Understand the specs

What the numbers on a spec sheet actually mean for the work you do, and how the Rippa range compares.

Specifications · 3 min

Mini Excavator Tonnage Classes Explained: 0.7 t to 8 t

What "1.8 tonne" or "3.2 tonne" really means, why operating weight matters more than anything else on the spec sheet, and where each Rippa c...

Engines & hydraulics · 3 min

Auxiliary Hydraulics and Flow Rates: What Powers Your Attachments

Breakers, augers, tilt buckets and grapples all run off the auxiliary circuit. Flow and pressure decide which attachments work well and whic...

Specifications · 3 min

Dig Depth, Reach and Dump Height: The Three Numbers That Decide the Job

Maximum dig depth is the headline figure, but reach and dump height decide whether you can load a trailer or dig a footing from where the ma...

Engines & hydraulics · 3 min

The Engines in the Rippa Range: Kubota, Briggs & Stratton, Yanmar

Most Rippa excavators and skid steers run Kubota diesels, but not all of them. Here is which engine sits in which model, what the codes mean...

Buying decisions · 3 min

Mini Excavator vs Skid Steer vs Backhoe: Which Machine for Which Work

Excavators dig, loaders move and backhoes do both badly. A plain comparison of the three machine types for property owners and small contrac...

Undercarriage · 2 min

Rubber Tracks vs Steel Tracks on Compact Machines

Rubber tracks protect driveways and lawns and are standard on mini excavators for good reason. Steel still wins in rock and on demolition si...

Specifications · 3 min

Skid Steer Rated Operating Capacity: Why 600 kg Doesn't Mean 600 kg

Rated load, tipping load and lift capacity are three different numbers. Knowing the difference stops you buying a loader that can't lift the...

Specifications · 3 min

Zero Tail Swing vs Conventional Excavators: What You Gain and Give Up

Zero tail swing keeps the counterweight inside the track width so you can slew against a wall. It also changes stability, lifting and price....