb range for towing flexibility
  
• Ensure the machine has a thumb and auxiliary hydraulics
  
• Consider resale value and regional demand for compact excavators
  
• Use the machine to build operator skill and explore local job opportunities
  

For trenching, renting a dedicated trencher for the geothermal loop may be more efficient. Polyethylene tubing can be installed in a 5-foot trench with less spoil and faster progress.
Conclusion
Purchasing a Kubota KX161 for farm projects and family use is a sound decision when approached with clear expectations and proper planning. The machine offers versatility, reliability, and resale potential. With the right trailer, safety upgrades, and inspection diligence, it can serve as both a practical tool and a meaningful investment in personal growth and family resilience. In the world of iron and earth, sometimes the best machines are the ones that move more than just dirt—they move lives forward.