12 ton excavator preference?

[zraffz]

I have narrowed down my choice to start out with a 12 ton excavator because it's the biggest machine I can safely tow with my single axle (21k rear) and the other companies in the area range from a 12 to 15 ton machine. I figure I can be legal with a 30,000lb machine at most

I see multiple brands in the size and price range I am looking at. I'd like to stay right around $30,000... which puts me in the market for a 20 year old machine. I've spoken to a few local guys and everybody has their preference. I'd like to start looking at machines but don't know which manufacturer I want to go with.

I ran a hitachi ex120-3 & 5 for a few years and liked it but was wondering how a Komatsu pc120-6 or a cat 312 would compare as far as power, fuel consumption and cost of parts. I'd have no issue switching hoses on the valve body to have my desired controls. I am mechanically inclined and wouldn't be paying for work to be done unless it was something major but their is a local shop who works on any brand. The closest dealer for the 3 brands is an hour away.

 

[Dickjr.]

I wouldn't be really looking at the brand but more so the condition. Any of the three you mentioned , which ever one was the best condition would be my choice. I'd consider a Deere and a Case as well but solely based on the condition.

 

[zraffz]

I understand About the condition. I don't think case makes a machine in this size range and deere doesn't have a 120 model until a few years later and closer to 40 grand. If I was buying a 40g machine, I'd be selling the Pete for a tandem and buying a 135 model machine.

 

[JGibson]

Case has made a 9010, and a CX130, excavatly combarable to the PC120 and 312. Case And Link Belt are the same thing, but Link Belt makes a fnatastic machine, that would be a LS2659, 2650Q and 130LX. Deere also makes a fantastic excavator and they have been making a 12 ton machine longer then most... 490D, 490E fantastic machines. A model number doesn't say everything...

 

[JGibson]

A few spelling errors in my above post^... *exactly, *fantastic, *LS2650

 

[zraffz]

I actually really like what I am reading about the case 9010b! The price is right in my range too.

I knew about the 490 deer and didn't know anything about the linkbelt manufacturer. I think I am defiantly in the market for a 9010b Or comparable linkbelt 2650q. Thanks.