Buying guide
How to Choose the Right Size Mini Excavator
Buying a mini excavator is mostly a question of matching the machine to the site. Too small and you will be fighting it all day; too big and you will not get it through the gate. Here is how we walk customers through the decision across the Jay-Hawk range.
1. Start with access width
Measure the narrowest point between your machine's parking spot and the work area: gate, side passage, shed door. Then compare it with the body width of each model:
| Model | Weight class | Body width |
|---|---|---|
| JHM10 | 1 tonne (1.2t operating) | 850 mm |
| JHM14 / JHM14K | 1.4 tonne | 1,100 mm |
| JHM20 | 2 tonne | 1,300 mm |
| JHM30 | 2.9 tonne | 1,500 mm |
2. Think about depth and reach
Maximum digging depth climbs with the size of the machine: about 1.79 m on the JHM10, 1.9 m on the JHM14 and JHM14K, and 2.5 m on the JHM30. For footings, drainage and post holes, most jobs sit comfortably inside the smaller machines. Septic work, deeper trenches and larger clearing jobs are where the JHM30 earns its keep.
3. Decide whether you need a swing arm
The JHM10 is deliberately stock-standard, with no swing arm. The JHM14, JHM14K and JHM20 add a 50 degree swing to each side, which lets you dig alongside a wall or fence without repositioning the whole machine. The JHM30 also has a 50 degree swing arm.
4. Choose your engine
The range uses a Koop 192 (JHM10), Laidong 385 (JHM14), Kubota D722 (JHM14K), Changchai (JHM20) and Changchai 490 (JHM30). The JHM14 and JHM14K share the same chassis, so the difference is purely the engine: if a genuine Kubota matters to you, that is the JHM14K.
5. Open canopy or air-con cab?
All models except the JHM30 have an open ROPS canopy. The JHM30 has an enclosed cab with air conditioning, which matters if you are working full days in summer heat or dust.
6. Do not forget transport
A machine you cannot move is no use to anyone. Check what your trailer and tow vehicle are rated for against the machine weight before you buy. We deliver Australia wide with freight quoted separately by address, or you can pick up from Arana Hills.
Quick pick
- Tight backyard or a small budget: JHM10
- Best all-rounder for most owner-builders and tradies: JHM14
- Same again with a Kubota engine: JHM14K
- More reach and power: JHM20
- All-day digging in comfort: JHM30
Talk to a human
Questions about the range, delivery or parts? Call 0422 999 583 or send an enquiry.
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