A mini-ex was the single best purchase I ever made for my 11ac homestead. It has been my right hand for for so many tasks. I've used it more for picking up and moving things than I have for digging holes! It allowed me to build a mini cabin by myself. The most challenging part was installing a huge set of french doors that it took 4 people to load into the back of the truck. A little rigging and patience and I set the doors myself with no damage. I couldn't imagine not having my little Taco 235 now. And mine had its first life in a rental fleet. I bought it at a much lower than new price. She is now living her best life and is no longer being mistreated by strangers. :)
Mine is a full cab with thumb so it was a little more. It was $29k about 3 years ago. It was retired from United Rentals out of Greensboro NC. It had 2k hours on it.
I'm glad you got the 304 Mike. It's definitely a lot more handy than the 555. But you're correct, with a little more time and different approaches to your problem. You have been getting everything done with your 555 and 755. The 304 is a luxury item that you definitely deserve.
Need? No. Blessed if you are fortunate enough to have one? Yes!! You have demonstrated over and over what can get done with just hard work. An excavator just makes it less hard.
Good plan on the 304. You need one with all the projects, present and future. It is an investment in your body, doing the heavy lifting. Also time saved, which is a valuable intangible for a busy guy, like the Captain.
I have 55 acres. With a backhoe you can get by without it. But, everything will take longer and be more frustrating. When I bought my 50hp tractor I intentionally didn't buy the backhoe attachment for $10k because I knew I wanted to use that money on a mini excavator. After I picked up my mini-excavator I've never had such an easy time managing irrigation, digging footings for my garage, clearing brush, trenching for my solar array and downing trees. The money I saved on the backhoe attachment was well spent in the excavator. I now have a mini-skid for when my tractor is too big and I recently picked up a 1980's D2 finish dozer that's perfect for my land. I'll never need to buy another machine.
Well, I'm 3 days late watching this episode because I've been shopping for Thanksgiving day groceries and Christmas items including gufts for my Bebita Wife Maria but I finally got some me Sunday time to get caught up on my favorite TH-cam channels. Awesome job getting the property cleaned up, TH-cam Yacht sewer line cleared and other items checked off Captain. Your explanation on a mini was interesting and it cleared up the issues subscribers have been asking. It's always nice when channel owners do that for their subscribers. I hope you get more sponsors to help you get the gunds to pay for the various projects you're working on so we subscribers can continue enjoying your episodes.
Happy that you called out the homestead channels that are 'roughing it' running around in $60,000+ worth of machinery. You earned that 304 with your 755 and 555! Videos are work too. Glad to see you able to get more done with the new-to-you machine. Keep up the good work, and hope you can wrap up what you want prior to winter settling in.
I'm in a little different stage in life than you but I justify my most recent purchase by saying "I don't play golf, I don't have a fishing boat or motorcycle, and I don't hunt; so my purchase is something I wanted and have thoroughly enjoyed.
Yep, the homesteading channels with 2 tractors, a backhoe and a mini-ex who are obligated to mention their affiliation 5 times every video. I’m not going to call them phony, just owned. I’m happy that your pay-to-own arrangement with DP is working out for you as it definitely saves you time and unnecessary wear and tear on your 755 and 555. Stay safe Captain.
just add a few spacers on that bucket. It rattling out there on the end of the boom drives the OCD in me crazy. Haha. It's your soon-to-be machine so prioritize your needs. Love the progress!
I'm happy to hear you're getting the excavator. Getting it from someone you know well is a HUGE bonus. And I think it's great that you were up front about "No you don't have to have one, it just makes things easier." As always, thanks for sharing!
Hi Mike. I worked part time in a junk yard when I was in high school. The guys that owned the yard were all fire fighters, like you, with a 3 day on, 3 day off schedule. I always think of them whenever I see you burning a brush pile because those guys set everything on fire, even the wrecker! Nothing ever got out of control, no one ever got hurt and they took their sweet time putting out the fires that they started. We cut gas tanks out of cars with a torch! A mini ex is definitely a luxury item but dang, you can get a lot of work done with one. Same with a skid steer. Fortunately, you can rent that type of big equipment when you need it or rent to buy, like you are doing. Neil's pond is spectacular!
I bought a 305 a year ago, not a week goes by that we don't use it on the farm, and like you we have other pieces of equipment to use. It's just another tool in the toolbox. Have a great week Capt.....
Hey Mike, your property already looks beautiful but with the ridiculous amount of effort you’re putting in it’s gonna be premium property 👍 Just a suggestion but I would love to see a “ Mikes leisure time “ video where we get to see you fishing on your pond !? Excellent as always, best wishes from Britain 👍👍❤️🇬🇧🇺🇸🇬🇧🇺🇸
Thanks for NOT being one of those channels that throws hundred's of thousands of $ of machines (usually orange ones) in our faces and then acting like that's normal for a property owner. I would love to own a mini ex myself but it's just beyond excessive for my needs.
I never seen a man dig up so many gold nuggets and the have the audacity to line his pond with them! 😂😂😂. Mike, clean up looks great and the place is coming along nicely. Can't wait for the TH-cam yacht series to start back up.
Goodmorning Mike, I'll just selectively mute the audio when you're talking about the need to have a mini ex, and i rewatch this later when the boss is home... I've been saying for a while now that i NEED one, and up to this point, your videos have been helping my case... You are entitled to your opinion, even if it's wrong (I'm obviously joking). A mini ex IS basically a legal requirement on homesteads over 15 acres in my neck of the woods... just like going 10 over the speed limit... or it worked when i did my pre trip...😂 Have a good one!
We would all love a brand new shiny mini excavator! People watching tend to think anyone with some success on YT has mega bucks to throw at projects. I'm stuck with the clapped out machine category and hope find a fixer upper someday, though it will come at the expense of fixing all the broken pieces / parts. Keep on working Mike! 👍😁
I like that - "Welcome to Kleeman's Quarry where we go bobbing for boulders!" - and yeah, you need an excavator on your homestead... probably a bigger one than you have there.
Mike, the best tool i have ever purchased is my excavator period. I have saved tens of thousands of dollars by doing the work myself, and I can still sell it for more than what I payed for it. We manage our 11 wooded acres, and do everything from trenching, to tree maintenance, to clearing and even grading for a new building. (future builds are two ponds) There are so many things we can do with it that would take me weeks to complete otherwise. That being said, there are two things I would do differently and one would be getting a 6 ton excavator over the one I got(which I love), and instead of getting a tractor, I would get a tracked skid steer. The implements that can be purchased are way more flexible than the 3 point attachments I have for my tractor. I own a 1986 Kubota KX101 with the extend-a-hoe arm, (4 ton) so I can dig 10 feet deep holes, which was one of my requirements when looking. I took it over a Hitachi 150 at the time which was a bit big, but a nice 6-10 ton machine would have been fine. IMO, When you get much bigger it really limits what you can do with it without special equipment to haul it, or even matts for managing soft ground (I made my own). I can tow mine with an F150 or 1500 if needed. Both my neighbors have used it in the past, and it has been a great tool. I do not plan on selling it anytime soon. So, for anyone considering getting one, do it, but get bigger than you think you will need. I would say that no smaller than a 3 ton, and nothing bigger than a 12 ton at the max. (it depends on what you will be doing with it, and what attachments you want to run) (high flow) Hammer, mower, etc...) OH, a thumb is a must! do not get one without a thumb, or plan to add the thumb. (I added the thumb, but that limited my extend a hoe function) I am currently looking for a new boom without the extend a hoe so I can add the hydraulic thumb. So about the time it is setup perfectly I will sell it.. just like life. LOL
Man, you have really cleaned up the woods since i last watched!! Doesn’t look like a jungle anymore! I am officially envious of those rocks! I’m surprised you used smoking stumps on wet leaves.
I think those glass seeds are challenging to get growth from, but they do seem to spontaneously clone themselves into all manner of nooks and crannies in the surrounding areas.... Enjoyed the video as always, have a good one!!👍
Back in the day before excavators were as numerous as they are now when I bought my first small farm half clear and half woods I needed something to grub out and clear wood and do dirt work. I bought a 450 John Deere highlift or track loader as some call it. It was a life saver as much work I done with it. I worked for a dirt moving company that had dozers, scrapers, highlift, a backhoe and grader. So as far as knowing what I was doing I had a minute or two as a operator. Put about 3 grand in the machine and hired myself out and made a few dollars and sold it for more money than I bought if for a few years later. I still miss having the machine and could use it today for things I would like to do around the place I have now.
I got rid of my tractors. A tracked skid steer and track loader is all I need. The range of attachments is fantastic. Brush hog on the skid steer is so much easier than when on a tractor. Put one on a mini-ex and you can cut the steepest banks and reduce the brush from downed trees in no time. Grapple, tilt bucket (I'm saving up for one), tiller, roller, broom , etc. all make things so much easier.
In 2008 I priced weekly & monthly rental on one. Then I ran across a good used one, thinking I would sell it when done with my project. I still have it. Wouldn’t be without it.
Looking great, Mike.👌 💯% on the usefulness of the 304 and the expenses that go along with it. The maintenance alone is substantial, not to mention things like that lower front glass and any number of things that will happen while using that machine. Your partnership/arrangement with DP is definitely a big factor and a gigantic plus in both directions.🤙
Captain, I’ve got three excavators and would be lost without them. They are a great addition to a large property. Of course I use them in my business but wouldn’t be without them ever again.
An excavator like that may not be a, “you can not survive without it” but it an absolute must when you are making the types of improvements you are. It make you safer and more productive
It’s hard to argue against the usefulness of a mini excavator to help manage a few acres of property that includes a pond, trails, brush , etc. I bit the bullet several years ago and bought a used rental Kubota KH 41 with 2200 hours that bad pins and bushings and tracks that had seen better days. In spite of my suggestions to the family “corporation” over the years that it was time to sell the ME, I was always voted down - there were more jobs to be done by the ME and the “board” was right since I still have it 2000 hours later. Did the pins and bushings, replaced a few hoses, replaced the treads, one final drive and repacked a cylinder but all spread over a decade or more. All in all I’m pleased with my MB purchase decision and believe it justified the investment compared to contracting the 2000 hours I spent in the saddle plus the delivery charges for the contractor. In no way could. I justify a new ME. Mine now needs attention in a few areas but still gets the job done. I figure the ME and I will be ready to be buried about the same time. I believe the Cat ME you now use is a great size and with the angle blade and comfort cab very versatile and eliminates the need for the overweight elephant pinned to the rear of the 555. I have JD with 4 wheel drive and a fel which blows snow and mows the fields and moves soil, rock and mulch but the ME does the back hoe work and grading with the blade. I probably use the fel too much for grading and back dragging. Too much rambling in this too long a comment. Bottom line is don’t give up the pursuit of owing a ME!
I sometimes look at some of the projects you get involved and think a track hoe/ excavator would be a lot handier but then I think, ahhh, it comes to $$$$$$$$ and the “run with what ya brung” comes to mind. The 304 definitely gives you the ability to getter done and move on, that’s not a luxury, that’s a time saver, time saved is money made, just a thought. Thank you for the update, enjoy watching. Property is looking nice,
I was only able to obtain my equipment after my father in law passed away. As much as I wanted an excavator with more creature comforts I found one like new to suit my needs. I was able to purchase a brand new tractor with implements that has been needed on our homestead for several years. The mini excavator was definitely a want not a need but I plan to make money with it to justify the purchase. It would have definitely been cheaper to rent the machine vs the work I have done with it. However what I have done with the machine is not something a rental company would be okay with so it has pros and cons. I have had the older tractors but none with front loaders so I feel absolutely blessed and humbled to even be using much less owning the equipment I have. I'm a very long way off from having sponsors on my homestead channel, it's growing but ever so slowly. But i don't know if I'd want them. Using that stuff would be great but it is only temporary and it can be damaging if you are not able to purchase that equipment or tool. Make you desire things you can't otherwise get. Id rather stick to what I have. I only have a few more attachments I'd like to purchase in time. A 3pt tiller, maybe some farm implements like a plow or disc, a land plane, and a thumb for the excavator. I wish I could do half of what others do, but I started my channel for those like me, who can't. I love your content, I know you don't do how to videos, but there is a lot a person can learn from you none the less. It's important to be humble.
Cap’n avoiding anyone calling you a ‘whacker’… now that’s definitely a pro TH-camr move! A rock, a pond and a man with his Zebco… little by little you’re turning that place into a haven! Glad to see you’re getting back to the YT Yacht… I’m itching to pay the first rental!!!! There are times that I wish I had a Mini Ex… but, I can’t even justify all the toys I already have. The top half of the walls in my woodworking shop are covered with peg board. Tools and such are two deep on every peg… and, I’m out of room for more pegs. I have one wall with floor to ceiling cabinets filled with power hand tools… and yet, I have stuff that I don’t have storage for… I keep asking myself, “Do I need more tools?” And, mysteriously another one shows up!!! So, the answer is gonna have to be, “No, I don’t need a Mini Ex. There’s no place to peg it on my walls!”
Funny you mentioned that, I was thinking last week that I might put up another "peg board wall" in the shop here, since I was tired of digging through over-stuffed tool boxes to find tools I KNOW I have.
@ LOL… it’s a good idea when you start… but, once it starts to look like you have the walls totally wallpapered with stuff… it turns into ‘Where’s Waldo”!!
@@sassafrasvalley1939 Yeah, and what I really need is a way to find the tool I "was using 5 minutes ago." If you, or Captain Kleeman can develop that system, you'll make a fortune.
So what you're saying is......I definitely need a mini Ex and a Skid Steer for my 1 acre lot in suburban Chicagoland........ so be expecting a call from my wife to defend those statements......
Hello Mike, long time watcher, first contributor. I was very happy when you announced you were going to purchase the 304. Ive watched you do all those jobs with your other equipment and was amazed but also wishing you would purchase a mini and also a skid loader to help make the jobs easier. I have both a hitachi ex40 which is 22 years old and a bobcat 773 and they are awesome for me. Good luck in your future endeavors brother
Mike if it was me for the bottom glass that got broke. I believe I would have a piece of plexiglass cut for it probably a lot cheaper to than regular glass. An could handle a little smack here and there from a branch or other things. Either way just my opinion glad you got the opportunity to buy it from DP. Love the videos btw.
Thanks for the video Captain. Totally agree with you on the mini ex and definitely is useful for ya . Good iuck with the meeting you have and I'm excited to see some TH-cam Yacht action.👍👏💪
Captain everyone needs an excavator. Some just need it more than others. I have been known to rent one and dig lots of holes in my back yard so I can spend the next couple of months on the tractor just happily filling in the holes … lol Take care Brother and Stay Safe!!
Safer, faster, this is a good choice you have made. Get your Deere running and save the x for other things. Septic drain line ? Running straight to the pond ! Did I miss something about septic systems. I'm in the city so it all runs to the ocean that I do swim in now and then
Yes Mike I do understand it is a great machine to have, but for most of us, not really needed, in your case with the type of jobs your doing, I think it was good for you to have 😎😎👍👍🍮🍮❤
Hey Captain! Great Video! I've been doing the same thing on multiple properties. If you do this land Reclamation work I highly recommend a Screening bucket for the excavator. You can sort through so many materials and it acts like a big rake when cleaning up the woods! I got mine from #rhinox. Great vids! Thanks.
Ten thousand years from now, somebody is going to wonder across, " Kleeman's Stone Hedge, " and wonder, " What the help was he thinking? ". 😁😁😅😅😅😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 One slip of the magnet, and that camera is a junk of non usable plastic? Admiral, Captain, family, have a wonderful day.
You CAT 304 purchase on the rental pay plan is a necessity if you plan on building out you property per your plan. Not only are excavators versatile, they increase productivity exponentially.
I have a few pieces of old stove pipe that I keep around to stuff in the base of a burn pile then I can sit at a comfortable distance with the leaf blower
Kleeman Khronikles kontinue....so the Kleeman Quarry and Bucket Dentistry divisions of Kleeman Enterprises Worldwide were featured in today's program. And....aren't you a fireman? You looked like a trained professional around that burn pile. Good progress today and thanks for insights on future projects and the background on the mini....it's good to know the backstory on things. As always....great channel, great content.
Sorry,but you Do Need the 304 ,no ifs or buts about it. The work that you have done with it shows how important it is . With 20 acres of various conditions the ability to be capable of doing the tasks is important. Now watching you repair or refurbish the Backhoe is Admirable and enjoyable,the frustrating limited abilities ion your land prove how the Need for the 304 is clear. Imagine if you could claw back the time that you have spent on fixing, and the extra time required to get the jobs done but we're held up by limited traction,limited access, frustrating times that it was just stuck,all add up to lost time and taking you away from getting individual jobs completed . As I commented before you Need ,yes need a decent 50 or 60 HP 4x4 Tractor,loader and all the various attachments. A tractor that can tow a good tipping trailer to your various jobs on the land ,the ability to rotary hoe,box blade,posthole boring ,fertilizer spreading,spray tank ,water tank and pump,mowing or scrub cutting etc etc . If you bring efficiency to the game ,you may gain Time ,your body will thank you , remember that you're only Young Once . Need doesn't necessarily mean Greed ,it's part of the Working Smarter thinking ! Cheers
Nice to see you finish up a few of your catchup projects.making improvements every chance you get.place is changing day by day.great video as always,for the man of many talents.just keep on doing your thing.be safe.😎😎😎👍👍👍
Your right, anybody can do anything if they just put their mind to it and break things down into manageable tasks. But having an excavator works too! 😂
I think on your land the 304 is safer and faster .cost is more but so is your life. I am just very happy you have it. nice work captain. keep up the lafs. cheers.
Well technically speaking without TH-cam you wouldn't have been able to do the ford 555 either. It's not revenue driven but it is collaboration driven. Which in my opinion is better equity then the money.
Fire in the Wood!! Always Danger! It give the Mulcher. And the great Wood, as firewood for the Winter in the House. Then You dig out great Stone! A new Idea! For the Pond??? Then farther Wood to Pick, and make great Heap ! For the next Fire! 😱😱
so true but as time goes by Our old backs get tired and it becomes harder to get that get up and go like before, There really nice to have and in the long run, smile at those acks you have now. think of 10 years from now and just keep repairing your machine's, Lucky you very fortunate to half Dirt Perfect
Mike, was that weed burner a Harbor Freight purchase? They did a safety recall on their weed burners a few years back due to hose failure. You may be able to return yours for a replacement.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, ideas and videos. Sounds like it’s getting time for some line boring. Maybe C&C will lend you a setup since last I saw they had more than one to use. Now since it’s technically still a part of the DP line up does he pay you to do long term maintenance to it, obviously your on the hook for the glass, but does he contribute to fixing the floppy bucket syndrome since he helped make it. 😂 Looking forward to seeing what you have coming up even though it’s still a secret 🤫. Nice idea with the stone around the pond. Wishing you and your family the best.
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A man living in an inner city apartment needs an excavator, a child in a pram needs an excavator, owls need excavators.. you get the drift.
Lol
Every time you use it I have an urge to put some pins in it!😁
@@SouthernMedicRNI know right! That floppy slop on every swing kinda drives me nuts too! 👍🏻👌🏻🩹🛠️🔩🔧🦺🚜🏗️🚧🛢️
✊🏻🇺🇲🦅🇺🇲✊🏻
A mini-ex was the single best purchase I ever made for my 11ac homestead. It has been my right hand for for so many tasks. I've used it more for picking up and moving things than I have for digging holes! It allowed me to build a mini cabin by myself. The most challenging part was installing a huge set of french doors that it took 4 people to load into the back of the truck. A little rigging and patience and I set the doors myself with no damage.
I couldn't imagine not having my little Taco 235 now.
And mine had its first life in a rental fleet. I bought it at a much lower than new price. She is now living her best life and is no longer being mistreated by strangers. :)
I was looking at a TB230. It was a rental machine too. I am thinking I should go a little bigger and get a cab. Was yours in the $25,000.00 range?
Mine is a full cab with thumb so it was a little more. It was $29k about 3 years ago.
It was retired from United Rentals out of Greensboro NC. It had 2k hours on it.
Thank you! That helps.
I'm glad you got the 304 Mike. It's definitely a lot more handy than the 555. But you're correct, with a little more time and different approaches to your problem. You have been getting everything done with your 555 and 755. The 304 is a luxury item that you definitely deserve.
You have needed an excavator for a long time, I was very happy for you when you got one.
Mike glass comes from sand so you need to plant a grain of sand and then the glass will grow 🤣😂, great video Mike 👍👍👍👍👍
Need? No.
Blessed if you are fortunate enough to have one? Yes!!
You have demonstrated over and over what can get done with just hard work. An excavator just makes it less hard.
I like the 304 relaxed fit bucket. Very casual.
Good plan on the 304. You need one with all the projects, present and future. It is an investment in your body, doing the heavy lifting. Also time saved, which is a valuable intangible for a busy guy, like the Captain.
I have 55 acres. With a backhoe you can get by without it. But, everything will take longer and be more frustrating. When I bought my 50hp tractor I intentionally didn't buy the backhoe attachment for $10k because I knew I wanted to use that money on a mini excavator. After I picked up my mini-excavator I've never had such an easy time managing irrigation, digging footings for my garage, clearing brush, trenching for my solar array and downing trees. The money I saved on the backhoe attachment was well spent in the excavator. I now have a mini-skid for when my tractor is too big and I recently picked up a 1980's D2 finish dozer that's perfect for my land. I'll never need to buy another machine.
Well, I'm 3 days late watching this episode because I've been shopping for Thanksgiving day groceries and Christmas items including gufts for my Bebita Wife Maria but I finally got some me Sunday time to get caught up on my favorite TH-cam channels.
Awesome job getting the property cleaned up, TH-cam Yacht sewer line cleared and other items checked off Captain.
Your explanation on a mini was interesting and it cleared up the issues subscribers have been asking.
It's always nice when channel owners do that for their subscribers.
I hope you get more sponsors to help you get the gunds to pay for the various projects you're working on so we subscribers can continue enjoying your episodes.
I don't know, I think a mini excavator is a lot cheaper then hernia surgery! LOL
Happy that you called out the homestead channels that are 'roughing it' running around in $60,000+ worth of machinery. You earned that 304 with your 755 and 555! Videos are work too. Glad to see you able to get more done with the new-to-you machine. Keep up the good work, and hope you can wrap up what you want prior to winter settling in.
I'm in a little different stage in life than you but I justify my most recent purchase by saying "I don't play golf, I don't have a fishing boat or motorcycle, and I don't hunt; so my purchase is something I wanted and have thoroughly enjoyed.
Yep, the homesteading channels with 2 tractors, a backhoe and a mini-ex who are obligated to mention their affiliation 5 times every video. I’m not going to call them phony, just owned. I’m happy that your pay-to-own arrangement with DP is working out for you as it definitely saves you time and unnecessary wear and tear on your 755 and 555. Stay safe Captain.
Let's just be honest: Who doesn't need an Excavator on their Homestead? Love the fishing segments. Thanks for the great content.
It's a great addition to have. Hopefully the glass fairy shows up with the tooth fairy. The property is looking great. Stay safe
just add a few spacers on that bucket. It rattling out there on the end of the boom drives the OCD in me crazy. Haha. It's your soon-to-be machine so prioritize your needs. Love the progress!
I'm happy to hear you're getting the excavator. Getting it from someone you know well is a HUGE bonus. And I think it's great that you were up front about "No you don't have to have one, it just makes things easier." As always, thanks for sharing!
Hi Mike. I worked part time in a junk yard when I was in high school. The guys that owned the yard were all fire fighters, like you, with a 3 day on, 3 day off schedule. I always think of them whenever I see you burning a brush pile because those guys set everything on fire, even the wrecker! Nothing ever got out of control, no one ever got hurt and they took their sweet time putting out the fires that they started. We cut gas tanks out of cars with a torch! A mini ex is definitely a luxury item but dang, you can get a lot of work done with one. Same with a skid steer. Fortunately, you can rent that type of big equipment when you need it or rent to buy, like you are doing. Neil's pond is spectacular!
I bought a 305 a year ago, not a week goes by that we don't use it on the farm, and like you we have other pieces of equipment to use. It's just another tool in the toolbox. Have a great week Capt.....
Hey Mike, your property already looks beautiful but with the ridiculous amount of effort you’re putting in it’s gonna be premium property 👍 Just a suggestion but I would love to see a “ Mikes leisure time “ video where we get to see you fishing on your pond !? Excellent as always, best wishes from Britain 👍👍❤️🇬🇧🇺🇸🇬🇧🇺🇸
Thanks for NOT being one of those channels that throws hundred's of thousands of $ of machines (usually orange ones) in our faces and then acting like that's normal for a property owner. I would love to own a mini ex myself but it's just beyond excessive for my needs.
Good old fashion road flare works great
304 clean up 💪💪 Nicely done captain!!🤗🇺🇸
I never seen a man dig up so many gold nuggets and the have the audacity to line his pond with them! 😂😂😂. Mike, clean up looks great and the place is coming along nicely. Can't wait for the TH-cam yacht series to start back up.
"I heard it when i said it." Classic 🤣🤣
Goodmorning Mike, I'll just selectively mute the audio when you're talking about the need to have a mini ex, and i rewatch this later when the boss is home... I've been saying for a while now that i NEED one, and up to this point, your videos have been helping my case... You are entitled to your opinion, even if it's wrong (I'm obviously joking). A mini ex IS basically a legal requirement on homesteads over 15 acres in my neck of the woods... just like going 10 over the speed limit... or it worked when i did my pre trip...😂 Have a good one!
The old kitty kat is definitely helpful. 😊 🚜⚓️🛟
That 304 might soon need some bucket mechanism bushings and/or a line bore for all that hand-waving it does! Cool tool, Mike! Envious
We would all love a brand new shiny mini excavator! People watching tend to think anyone with some success on YT has mega bucks to throw at projects. I'm stuck with the clapped out machine category and hope find a fixer upper someday, though it will come at the expense of fixing all the broken pieces / parts. Keep on working Mike! 👍😁
I like that - "Welcome to Kleeman's Quarry where we go bobbing for boulders!" - and yeah, you need an excavator on your homestead... probably a bigger one than you have there.
Captain you’re making progress on all projects a little at a time! Thanks for sharing! Kevin
Mike, the best tool i have ever purchased is my excavator period. I have saved tens of thousands of dollars by doing the work myself, and I can still sell it for more than what I payed for it. We manage our 11 wooded acres, and do everything from trenching, to tree maintenance, to clearing and even grading for a new building. (future builds are two ponds) There are so many things we can do with it that would take me weeks to complete otherwise. That being said, there are two things I would do differently and one would be getting a 6 ton excavator over the one I got(which I love), and instead of getting a tractor, I would get a tracked skid steer. The implements that can be purchased are way more flexible than the 3 point attachments I have for my tractor. I own a 1986 Kubota KX101 with the extend-a-hoe arm, (4 ton) so I can dig 10 feet deep holes, which was one of my requirements when looking. I took it over a Hitachi 150 at the time which was a bit big, but a nice 6-10 ton machine would have been fine. IMO, When you get much bigger it really limits what you can do with it without special equipment to haul it, or even matts for managing soft ground (I made my own). I can tow mine with an F150 or 1500 if needed. Both my neighbors have used it in the past, and it has been a great tool. I do not plan on selling it anytime soon. So, for anyone considering getting one, do it, but get bigger than you think you will need. I would say that no smaller than a 3 ton, and nothing bigger than a 12 ton at the max. (it depends on what you will be doing with it, and what attachments you want to run) (high flow) Hammer, mower, etc...) OH, a thumb is a must! do not get one without a thumb, or plan to add the thumb. (I added the thumb, but that limited my extend a hoe function) I am currently looking for a new boom without the extend a hoe so I can add the hydraulic thumb. So about the time it is setup perfectly I will sell it.. just like life. LOL
Man, you have really cleaned up the woods since i last watched!! Doesn’t look like a jungle anymore! I am officially envious of those rocks! I’m surprised you used smoking stumps on wet leaves.
I think those glass seeds are challenging to get growth from, but they do seem to spontaneously clone themselves into all manner of nooks and crannies in the surrounding areas.... Enjoyed the video as always, have a good one!!👍
The trail is shaping up nicely. I can hardly wait until the next video. Thanks for sharing 👏 😊
Back in the day before excavators were as numerous as they are now when I bought my first small farm half clear and half woods I needed something to grub out and clear wood and do dirt work. I bought a 450 John Deere highlift or track loader as some call it. It was a life saver as much work I done with it. I worked for a dirt moving company that had dozers, scrapers, highlift, a backhoe and grader. So as far as knowing what I was doing I had a minute or two as a operator. Put about 3 grand in the machine and hired myself out and made a few dollars and sold it for more money than I bought if for a few years later. I still miss having the machine and could use it today for things I would like to do around the place I have now.
You are awesome, Capt. the way you work that little machine. You sure get the most out of it.
Looking good.
Nice work , really love watching excavator work
I got rid of my tractors. A tracked skid steer and track loader is all I need. The range of attachments is fantastic. Brush hog on the skid steer is so much easier than when on a tractor. Put one on a mini-ex and you can cut the steepest banks and reduce the brush from downed trees in no time. Grapple, tilt bucket (I'm saving up for one), tiller, roller, broom , etc. all make things so much easier.
In 2008 I priced weekly & monthly rental on one. Then I ran across a good used one, thinking I would sell it when done with my project.
I still have it. Wouldn’t be without it.
Looking great, Mike.👌
💯% on the usefulness of the 304 and the expenses that go along with it. The maintenance alone is substantial, not to mention things like that lower front glass and any number of things that will happen while using that machine.
Your partnership/arrangement with DP is definitely a big factor and a gigantic plus in both directions.🤙
You absolutely need the 304. It -- like Michael Simon-- has become your trusted friend. 👍
Great advice on purchasing equipment, apply that to your life and you will live well people!
Captain, I’ve got three excavators and would be lost without them. They are a great addition to a large property. Of course I use them in my business but wouldn’t be without them ever again.
An excavator like that may not be a, “you can not survive without it” but it an absolute must when you are making the types of improvements you are. It make you safer and more productive
It’s hard to argue against the usefulness of a mini excavator to help manage a few acres of property that includes a pond, trails, brush , etc. I bit the bullet several years ago and bought a used rental Kubota KH 41 with 2200 hours that bad pins and bushings and tracks that had seen better days. In spite of my suggestions to the family “corporation” over the years that it was time to sell the ME, I was always voted down - there were more jobs to be done by the ME and the “board” was right since I still have it 2000 hours later. Did the pins and bushings, replaced a few hoses, replaced the treads, one final drive and repacked a cylinder but all spread over a decade or more. All in all I’m pleased with my MB purchase decision and believe it justified the investment compared to contracting the 2000 hours I spent in the saddle plus the delivery charges for the contractor. In no way could. I justify a new ME. Mine now needs attention in a few areas but still gets the job done. I figure the ME and I will be ready to be buried about the same time. I believe the Cat ME you now use is a great size and with the angle blade and comfort cab very versatile and eliminates the need for the overweight elephant pinned to the rear of the 555. I have JD with 4 wheel drive and a fel which blows snow and mows the fields and moves soil, rock and mulch but the ME does the back hoe work and grading with the blade. I probably use the fel too much for grading and back dragging. Too much rambling in this too long a comment. Bottom line is don’t give up the pursuit of owing a ME!
I sometimes look at some of the projects you get involved and think a track hoe/ excavator would be a lot handier but then I think, ahhh, it comes to $$$$$$$$ and the “run with what ya brung” comes to mind. The 304 definitely gives you the ability to getter done and move on, that’s not a luxury, that’s a time saver, time saved is money made, just a thought. Thank you for the update, enjoy watching. Property is looking nice,
I was only able to obtain my equipment after my father in law passed away. As much as I wanted an excavator with more creature comforts I found one like new to suit my needs. I was able to purchase a brand new tractor with implements that has been needed on our homestead for several years. The mini excavator was definitely a want not a need but I plan to make money with it to justify the purchase. It would have definitely been cheaper to rent the machine vs the work I have done with it. However what I have done with the machine is not something a rental company would be okay with so it has pros and cons. I have had the older tractors but none with front loaders so I feel absolutely blessed and humbled to even be using much less owning the equipment I have. I'm a very long way off from having sponsors on my homestead channel, it's growing but ever so slowly. But i don't know if I'd want them. Using that stuff would be great but it is only temporary and it can be damaging if you are not able to purchase that equipment or tool. Make you desire things you can't otherwise get. Id rather stick to what I have. I only have a few more attachments I'd like to purchase in time. A 3pt tiller, maybe some farm implements like a plow or disc, a land plane, and a thumb for the excavator. I wish I could do half of what others do, but I started my channel for those like me, who can't. I love your content, I know you don't do how to videos, but there is a lot a person can learn from you none the less. It's important to be humble.
Cap’n avoiding anyone calling you a ‘whacker’… now that’s definitely a pro TH-camr move!
A rock, a pond and a man with his Zebco… little by little you’re turning that place into a haven!
Glad to see you’re getting back to the YT Yacht… I’m itching to pay the first rental!!!!
There are times that I wish I had a Mini Ex… but, I can’t even justify all the toys I already have. The top half of the walls in my woodworking shop are covered with peg board. Tools and such are two deep on every peg… and, I’m out of room for more pegs. I have one wall with floor to ceiling cabinets filled with power hand tools… and yet, I have stuff that I don’t have storage for… I keep asking myself, “Do I need more tools?” And, mysteriously another one shows up!!!
So, the answer is gonna have to be, “No, I don’t need a Mini Ex. There’s no place to peg it on my walls!”
Funny you mentioned that, I was thinking last week that I might put up another "peg board wall" in the shop here, since I was tired of digging through over-stuffed tool boxes to find tools I KNOW I have.
@ LOL… it’s a good idea when you start… but, once it starts to look like you have the walls totally wallpapered with stuff… it turns into ‘Where’s Waldo”!!
PS: make sure you use 1/4” tempered perf board… the cheap stuff can’t hold feathers!
@@sassafrasvalley1939 Yeah, and what I really need is a way to find the tool I "was using 5 minutes ago." If you, or Captain Kleeman can develop that system, you'll make a fortune.
Yes, you need it and will use it. It makes so many of these projects go faster. Hopefully it is in the budget long term.
Hi Mike & it's is Randy and i like yours video is Cool & Thanks Mike & Friends Randy
Hey Randy . 👍
Great progress Mike. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family.
Good video with creative camera angles.👌
So what you're saying is......I definitely need a mini Ex and a Skid Steer for my 1 acre lot in suburban Chicagoland........ so be expecting a call from my wife to defend those statements......
Don't forget about the dump truck
Hello Mike, long time watcher, first contributor. I was very happy when you announced you were going to purchase the 304. Ive watched you do all those jobs with your other equipment and was amazed but also wishing you would purchase a mini and also a skid loader to help make the jobs easier. I have both a hitachi ex40 which is 22 years old and a bobcat 773 and they are awesome for me. Good luck in your future endeavors brother
Mike if it was me for the bottom glass that got broke. I believe I would have a piece of plexiglass cut for it probably a lot cheaper to than regular glass. An could handle a little smack here and there from a branch or other things. Either way just my opinion glad you got the opportunity to buy it from DP. Love the videos btw.
MBTS would be proud of that fire!!
That 304c could lift a gold nugget worth roughly $126,663,964. Keep diggin!
Thanks for the video Captain. Totally agree with you on the mini ex and definitely is useful for ya . Good iuck with the meeting you have and I'm excited to see some TH-cam Yacht action.👍👏💪
Captain everyone needs an excavator. Some just need it more than others. I have been known to rent one and dig lots of holes in my back yard so I can spend the next couple of months on the tractor just happily filling in the holes … lol
Take care Brother and Stay Safe!!
Safer, faster, this is a good choice you have made. Get your Deere running and save the x for other things.
Septic drain line ? Running straight to the pond ! Did I miss something about septic systems. I'm in the city so it all runs to the ocean that I do swim in now and then
I left a leaf blower blowing on the fire once it was about 30 feet away ended up, melting it enjoy your videos
Yes Mike I do understand it is a great machine to have, but for most of us, not really needed, in your case with the type of jobs your doing, I think it was good for you to have 😎😎👍👍🍮🍮❤
Savings in time can be calculated as another positive consequence of Rent to Own Excavator. Helps pay for itself in time saving.
Hey Captain! Great Video! I've been doing the same thing on multiple properties. If you do this land Reclamation work I highly recommend a Screening bucket for the excavator. You can sort through so many materials and it acts like a big rake when cleaning up the woods! I got mine from #rhinox. Great vids! Thanks.
I think DP owes you a discount seeing as the glass is broken😂
Keep up the good work and stay strong!
Thank you for the support!
That backhoe is awesome☝🏼😊👍🏼🇺🇸
Awesome to watch. Thanks Captain!
Ten thousand years from now, somebody is going to wonder across, " Kleeman's Stone Hedge, " and wonder, " What the help was he thinking? ". 😁😁😅😅😅😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
One slip of the magnet, and that camera is a junk of non usable plastic?
Admiral, Captain, family, have a wonderful day.
You CAT 304 purchase on the rental pay plan is a necessity if you plan on building out you property per your plan.
Not only are excavators versatile, they increase productivity exponentially.
Captain, I bought a ole clapped out Massey 40 with a new john deere 485 hoe on the back . Still making my quick attachment fur the bucket .😅
Those glass seeds take some time to germinate, never stop cultivating your dreams!
Yes, Yes you really do Mike. 😁
I have a few pieces of old stove pipe that I keep around to stuff in the base of a burn pile then I can sit at a comfortable distance with the leaf blower
Excellent idea, I'm trying that one. I always seem to have mounds of wet wood to burn. 😅
Kleeman Khronikles kontinue....so the Kleeman Quarry and Bucket Dentistry divisions of Kleeman Enterprises Worldwide were featured in today's program. And....aren't you a fireman? You looked like a trained professional around that burn pile. Good progress today and thanks for insights on future projects and the background on the mini....it's good to know the backstory on things. As always....great channel, great content.
Better than it was..... Not as good as it could be........Perfect......
Fires work a lot better with so many leaves on the ground. They also smell better!
Brilliant video as usual, I really look forward to forward to seeing them 🇬🇧🇬🇧
Very true Captain! Keep up the good work
Great job!
Thanks!
Sorry,but you Do Need the 304 ,no ifs or buts about it.
The work that you have done with it shows how important it is .
With 20 acres of various conditions the ability to be capable of doing the tasks is important.
Now watching you repair or refurbish the Backhoe is Admirable and enjoyable,the frustrating limited abilities ion your land prove how the Need for the 304 is clear.
Imagine if you could claw back the time that you have spent on fixing, and the extra time required to get the jobs done but we're held up by limited traction,limited access, frustrating times that it was just stuck,all add up to lost time and taking you away from getting individual jobs completed .
As I commented before you Need ,yes need a decent 50 or 60 HP 4x4 Tractor,loader and all the various attachments.
A tractor that can tow a good tipping trailer to your various jobs on the land ,the ability to rotary hoe,box blade,posthole boring ,fertilizer spreading,spray tank ,water tank and pump,mowing or scrub cutting etc etc .
If you bring efficiency to the game ,you may gain Time ,your body will thank you , remember that you're only Young Once .
Need doesn't necessarily mean Greed ,it's part of the Working Smarter thinking !
Cheers
As the saying goes, "Work Smarter, Not Harder".
Nice to see you finish up a few of your catchup projects.making improvements every chance you get.place is changing day by day.great video as always,for the man of many talents.just keep on doing your thing.be safe.😎😎😎👍👍👍
It is a need if you don't have the extra time it would take with the other options. I you do have the time, it is a luxury.
yes to need an excavator and also you need a small dozer with all the property you have you need lots of different equipment. BAYTOWN, TEXAS
"I heard it when I said it." hahaha! my thoughts exactly, ha!
Excavator makes work fun.
Your right, anybody can do anything if they just put their mind to it and break things down into manageable tasks. But having an excavator works too! 😂
I think on your land the 304 is safer and faster .cost is more but so is your life. I am just very happy you have it. nice work captain. keep up the lafs. cheers.
@ 22:24 those bucket Teeth need to see a Dentist as they are so loose they might need to be pulled ??? LMAO
YES!!!!
Well technically speaking without TH-cam you wouldn't have been able to do the ford 555 either. It's not revenue driven but it is collaboration driven. Which in my opinion is better equity then the money.
Fire in the Wood!! Always Danger! It give the Mulcher. And the great Wood, as firewood for the Winter in the House. Then You dig out great Stone! A new Idea! For the Pond??? Then farther Wood to Pick, and make great Heap ! For the next Fire! 😱😱
so true but as time goes by Our old backs get tired and it becomes harder to get that get up and go like before, There really nice to have and in the long run, smile at those acks you have now. think of 10 years from now and just keep repairing your machine's, Lucky you very fortunate to half Dirt Perfect
Mike, was that weed burner a Harbor Freight purchase? They did a safety recall on their weed burners a few years back due to hose failure. You may be able to return yours for a replacement.
Mate! Your household budget must be shot to pieces if you only have that pair of holey pants to wear!😊
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, ideas and videos. Sounds like it’s getting time for some line boring. Maybe C&C will lend you a setup since last I saw they had more than one to use. Now since it’s technically still a part of the DP line up does he pay you to do long term maintenance to it, obviously your on the hook for the glass, but does he contribute to fixing the floppy bucket syndrome since he helped make it. 😂 Looking forward to seeing what you have coming up even though it’s still a secret 🤫. Nice idea with the stone around the pond. Wishing you and your family the best.
Sure is a handy machine..you get a ton more done with it but I do like the finish work ya get done with the 755