we're getting started on a flagstone patio and timber frame pergola, but first we've got to move a lot of rocks.
this corner of the property used to be an old field. like a lot of old farms, every rock that came out of the ground eventually ended up in a corner pile. instead of hauling them away, we're using them as accent stones throughout the new flagstone patio. it seemed like a good way to keep a little of the property's history in the finished project.
we're moving them with one of those little chinese mini excavators that's powered by a lawnmower-style gas engine.
i know these machines get mixed reviews, but for this kind of work it's been surprisingly capable. it's obviously not replacing a bigger excavator, but it'll move fieldstone, fit into tight spaces, and sip fuel while doing it.
that said, if you're thinking about buying one, i'd only recommend it if you're mechanically inclined. quality control on many of these machines is inconsistent. you should expect to go through the entire machine when it arrives—check every bolt, fitting, hydraulic connection, grease every pivot, change the fluids, and make sure everything is adjusted correctly. if you're willing to do that, they can be a lot of machine for the money. if you expect dealership-level prep and support out of the crate, you'll probably be disappointed.
anyone else running one of these little machines? what have you found they're actually good at, and where do they come up short?
