Kubota KX018-4 Excavator – Prices, Specs, Buyers Guide

Kubota KX018-4

The Kubota KX018-4 is a compact mini-excavator.

Powered by a reliable and fuel-efficient Kubota D902-E4 engine, this machine boasts a net horsepower of 16.8 HP, providing ample power for a wide range of excavation tasks.

What sets the KX018-4 apart is its ability to deliver this power in a compact and nimble package, making it suitable for both residential and commercial projects where space is limited.

KX018-4 Versatile Performance

One of the standout features of the Kubota KX018-4 is its versatility. This compact excavator is designed to handle a variety of tasks with ease, thanks to its hydraulic system.

With a maximum digging depth of 7.8 feet and a digging radius of 13.6 feet, it can tackle digging, trenching, and grading tasks efficiently. The machine’s impressive bucket breakout force of 3,963 lbs ensures it can handle tough soil and materials with ease.

Additionally, the KX018-4 comes with a two-speed travel function, allowing it to switch between high and low speeds depending on the task at hand. This feature not only enhances productivity but also makes manoeuvring around the job site a breeze. Whether you need to navigate through tight spaces or cover a larger area quickly, the KX018-4 has you covered.

Kubota KX018-4 – Features

  • Large Cab: The KX018-4 offers one of the largest cabs in its class with ample legroom, adjustable seating, and a wide door. This cab model brings more comfort to tough work
  • Adjustable Track Width: The adjustable track width allows the operator to reduce the width of the tracks to 2’4″ for easy access through narrow spaces and expand them to 2’9″ for greater stability
  • Variable Width Undercarriage: The variable width undercarriage allows the operator to expand the tracks to 4’1″ for greater stability when digging and reduce them to 3’3″ for easy access through narrow spaces
  • Powerful Engine: The Kubota KX018-4 is powered by a 16.8 horsepower engine that delivers high performance and efficiency
  • Hydraulic System: The hydraulic system of the KX018-4 is designed to provide smooth and powerful performance. The system includes a variable displacement pump, a hydraulic oil cooler, and a hydraulic control valve
  • Auxiliary Hydraulics: The KX018-4 comes with auxiliary hydraulics that allow the operator to use a wide range of attachments, including hydraulic breakers, augers, and thumbs
  • Digital Display: The digital display provides the operator with real-time information about the machine’s performance, including fuel level, engine temperature, and warning indicators.
  • Two-speed travel: The two-speed travel feature allows the KX018-4 to travel quickly and efficiently on the job site.
  • Retractable undercarriage: The retractable undercarriage allows the KX018-4 to fit through narrow openings and work in confined spaces.
  • Power and performance: The Kubota KX018-4 is a powerful and versatile mini excavator that can handle a wide range of tasks.
  • Fuel efficiency: The Kubota KX018-4 is fuel efficient, which can save contractors money in the long run.
  • Low noise levels: The Kubota KX018-4 has low noise levels, which makes it ideal for working in residential areas.
  • Comfort and convenience: The Kubota KX018-4 is a comfortable and convenient machine to operate. The spacious cab features a fully adjustable seat, air conditioning, and a digital display.

Kubota KX018-4 Price

The price of a Kubota KX018-4 can vary depending on whether it is new or used, its condition, and location. Here are some current prices for the KX018-4 in the USA and Canada:

New:

  • 2022 KUBOTA KX018-4 in Tully, NY: $34,950
  • 2018 KUBOTA KX018-4 in Brunswick, OH: $25,000

Used:

  • 2015 Kubota KX018-4R1 in Austin, TX: $19,500
  • 2014 Kubota KX018-4 in Chandler, AZ: $29,999
  • CAD $29,800 – CAD $50,071 (approximately USD $22,500 – USD $38,000) in Canada

It’s important to note that prices can vary widely depending on the condition and location of the machine. It’s always a good idea to research prices in your area and compare different options before making a purchase.

Kubota KX018-4 Specs

  • Operating Weight: 3,747 lbs with canopy / 3,967 lbs with cab
  • Engine Power: 16.8 horsepower
  • Fuel Tank Capacity: 5.6 gallons
  • Hydraulic Pump Flow Capacity: 3.8 gallons per minute
  • Hydraulic System Fluid Capacity: 7.4 gallons
  • Digging Depth: 7’9.7″
  • Digging Depth – Vertical: 6’2.6″
  • Digging Height: 11′
  • Max Reach Along Ground: 12.7 ft
  • Max Vertical Wall Digging Depth: 6.5 ft
  • Max Dumping Height: 7.9 ft
  • Max Digging Radius: 154.4 in
  • Max Travel Speed: 2.5 mph
  • Bucket Capacity: 0.04 cubic yards
  • Bucket Width: 0.45 m
  • Track Width: 230 mm
  • Ground Pressure: 3.41 psi
  • Dimensions (L x W x H): 10 ft 1 in x 5 ft 11 in x 7 ft 10 in
  • Ground clearance: 13.8 in
  • Tail swing: 5 ft 11 in

Kubota Kx018-4 Attachments

The Kubota KX018-4 is a versatile compact excavator that can be enhanced with various attachments to expand its capabilities and adapt it to different tasks and applications. Here are some common attachments that can be used with the Kubota KX018-4:

  1. Buckets:
    • Standard Excavator Bucket: The standard bucket is suitable for general digging, trenching, and material handling tasks.
    • Ditching Bucket: This bucket has a wider shape, ideal for creating ditches and grading work.
    • Grading Bucket: Designed with a smooth cutting edge, the grading bucket is excellent for precision grading and leveling.
  2. Hydraulic Thumb: A hydraulic thumb attachment provides the excavator with a powerful grip, allowing it to handle materials like rocks, logs, and debris with precision.
  3. Auger: The auger attachment is used for drilling holes, such as those needed for fence posts, tree planting, or foundational work. It comes in various sizes to accommodate different hole diameters.
  4. Breaker Hammer: This attachment is used for breaking up concrete, asphalt, or rock. It’s commonly used in demolition and construction applications.
  5. Tilt Bucket: A tilt bucket attachment can tilt left and right, enabling the excavator to work on slopes and angles without having to reposition the machine frequently.
  6. Quick Coupler: A quick coupler makes it easier to switch between various attachments quickly, reducing downtime and improving overall efficiency on the job site.
  7. Ripper: The ripper attachment is used for breaking up hard soil, roots, and compacted material. It’s often used in agricultural and landscaping applications.
  8. Plate Compactor: This attachment is used for compacting soil, gravel, or asphalt. It’s commonly used in roadwork and pavement projects.
  9. Grapple: A grapple attachment is useful for picking up and moving debris, logs, and other materials. It’s often used in forestry and land clearing applications.
  10. Tree Shear: Ideal for forestry and land management, a tree shear attachment can cut down and remove trees efficiently.
  11. Pallet Forks: Pallet forks allow the excavator to handle pallets, logs, and other materials. They are often used in construction and agricultural settings.
  12. Vibratory Plate: Used for compacting soil or gravel, a vibratory plate attachment provides powerful compaction capabilities.
  13. Broom Attachment: Broom attachments are used for sweeping and cleaning surfaces, making them useful for maintaining roadways and parking lots.
  14. Bucket Thumb: Similar to a hydraulic thumb, a bucket thumb attachment allows for better control and gripping of materials when using the bucket for digging or material handling.

It’s important to note that the availability of these attachments may vary depending on your location and the dealership you work with.

When selecting attachments for your Kubota KX018-4, it’s essential to choose the ones that best suit your specific job requirements.

Additionally, ensure that your machine’s hydraulic system is compatible with the chosen attachments and that you receive proper training in their safe and efficient use.

Kubota KX018-4 Weight

  • Operating Weight: 3,747 lbs with canopy / 3,967 lbs with cab
  • Weight: 1.795t (3,947 lbs) for the KX018-4 G model
  • Operating Weight – Canopy: 1,695 kg (3,747 lbs)

The operating weight of the machine is 3,747 lbs, including the operator’s weight of 175 lbs. Therefore, to determine the weight of the Kubota KX018-4 without the operator’s weight, we need to subtract 175 lbs from the operating weight.

The weight of the Kubota KX018-4 without the operator’s weight is approximately 3,572 lbs (3,747 lbs – 175 lbs). It’s important to note that the weight may vary depending on the model and configuration of the machine.

Weight Limit for Kubota KX018-4 when lifting objects

The Kubota KX018-4 lifting capacity varies depending on the weight of the load. The lifting capacity is based on ISO 10567 and does not exceed 75% of the static tilt load of the machine or 87% of the hydraulic lifting capacities of the machine.

The hydraulic system automatically regulates and distributes the optimum amount of oil to each cylinder, based on the weight of the load for smooth, responsive, and stable lifting capacity and overall operation

The Kubota KX018-4 is designed to handle heavy loads, and its lifting capacity can be increased with the use of a variety of Kubota attachments.

Kubota  KX018-4 Lift Capacity

The lift capacity of the Kubota KX018-4:
  • The lifting capacity of the Kubota KX018-4 varies depending on the weight of the load
  • The lifting capacity is based on ISO 10567 and does not exceed 75% of the static tilt load of the machine or 87% of the hydraulic lifting capacities of the machine
  • The hydraulic system of the KX018-4 is designed to automatically regulate and distribute the optimum amount of oil to each cylinder, based on the weight of the load for smooth, responsive, and stable lifting capacity and overall operation
  • The KX018-4’s superior stability is due to its long tumbler distance and wide variable track width, which enables you to safely perform jobs using a host of Kubota attachments. And Kubota’s unique hydraulic system, together with a powerful boom cylinder, delivers the lifting power you need to broaden your range of lifting jobs.

Kubota KX018-4 Operation

Kubota has paid meticulous attention to operator comfort and control when designing the KX018-4. The spacious and ergonomic cabin is designed to reduce operator fatigue during long working hours.

The adjustable suspension seat, ample legroom, and intuitive control layout ensure that operators can focus on their work without distractions.

The KX018-4 also features a digital panel that provides essential information at a glance, including fuel level, engine temperature, and service reminders. This allows operators to stay on top of maintenance schedules and keep the machine in peak operating condition.

Benefits

  • Versatility: The KX018-4 is a versatile machine that can be used for a wide range of applications, including digging, trenching, and landscaping
  • Efficiency: The powerful engine and hydraulic system of the KX018-4 provide high performance and efficiency, allowing the operator to get more work done in less time
  • Comfort: The large cab and adjustable seating of the KX018-4 provide a comfortable working environment for the operator, reducing fatigue and increasing productivity
  • Ease of Use: The digital display and intuitive controls of the KX018-4 make it easy for the operator to monitor and control the machine’s performance
  • Reliability: Kubota is known for producing high-quality machines that are reliable and durable. The KX018-4 is no exception, with a reputation for long-lasting performance.

Ease of Maintenance

Maintenance is a critical aspect of any construction equipment, and the Kubota KX018-4 has been engineered with this in mind.

The machine’s engine compartment is designed for easy access, making daily maintenance checks and servicing a straightforward process.

The central grease point and easily replaceable filters further simplify routine maintenance tasks, reducing downtime and ensuring that the machine remains productive.

Kubota KX018-4 Parts and Parts Diagram

Some of the most common parts include:

  • Engine: The engine is the heart of the excavator and is responsible for powering the hydraulic system. The Kubota KX018-4 is equipped with a Kubota D902 3-cylinder diesel engine.
  • Hydraulic system: The hydraulic system is responsible for powering the excavator’s boom, arm, and bucket. The Kubota KX018-4 has a variable displacement hydraulic pump that allows it to deliver the right amount of power to the hydraulic system, depending on the task at hand.
  • Undercarriage: The undercarriage is the chassis of the excavator and is responsible for supporting the weight of the machine and providing traction. The Kubota KX018-4 has a retractable undercarriage that allows it to fit through narrow openings and work in confined spaces.
  • Cab: The cab is where the operator sits and controls the excavator. The Kubota KX018-4 has a spacious and comfortable cab with a fully adjustable seat, air conditioning, and a digital display.

Parts diagrams and lists are typically provided by the manufacturer or authorized dealerships. To obtain detailed parts information and diagrams for the Kubota KX018-4, you should consider the following steps:

  1. Kubota Official Website: Visit the official Kubota website and navigate to the “Parts” or “Service” section. Manufacturers often provide access to parts catalogs, manuals, and diagrams for their equipment.
  2. Authorized Kubota Dealer: Contact an authorized Kubota dealership or service center in your area. They can often provide you with parts diagrams, lists, and assistance in ordering specific parts for your Kubota KX018-4.
  3. Operator’s Manual: Check the operator’s manual that came with your Kubota KX018-4. It may contain information about parts, part numbers, and maintenance procedures, which can be helpful when ordering replacement parts.
  4. Online Parts Retailers: There are online retailers and marketplaces that specialize in heavy equipment parts. You may find parts diagrams and listings for the Kubota KX018-4 on these platforms. Be sure to have the specific model and serial number of your machine when searching for parts.
  5. Kubota Parts Lookup Tools: Some Kubota dealerships and websites offer online parts lookup tools where you can enter your equipment’s model and serial number to find the exact parts you need.
  6. Service Manuals: Service manuals for the Kubota KX018-4 often contain detailed parts diagrams and lists. You can inquire about obtaining a service manual from Kubota or an authorized dealer.

When ordering parts for your Kubota KX018-4, it’s essential to provide accurate information about the specific model, serial number, and the part numbers you require.

This ensures that you receive the correct parts for your machine.

Additionally, if you are not familiar with equipment maintenance and repair, it’s advisable to seek the assistance of a qualified technician or Kubota service center to ensure that parts are installed correctly and safely.

Durability and Build Quality

Kubota is known for its commitment to quality and durability, and the KX018-4 is no exception. The excavator’s rugged construction and high-quality components are built to withstand the rigors of the job site, ensuring a long service life. Whether you’re working in rocky terrain or muddy conditions, the KX018-4 is designed to keep going, day in and day out.

Kubota KX018 Attachments

One of the key advantages of compact excavators like the Kubota KX018-4 is their compatibility with a wide range of attachments.

Kubota offers a variety of buckets, augers, and hydraulic thumbs that can be easily attached to the KX018-4, enhancing its versatility and allowing it to tackle different tasks.

Whether you need to dig trenches, break concrete, or move heavy materials, the KX018-4 can be customized to meet your specific needs.

  1. Buckets:
    • Standard Excavator Bucket: Used for general digging, trenching, and material handling tasks.
    • Ditching Bucket: Designed for creating ditches and grading work.
    • Grading Bucket: Equipped with a smooth cutting edge for precise grading and leveling.
  2. Hydraulic Thumb: Provides a powerful grip to handle materials like rocks, logs, and debris with precision.
  3. Auger: Used for drilling holes, such as those needed for fence posts, tree planting, or foundational work. Augers come in various sizes to accommodate different hole diameters.
  4. Breaker Hammer: Ideal for breaking up concrete, asphalt, or rock. Commonly used in demolition and construction applications.
  5. Tilt Bucket: Allows the excavator to work on slopes and angles without frequent repositioning.
  6. Quick Coupler: Makes it easier to switch between various attachments quickly, reducing downtime and improving overall efficiency.
  7. Ripper: Used for breaking up hard soil, roots, and compacted material. Often employed in agricultural and landscaping applications.
  8. Plate Compactor: Designed for compacting soil, gravel, or asphalt. Used in roadwork and pavement projects.
  9. Grapple: Enables the excavator to pick up and move debris, logs, and other materials. Commonly used in forestry and land clearing.
  10. Tree Shear: Suitable for forestry and land management tasks, including cutting down and removing trees.
  11. Pallet Forks: Used for handling pallets, logs, and other materials in construction and agricultural settings.
  12. Vibratory Plate: Provides powerful compaction capabilities for soil or gravel.
  13. Broom Attachment: Used for sweeping and cleaning surfaces, making it valuable for maintaining roadways and parking lots.
  14. Bucket Thumb: Similar to a hydraulic thumb, a bucket thumb attachment improves control and grip when using the bucket for digging or material handling.

Kubota KX018-4 Thumb

The Kubota KX018-4 thumb, also known as a hydraulic thumb or excavator thumb attachment, is a valuable accessory that enhances the versatility and functionality of the Kubota KX018-4 compact excavator. Here’s what you need to know about this attachment:

What is a Kubota KX018-4 Thumb?

A thumb attachment for the Kubota KX018-4 is a hydraulic device that is installed on the excavator’s arm, near the bucket. It consists of two fingers or prongs that can be controlled hydraulically to open and close.

The thumb attachment allows the excavator operator to grasp, lift, and manipulate various objects and materials with precision, such as rocks, logs, pipes, and debris.

Key Benefits of a Kubota KX018-4 Thumb:

  1. Enhanced Material Handling: With a thumb attachment, the Kubota KX018-4 can pick up and move materials that would be difficult to manage with just the bucket. This is especially useful in tasks like site cleanup, land clearing, and forestry work.
  2. Improved Precision: The hydraulic thumb provides precise control over the gripping force and position of the fingers, allowing the operator to handle objects delicately or with a firmer grip, depending on the task.
  3. Versatility: The thumb attachment can be used in various applications, including loading and unloading trucks, arranging materials, and positioning objects with accuracy.
  4. Reduced Downtime: It eliminates the need for the operator to exit the cab and manually handle materials, which can save time and increase efficiency on the job site.
  5. Increased Safety: By providing better control over materials, a thumb attachment enhances job site safety by reducing the risk of accidents and damage to equipment.
  6. Compatible with Other Attachments: The thumb attachment can work in conjunction with other attachments like buckets and grapples, further expanding the machine’s capabilities.

Considerations When Using a Thumb Attachment:

  1. Proper Installation: Ensure that the thumb attachment is correctly installed and securely fastened to the excavator’s arm. It should also be properly connected to the hydraulic system for safe and effective operation.
  2. Operator Training: The operator should be trained in the use of the thumb attachment to operate it safely and efficiently.
  3. Load Limits: Be aware of the Kubota KX018-4’s load capacity and avoid exceeding its limits when using the thumb attachment to prevent accidents or damage to the machine.
  4. Maintenance: Regularly inspect and maintain the thumb attachment, including hydraulic components, to ensure it functions correctly.

The Kubota KX018-4 thumb attachment is a valuable tool for expanding the capabilities of this compact excavator, making it suitable for a wider range of applications and increasing productivity on the job site. When considering a thumb attachment, be sure to consult with your Kubota dealer for compatibility and installation options specific to your machine.

Applications

The Kubota KX018-4 finds applications across various industries and job sites, thanks to its compact size and versatile performance. Some common applications include:

  1. Landscaping: The KX018-4 is perfect for landscaping projects, such as digging trenches for irrigation systems, grading, and tree planting. Its compact size allows it to work in confined spaces, making it ideal for residential landscaping jobs.
  2. Construction: On construction sites, the KX018-4 can be used for digging foundations, trenches, and footings. Its manoeuvrability is especially beneficial in urban environments with limited space.
  3. Utility Work: When it comes to utility work, such as laying water and sewer lines, the KX018-4’s digging capabilities and precision are a significant advantage. Its small footprint is well-suited for working around existing infrastructure.
  4. Agriculture: Farmers and agricultural workers can benefit from the KX018-4’s versatility in tasks like digging irrigation ditches, clearing debris, and digging holes for planting.
  5. Demolition: Equipped with the right attachments, the KX018-4 can also be used for demolition tasks, such as breaking up concrete or removing structures.
  6. Site preparation: The Kubota KX018-4 can be used to prepare sites for construction projects, including clearing land, excavating trenches, and digging foundations.

Kubota KX018-4 Maximum Digging Depth

The maximum digging depth of the Kubota KX018-4 compact excavator is approximately 7.8 feet (2.4 meters) when using the standard digging arm and bucket configuration.

This digging depth can vary slightly depending on factors such as the specific arm length and any attachments that may be installed on the machine.

It’s important to note that the Kubota KX018-4 is a versatile machine, and its digging depth can be influenced by the choice of attachments and configurations.

For precise digging depth information for your specific machine setup, it is recommended to consult the operator’s manual provided by Kubota or reach out to a Kubota dealership for accurate details related to your equipment.

Kubota KX018-4 Bucket Capacity

The bucket capacity of the Kubota KX018-4 compact excavator can vary depending on the specific bucket size and configuration you choose for the machine. Kubota typically offers a range of bucket sizes and types to suit various digging and material handling needs. Here are some common bucket sizes and their approximate capacities for the Kubota KX018-4:

  • 12-inch (30 cm) Bucket: This is a standard-sized bucket for the KX018-4, and it has an approximate capacity of around 0.05 cubic yards (0.04 cubic meters) of material.
  • 18-inch (45 cm) Bucket: A larger bucket option, the 18-inch bucket, can hold approximately 0.09 cubic yards (0.07 cubic meters) of material.
  • 24-inch (61 cm) Bucket: The 24-inch bucket offers even greater capacity, holding approximately 0.14 cubic yards (0.11 cubic meters) of material.
  • Additional Bucket Sizes: Kubota may offer other bucket sizes as well, depending on your specific needs. Smaller buckets for precision work or larger buckets for more significant excavation tasks may be available.

Please note that these are approximate capacities, and actual bucket capacities can vary depending on factors such as the shape of the bucket and the type of material being excavated.

When selecting a bucket size for your Kubota KX018-4, consider the type of work you will be doing and choose a bucket that suits your project requirements.

It’s also important to operate the machine within its recommended load and capacity limits to ensure safe and efficient operation.

Kubota KX018-4 Oil Capacity

The oil capacity of the Kubota KX018-4 compact excavator depends on the specific hydraulic system components and the configuration of the machine:

  1. Hydraulic System: The Kubota KX018-4 typically uses hydraulic oil for its hydraulic system, which includes the boom, arm, bucket, and other hydraulic components. The hydraulic oil capacity for the machine can range from approximately 9 to 12 gallons (34 to 45 liters) or more, depending on the machine’s configuration and options.
  2. Engine Oil: The engine oil capacity for the Kubota KX018-4, powered by a Kubota D902-E4 engine, is typically around 2.1 to 2.4 gallons (8 to 9 liters), including the oil filter.
  3. Final Drive Oil: The final drive components of the machine may require separate oil. The capacity for final drive oil can vary, so it’s essential to consult your operator’s manual or the manufacturer’s specifications for the exact volume required.
  4. Travel Motor and Swing Motor Oil: Like the final drive, the travel motor and swing motor may have separate oil reservoirs, and their capacities can vary based on the machine’s configuration. Refer to the operator’s manual for precise information.
  5. Other Lubrication Points: The Kubota KX018-4 may have additional lubrication points, such as for the track rollers and idlers. These points may require specific lubricants, and their capacities can vary based on the machine’s design.

Kubota KX018-4 Battery Location

The battery on the Kubota KX018-4 compact excavator is typically located in the engine compartment. To access the battery and perform maintenance or replace it, you can follow these general steps:

  1. Safety Precautions: Before working on the battery or any electrical components, ensure that the machine is turned off, and the ignition key is removed. This is crucial to prevent electrical accidents.
  2. Open the Engine Compartment: Depending on the configuration of your specific KX018-4 model, you may need to open the engine compartment hood or cover to access the battery.
  3. Locate the Battery: Once the engine compartment is open, you should be able to locate the battery. The battery is typically secured in a battery tray or box.
  4. Battery Terminals: Identify the battery terminals, which are usually two posts: one positive (+) and one negative (-). Be cautious when working with the battery to avoid short circuits or electrical shock.
  5. Maintenance or Replacement: Depending on your specific maintenance needs, you may need to remove the battery for cleaning, charging, or replacement. To do this, first disconnect the negative (-) terminal and then the positive (+) terminal. Remove any securing brackets or straps, and carefully lift the battery out of its compartment.
  6. Installation: When installing a new battery or reinstalling the existing one, ensure it is properly secured in the battery tray or box. Connect the positive (+) terminal first and then the negative (-) terminal. Make sure the connections are tight and secure.
  7. Close Engine Compartment: After completing the battery maintenance or replacement, close and secure the engine compartment hood or cover.

Summary

The Kubota KX018-4 is a testament to Kubota’s commitment to innovation and quality in the construction equipment industry.

This compact excavator offers a winning combination of power, versatility, operator comfort, and durability, making it a top choice for contractors and operators in need of a reliable and efficient machine.

Whether you’re working on residential landscaping projects or tackling larger construction tasks, the KX018-4 proves that big performance can come in small packages.

Its ease of maintenance and compatibility with various attachments further enhance its value, making it an indispensable asset on the job site.

The Kubota KX018-4 is a game-changer, redefining what contractors can expect from a compact excavator, and it’s sure to continue making a significant impact in the industry for years to come.