Older Hitachi UH083LC Excavator: Real User Feedback and Experience Summary

[MikePhua]

A user posted on an old forum seeking advice about buying a used Hitachi UH083LC excavator — a model from the late 1980s to early 1990s. Because of its age, he was unsure about maintenance costs, operational performance, and parts availability, so he asked experienced members for their opinions.
1. Main Concerns from the Original Poster

• The machine is inexpensive but has high working hours.
  
• Concerned whether old machines tend to leak oil or have loose structures.
  
• Worried about the difficulty of sourcing spare parts.
  
• Curious about how this model performs compared to other excavators in the same tonnage class.
  

2. Actual Feedback from Forum Users
Several experienced users shared their views:
✅ Simple and Durable Construction
Many longtime users praised the UH083LC’s classic, robust design. With proper maintenance, even high-hour machines can still perform reliably.
✅ Fast Operation and Strong Power
This generation of Hitachi excavators was known for an efficient hydraulic system, providing powerful swing and pushing force — ranking well among older models.
✅ Oil Leaks Are Common on Old Machines
Several warned that for machines 20–30 years old, common minor issues include hydraulic cylinder seal aging and oil hose leaks. These problems are more obvious if the machine was stored outdoors or poorly maintained. However, repair costs remain manageable, and parts are not too hard to find.
✅ Spare Parts Are Relatively Accessible
Though old, Hitachi machines have a considerable installed base in North America and elsewhere, so common parts like cylinder seals, pumps, and filters are generally available. Some rare structural parts (e.g., specific linkage arms) may be harder to source from the factory.
3. Additional Usage and Transport Tips
✔ The machine is slightly heavier than modern excavators of similar tonnage; check transport weight limits and trailer capacity carefully.
✔ For farm use or occasional jobs, the lifespan is usually sufficient. But for contractor work with high intensity and long hours, aging reliability risk must be considered.
4. Conclusion
Experienced forum members generally agree:
The Hitachi UH083LC is a classic, durable older model. If maintenance history is clear, main structural parts are intact without major repairs, and key hydraulics are in good condition, buying one cheap for personal use is a good deal. However, if you plan heavy continuous use or expect to resell at a profit, carefully consider future maintenance costs and parts availability.
Summary Sentence
“The older Hitachi UH083LC is tough and performs well, offering good secondhand value. Expect minor oil leaks and aging issues as normal — it’s best to inspect the machine with an experienced technician before buying.”