Excavator Buying Guide: Which Models Are Truly Machine Stable?

[Alecs]

Hey everyone, I’m thinking about getting an excavator for my farm/project, and I’ve been looking at a ton of models. Honestly, it’s a bit overwhelming.
What really matters to me is whether the machine is machine stable—can it handle long hours without constant repairs? Small machines are fine for light work, but for medium and large excavators, stability really makes a difference.
Has anyone used a model that felt truly machine stable? How’s the maintenance on it? And when buying a used machine, how do you check if it’s actually machine stable? Any real-world advice would be much appreciated—trying to avoid costly mistakes!

 

[kksajib6]

Focus on hours, service records, undercarriage wear, and hydraulic leaks. Reputable brands feel more stable. Test under load, check swing play, and budget preventive maintenance from experienced dealers or owners.

 

[oraculum]

stability usually comes down to undercarriage width, track length, and balance-not just the brand. lc versions and wider tracks almost always feel more planted. cat, komatsu, and hitachi are generally solid in that regard, especially in mid-tol-arge classes.

also, machine condition matters a lot. a tight older excavator can feel more stable than a worn newer one. that's why checking machines at ritchie bros helps-you can compare models side by side and see real condition before buying.

 

[seanbanks013]

These are all great points. To follow up on what has been mentioned, when you're testing a used machine for stability, pay close attention to the swing play and the main pin. If there's a lot of "slop" or wobbling when you rotate or dig, the machine is going to feel shaky no matter how wide the tracks are.