Used Kubota U55 Excavator

The Kubota U55 has an operating weight of approximately 5,500 kg (12,125 lbs) . Depending on optional attachments (e.g., a larger bucket, hydraulic thumb, or cab with AC), the weight can reach up to 5,715 kg (12,600 lbs) .

Why this matters for buyers:

• Transportation: At 5.5 tons, the U55 sits in a “goldilocks” zone. It is heavy enough to provide exceptional stability during deep digging but light enough to be transported on a 7.5-ton GVW truck without requiring special heavy-haul permits in most regions.

• Commercial Value: In the used market, machines at this weight class have the highest resale liquidity because they fit standard tow trucks and are legal for road transport without escort vehicles.

When searching for a used Kubota U55, you will primarily encounter two variants. The table below breaks down the key specifications:

Verdict for used buyers:
The U55-5 is the superior choice for long-term ownership. It offers better fuel efficiency and a more comfortable operator environment. However, the U55-4 is often available at a 15-20% lower price point in the used market and is mechanically simpler (no DPF on some markets), making it cheaper to maintain in regions with less strict emission enforcement.

Yes, the Kubota U55 features a short-tail swing design. While it is often marketed as “zero tail swing” (ZTS), strictly speaking, it has a tight tail swing with minimal rear overhang.

• Boom Swing Function: Unlike many competitors, the U55 allows the boom to pivot ±90 degrees left or right independently of the house rotation . This allows operators to dig parallel to walls or tracks (offset digging) without repositioning the entire machine—critical for trenching along foundations or highways.

• Working Data: The machine offers a maximum digging reach of 5,945 mm (19′ 6″) and a depth of 3,615 mm (11′ 11″) . This high reach-to-weight ratio is why the U55 is preferred over standard backhoes for landscaping.

Based on service manuals and owner forums, there are three specific areas to check on a used U55 before purchase:

1. Hydraulic Pilot Filter: Owners report that low hydraulic power is often traced to a blocked pilot filter located in the “blue housing” near the control valves. If the previous owner neglected the hydraulic oil schedule, this filter clogs, causing sluggish swing and track speed .

2. Cooler Fins: The hydraulic cooler and radiator are stacked within 25-30mm of each other. Debris (leaves, mud) trapped between them is a leading cause of overheating. Inspection tip: Shine a flashlight through the rear grill to check for debris between the cores .

3. Track Adjusters: Given the 5.5-ton weight, ensure the rubber tracks (standard width 400mm) have proper tension. Loose tracks on the U55 are a common sign of worn final drive seals.

The Kubota U55 is classified as a 5.5-ton compact excavator with 29.5 kN to 40.9 kN of bucket digging force . It is excellent for general construction, demolition, and landscaping, but it is not a dedicated forestry machine.

Performance Data:

• Gradeability: 30° / 58°, meaning it can handle steep slopes effectively [U20 format standard].

• Engine Power: The 2.615L engine provides 35.5kW to 40kW, giving it enough grunt for a 0.14m³ to 0.22m³ bucket (standard) .

• Limitation: It lacks the heavy guarding (falling object protection, belly pans) found on dedicated forestry excavators like the Kubota KX-5 series. For land clearing (grapple work and stump removal), it performs well. For logging trails, look for a “Forestry Package” upgrade.