Considerations for an older, mid sized, 25ton machine. ?

So...I guess not buying a Komatsu I was looking at. After looking into the brand, they do seem like decent machines, but I think I need to open my search a bit as we need to get something here soon. Primary reason for selling our other 200 series CAT was that we needed finer control for lifting applications.

I think it was said here that Komatsu had very smooth operation. I am not sure how far back their servo control system goes, but I am wondering if that is key to their smooth and accurate performance?

I realized I don't honestly know when CAT started using servo control? One CAT guy I know made it sound like CAT didn't make the switch until much later than Komatsu. I have no idea about the other brands.

Hoping to have a conversation regarding older excavators, their pros and cons, performance aspects, and what might come out as a recommendation. I don't want to buy even remotely new, but I don't want to get something too old that I don't have all the features I really want/need.

What are you lifting and what kind of tolerance are you looking for?

And what is your budget?

Look for a UH series Hitachi like a UH122.

As far as level of precision, well, I could be doing anything from loading hay bales, to lifting and placing 12,000# industrial machines. I think moving machines is where I got the idea to get a more precise machine. We do crane lifts from time to time and would like to be as close to crane or forklift precision as practical.

Price, I would just say "economical". I won't put $50k into something that probably sits 300 days a year. I am willing to do some repairs but I generally find if something is neglected, the whole machine is probably that way. I looked at one that needed an engine, and I am fine with that if the rest is decent.

I don't really want to get a "b*****d child" that I cannot get parts for, or find books or help. Trying to stay with cat, deere, komatsu, hitachi, terex, volvo, etc. Just not sure how each of those compare in which models.

Excavators are not designed to be precision lifting machines like a crane. They may have some safety features but not sure what happens if a hose blows while lifting.

The booms are usually load checked which prevents crashing, even if blowing a hose. I don't think the sticks usually have them. That could be added if we did it all the time. I realize there is some risk but we work to keep people safe and don't have to do heavy lifts all that much. I think the last one was lifting a 15k# farm implement off a trailer. You can rig and then just get back and let me do the lift.

I think you'll need a bigger machine if you want to 15K lbs.

The old CAT did it. Granted, I realize you can only be in the sweet spot for that lift and NOT swing. I was just just trying to get something off a trailer. Also have a forklift to do tandem lifts if needed.

My old 790D successfully lifted 12k lbs over the side at about 15ft out, and it had more in it. Lift chart says (with standard stick) it'll pick 21k, 10ft above ground level, 15ft out front or rear and says that's 75% of tipping weight. I believe it, these old girls have a big ass and plenty of power.

Over the years I’ve made thousands of picks ,It’s more the the shape of the machine then the make of the
Machine