I have a 1 ton sitting in the port about to be delivered. I had a similar journey with similar results. Reviews were critical, as were videos such as your own. I plan on doing an unboxing and inspection video when my machine arrives so others can learn from my experience. Thanks!

@howardkettner

7 ай бұрын

Really looking to seeing and hearing more about your unboxing. Just subscribed to your channel. I'm very intrigued by the whole 'Chinese mini-ex imports' thing.

@johneaton4364

7 ай бұрын

very interested in your video

@geehernandez8446

2 ай бұрын

Where did you order it from

@DiggerDaveSea

2 ай бұрын

@@geehernandez8446 I bought it direct from Hightop in China and imported it.

Thanks Howard, I enjoyed watching. I am in the same situation but I really enjoy taking beat-up name brands and making them function again. I can do this because I really dont need to do any work with it but love the process.

@howardkettner

6 ай бұрын

Well said! That is very definitely a joy and fulfilment unto itself. Thanks for tuning in and being part of my journey!

Really good video Howard, I'm very enthusiastic about your enthusiasm. I too bought a Chinese excavator,(a 2 ton Rhino) mainly just to work on my own property. Originally I got the 1.2 T model and absolutely hated it but the importer had a 2 T demo one with about 50 hours on it so we swapped. Cost me more money but I've never regretted it. The 2 T is so much better built, better to operate and much more stable on my uneven property. As it turns out now after 2 years it's just about at 500 hrs and running like a dream. I'm the only one who operates it and I am very conscientious regarding maintenance because I want this thing to last. I've only just found your channel and already see I have quite a bit of catching up to do with your other videos so be patient with me. Thanks very much for what you are doing. Cheers.

@howardkettner

7 ай бұрын

Huge thanks for tuning in and being part of the conversation - and for your kind words. I'm publishing out another video on the little 1.8 ton perhaps later today. It's been a learning experience for me, but a good one. No regrets. Really enjoying your channel. Just subscribed.

Howard! Wonderful review! I truly appreciate you sharing your thought process and method of analysis. You are saving so many hours for all of us who may be considering the same purchase!

@howardkettner

8 ай бұрын

Ahhh - you are very kind. Three more episodes in the works. Don't hesitate to let me know if any specifics you'd like more info about. I found that there were not a lot of resources on this subject so tried to address some of the questions and apprehensions I had going into this. All the very best!

The EX50 has attachments: Hammer, forks, thumb, cement mixer, compactor, quick coupler, off set boom, 3 buckets. With a $5000 dumper/digger carrier, built 15 houses over 15 years. Sold the lot for $55,000

@howardkettner

2 ай бұрын

Oh wow! What a terrific success story. thanks for tuning in . . .

Great video. Thanks for sharing

@howardkettner

8 ай бұрын

Huge thanks for tuning in and being part of my journey. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out. This is a new journey for me, and I wish I'd asked a better quality of question . . .

Hi Howard, love the video. I got a quote on a machine just like this a few days ago. I’m a few weeks from being ready to pull the trigger on it, but it’ll be SO HANDY around my 20 acres in South Carolina. Thanks for the video and I just subscribed!

@howardkettner

8 ай бұрын

That is awesome! Thanks for tuning in and being part of my journey. Got a few more episodes in the works that might help with some of the questions I should have asked before I finalized my 'buy' decision. I see you've been posting out to KZread. I've subscribed so that I can be part of your new excavator experience. I've got an identical size plot of ground, and one definitely needs a mini-ex around a property of that size. All the best! Let me know if any questions.

Excellent thought process and good explanation of it. Look forward to seeing how it performs. Regards, Kevin

@howardkettner

8 ай бұрын

Thanks 👍 for being part of my always somewhat flawed journey. Stay tuned for the big wake-up call in P3 and P4.

Hi Howard, we met this summer, I bought a cement mixer from you. I've imported half a dozen Chinese excavators over the last two years. Just thought I would give you some feedback on my experience with them. I've sold all of them, including a 1.8 ton like yours, except one, 1 ton, that I kept for myself. The only problems that buyers have reported to me are a couple of hydraulic leaks. My supplier has been good sending out new hoses and drive motor seals when needed. I've got about 100 hours on my one ton, and am really impressed with it. It is much more capable than I thought it would be. I think you probably will put more than 50 hours a year on yours, especially with the attachments you have. I find I'm using mine all the time. I think you made a good purchase and am looking forward to seeing it in action. BTW, the cement mixer you sold me works great! I used it to pour footings for a pole building and it was so nice having the ability to mix a small amount of cement myself. Also I do have an extra log grapple that will fit your excavator. If you're interested in it, I'll give you a good deal.

@howardkettner

8 ай бұрын

Wow! Wayne - had I known you were bringing those in I'd have reached out to you. Thank you for the confidence instilling comments. I felt like I was taking a big step into the unknown with this. Hydraulic leaks are no big deal. haha. I dealt with more than my share on all sorts of new equipment by North American manufacturers. Thrilled that the cement mixer worked out! I'll reach out by text - would love to see a pic of the log grapple.

@johneaton4364

7 ай бұрын

Hi Wayne; Where are yoou located? I am researching machines and hoping to buy next summer. I am in Vernon, BC- Do you import continually? thanks, John

Good Info...!!!

@howardkettner

8 ай бұрын

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for being part of my journey!

I honestly wish I had gotten a new Chinese mini excavator instead of my used tb016.

@howardkettner

Күн бұрын

We've all been there. I had a used (well used) unit before this one, and was getting more and more annoyed about the unexpected issues that kept emerging at the worst possible moments.

Just bought mine at auction saved a ton of money didnt have to wait didnt have to deal with import fees or dealer costs only downside is absolutely zero warranty im a mechanic by trade so not worried about that at all inspect what your buying and all should be good

@howardkettner

8 күн бұрын

Nicely done. I know others that have done the same with great success. All the best and thanks for tuning in . . .

I picked up a used little 1 ton Wacker Neuson several years ago before the prices went through the roof. These imports seem decent and no matter where they come from, they sure are handy. I use mine all the time and it's worth having one just to save wear & tear on the body.

@howardkettner

2 ай бұрын

I took a look at your little 1-ton. Awesome. If one has a small acreage, you are absolutely correct. Saves a lot of wear and tear on the body. Thanks for tuning in and being part of my journey!

Great video!

@howardkettner

2 ай бұрын

Thanks! Huge thanks for tuning in. Within the next week I'll post a video outlining a major fix.

Perfect analysis of why these things make sense for non professional part time users.

@howardkettner

8 ай бұрын

Thanks for tuning in and being part of my journey.

Great Vid Sir!. I had a 5T Hitachi EX50, iwith 4500hours, paid $8,000, over 15 year, a set of new rubber tracks, a few hoses blown, at time of selling, runs like day 1. I was a Chinese, has a deep trust for Japanese digger, but now retired, like to have new toy for my yard.

@howardkettner

2 ай бұрын

Thanks for tuning in and sharing! Having a used piece of equipment like that Hitachi is a dream. Sadly, as I was searching for a replacement for my prior excavator, all I could find was equipment that was not just used, but totally used up . . . Pleased with where I landed.

The only Chinese import I've had experience with is my wife. I an VERY pleased.

@howardkettner

8 ай бұрын

hahaha. Congratulations and happy for you. I went with an American import (Oregon to be exact) and as I'm sure you can tell from the videos, I'm also VERY pleased!

@johnhuston650

6 ай бұрын

Right on!

I love your style, Howard. First video and I subscribed. I'm in the market for a mini. I'm going to be more hours than you, though. First unit like this, too. Thinking about UHI.

@howardkettner

2 ай бұрын

Awesome! Thank you for tuning in. Just got the drive motors on mine replaced and video posted last week. I mention this just to suggest that whatever make or model you get, make sure that the drive motors have the holdback feature that is standard fare with most major excavator brands. A downhill freewheel experience produces more excitement than most will appreciate. All the very best!

good night friends, success is always for you..indonesia

@howardkettner

8 ай бұрын

Thank you for tuning in and being part of my journey. All the very best to you. I just subscribed to your channel and will watch some of your videos later today. Love what you're doing.

The AGT QH12 has a Briggs & Stratton lawnmower engine that works the hydraulics and tracks. It is slow and bounces and vibrates and it is noisy. Depth is 5.4 feet but I recommend not to dig deeper than 2 1/2 to 3 feet for safety reasons. Parts are made in China. If taken care of and not abused and not left outdoors uncovered, it will last several years. You will need earplugs, hopefully you do not have back problems, this machine is not good if you have kidney problems. It takes nearly 2 hours to dig a 6 foot long and 2 1/2 foot deep trench. As mentioned it is not fast. It is not a child's toy and needs to be careful around objects because it is made of steel. Cost ranges from $6,000 to $8,000 New and Used is $4,000 to $5,000. If you paid more than $6,000 then you have been had.

@howardkettner

2 ай бұрын

Thanks for tuning in and sharing! Sounds like a terrific little machine that used properly is far superior to a pick and shovel. What I love about these Chinese mini-excavators is that it's made it affordable for a homeowner with a small property to do basic landscaping, digging - whether for trenching or tree-planting purposes - without having to wait for a contractor and pay outrageous contractor billed equipment fees. And the compactness of the units make them generally easy to store . . . Taking care of it like you are will likely result in you selling it for what you paid for it in several years should you choose to do so.

Good job on your video. I have a chinease mini excavator as well that I also ordered and imported directly from China. A 3 ton model with a cab also. Just like you I have some " annoyance " complain. But just like you . Was just at 25k with the need to pick up in toronto ontario. Being from the north( sudbury, On). For the price of a brand new machine with a 30 hp kubota D1703. I can deal with a lot of small stuff. But just like you. Getting in and out of cab make me hit the control arm all the time. But safety arm being up make it inoperable. So just annoyance 😅. But just like you u have a big 205 acres wooden / farm land propriety . So a lot of project but not commercial. I am glad that I went through the experience of ordering directly from factory. I think I did good price and quality wise. I am working on helping other peoples to do the same when they are interested in foing so. What to do . What not to do. What to expect from day one up to when you are picking up at the warehouse. What cost you should be expecting regarding inport fees that no one really talk about. . So maybe other will be prompt to do it and just like me help other to go through the process of ordering overseas. Thank you for your video. I love your attitude BTW. Keep on going. Thank you❤🎉

@howardkettner

6 ай бұрын

Oh wow - a 3 ton machine and 200 acres. That is so awesome. Will definitely look forward to hearing your updates. Huge thanks for the post. I really want to supplement the 'small and handy' features of the little unit I have now (15hp) with a machine your size, so will likely reach out for further info. All the very best!

@Rob_Adventures

5 ай бұрын

Please share more information. $25,000 including all taxes and fees for a 3 ton?

@howardkettner

5 ай бұрын

@@Rob_Adventures I'll let @pattrudeau2335 reply more fully, but my understanding from others is, yes - that is a possibility.

@kieley424

3 ай бұрын

Ya like more info on this as we

@howardkettner

3 ай бұрын

@@kieley424 More info coming soon on the channel.

The plant auctions are full of unsold Chinese machines, good for a purpose yes, but too many sellers are here today gone tomorrow, usually with your money, it's a buyers market with them, not a sellers.

Hey Howard, I’m looking at getting something similar and I’m also in Canada. Any chance you’d be willing to name the company you ended up dealing with? CAEL pops up a lot, but has some pretty bad reviews. Thx

@howardkettner

4 ай бұрын

Gladly - Bully Dog Equipment. Ask for Tucker and let him know we were talking. I'd rate Tucker and Bully Dog 5 out of 5. bullydogequipment.com/ Good on you for checking out the Google Reviews. I was on the same path as you until I checked the reviews. PS - thanks for tuning in and being part of the conversation.

What’s the brand you got?

@howardkettner

6 ай бұрын

Thanks for tuning in and being part of the conversation! The name on the boom is the name of the distributor I got it from, but it's made by www.votemachinery.com/ The manufacturer has replacement motors on the way with the holdback feature. They have them but there is nothing in their material or the distributor's material that identifies them as an option. Clearly price point is a priority as they never actually need to meet and deal with the customer.

Love the Norris Garb! Great Video my friend! I’m located on the big island of Hawaii on the Hilo side and I’m looking to purchase a micro Chinese machine, so I’m looking forward to following everything that you went through. do you have all of the information on the unit that you purchased out of curiosity? And is it available or was this a one off at an auction that I probably will never be able to find again?

@howardkettner

3 ай бұрын

Hahaha - I'll be pulling for Norris to podium later today at the Japan race . . . The manufacturer is having success - at least in terms of the number of machines that I understand are coming into Canada through Bully Dog, a Vancouver importer. The actual manufacturer is Vote Machinery. www.china-vote.com/list-miniexcavator.html They make something like 20 different mini-excavators and also other equipment. I'd buy this unit all over again. And for other readers of the comments section, I'd definitely recommend Bully Dog as a dealer/distributor. Great experience.

@flyHawaii989

3 ай бұрын

@@howardkettner yeah I've been a verstappen fan since he was a Youngster and now I find myself rooting for Carlos! I don't know what seat he might have for 2025 but it sure an interesting driving Market

@howardkettner

3 ай бұрын

@@flyHawaii989 Agreed - just gotta love Carlos. Saw Verstappen in Vegas when he was karting (Super Nats - or something like that). Impressive and a fan ever since. Come to think of it - I routinely applaud about half the drivers on the 2024 grid - even the boys from Haas.

@flyHawaii989

3 ай бұрын

@@howardkettner isn’t that true! I also love a handful of these guys! So, where do you think Carlos goes for 2025?

@howardkettner

3 ай бұрын

@@flyHawaii989 Oh man - lots of unknowns for next year. It's a guessing game as to what seats might open up. Red Bull? Mercedes? Regardless this season and next will be great for the F1 fans and viewers.

I stumbled on to another You Tube TALK CHANNEL. You must like the sound of your own voice.

What was the name of the importer? I have been looking for a while and it seems like I need to hire someone to do the paperwork for me to import it. Also, maybe I missed it but how much did it cost you TOTAL?

@howardkettner

14 күн бұрын

I arrived at the same conclusion as you. And the bulk shipping rates that an importer gets seemed to make a difference as well. All in with three buckets including the hydraulically tiltable landscape bucket, a post hole auger, ripping tooth, brush rake, thumb and quick-attach (you definitely want these last two items) the cost including freight, tax, etc was $25k CDN. bullydogequipment.com/ Ask for Tucker. Tell him that we were chatting . . . PS - I went this route because I literally could not find a used machine for $25k that I would consider bringing home. And believe me I pursued plenty over a period of probably 6 months.

@ChristopherMueller-vh5lk

14 күн бұрын

@@howardkettner Thank you for the speedy reply. I have actually been looking at that site already so that is awesome. Seeing your price, however, I can find something here in Texas that can be used more often and for harder projects for that price. Plus after watching your video a little longer, I realized I may be too big for those machines. I had wondered about that as well, I am 6'01" and 215 so I may be pushing the "cramped" a little too far for my liking. I really do appreciate your reply. The video was great by the way; very helpful. You have a great day.

@howardkettner

13 күн бұрын

@@ChristopherMueller-vh5lk Ahhhh - yes - you are absolutely correct. At any price if the machine is just too small physically, it is just not right. I'm 5'9 and 170 with a size 10 boot, and if I was any larger, I simply would not fit. That's a key consideration and I should have brought more attention to that in my video. All the best in your search . . . Thank you for your kind words.

because top brands are very greedy

The problem with Chinese products. It's never the idea. It's the fact that they mix other alloys with their metal. This makes it very weak. They do the same thing with the plastics and rubber. That's why you can always notice a difference between Chinese and American made. The holes where the pins or bolts are will wallow out much faster.

@howardkettner

6 күн бұрын

All good points. I don't disagree - and I went in eyes wide open & would never buy one of these if my business was excavating. As it stands, I'll probably use this about 100 hours per year, so for me, it's the right tool for the job. Thanks for tuning in . . .

Lot of digger/dumper/attachments.

@howardkettner

2 ай бұрын

For sure - that is definitely part of the appeal Huge thanks for tuning in . . .

i built my own

@howardkettner

3 ай бұрын

Thanks for tuning in. Now that sounds like a KZread series!

@WeberMachineWorks

3 ай бұрын

@@howardkettner I will make a video about it soon.

You paid way too much

@howardkettner

2 ай бұрын

It might initially appear that way - but my dealer is excellent and whenever I've had an issue, they pick-up the phone, and talk me through the solution - a full year after purchase. And they replaced the drive motors, no charge - not even for shipping . . . For me, that peace of mind is worth a lot.

Probably cheaper with slave labor.

@howardkettner

8 ай бұрын

Thanks for tuning in and being part of the conversation on this. Point well taken. I cannot say what the labour standards were, but it was something that I've had pause to consider post-order. That is something that I think needs to be much more front and centre than it is. Good on you to raise the point.

@ensteffo

2 ай бұрын

That is ridiculous and false and such accusations stems from racist smear tactic by western supremacist ideologs. Its like how US perpetrates a genocide in Palestine livestreamed on social media while accusing other countries of doing it with no evidence like those Iraq WMD`s.

@MrCheaterpipe

8 күн бұрын

As he types that on his slave labor cell phone

@MrCheaterpipe

8 күн бұрын

You think the people that made your shirts and socks are being paid a fair wage?

@MrCheaterpipe

8 күн бұрын

How about the people picking your fruits and veggies you buy at the grocery store?