The U48-5 sits at the top of Kubota compact excavator range before you move into the bigger tail-swing machines. It runs the D1803 diesel rated at 39 hp, Tier 4 emissions, and this unit is the cab and angle blade version. The angle blade is the part that earns its keep: you can push spoil sideways down a trench line instead of turning the whole machine around.
Cab and controls
A 7 in. LCD color display with a jog dial is standard on the dash. Keyless start is available as a dealer-fitted option and stores up to ten operator passcodes, so a crew can share one machine without a key going missing on site. A rearview camera is factory ready and dealer installed; press the camera button on the right-hand keypad and the screen splits, machine data on top, view behind below.
Operator station has a fully flat floor for legroom, dual adjustable seat and console, a slide-up front window, wrist rest and a cup holder. The air conditioning went from five vents to seven for faster cool-down and defrost. Work lights are LED rather than halogen.
| Model | Kubota U48-5, compact excavator |
|---|---|
| Engine | Kubota D1803, diesel, Tier 4 |
| Horsepower | 39 |
| Trim | Cab, angle blade |
| Blade width | 5 ft 6.9 in. (1,700 mm) |
| Blade height | 13.5 in. (343 mm), angle blade 1 ft 3.2 in. (385 mm) |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
Hydraulics and attachments
Auxiliary circuit AUX1 has proportional flow control with an adjustable maximum oil flow setting, so you can dial the machine down for a small auger or open it up for a breaker. The proportional switch is bi-directional, which is what you need for a hydraulic thumb. The third-line return is now electronic and engaged through the display rather than by reaching for a valve on the right side bank, which is how the earlier -4 machines did it.
Two-speed travel is standard. So is TPSS, the two-pattern selection switch, so you can flip between ISO and SAE controls without tools or leaving the seat. Service points are grouped on one side of the engine, the hood panels are steel, and the swivel bearing lubrication is centralised.
Flat $550 freight in the continental US and 30 days from delivery to return it. Call (712) 356-0109 for attachment fitment questions.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.