Compact (mini) excavator, conventional tail swing (4-ton class)
Kubota KX040-4: specs & used buying guide
Last reviewed . We review this page periodically for accuracy.
Quick answer
The Kubota KX040-4 is a 4-ton-class compact excavator with about 40 gross horsepower and a maximum dig depth near 11 ft 2 in. It offers strong digging performance for its size and is a popular choice for utility, landscaping, and general excavation. Operating weight varies with blade type, so confirm the exact configuration.
Key facts
- Machine type: 4-ton-class compact excavator (conventional tail swing)
- Engine: approximately 40.4 hp gross / 38.9 hp net
- Maximum digging depth: approximately 11 ft 2.6 in (3,420 mm)
- Operating weight: approximately 9,326–9,500 lb (higher with angle or 6-in-1 blade)
- Strong digging force for its class with good attachment support
Overview
The Kubota KX040-4 is a 4-ton-class compact excavator that punches above its size in digging performance. It is widely used for utility trenching, landscaping, and general excavation where a machine of this size can be transported easily yet still dig with authority.
Operating weight varies meaningfully with the blade fitted — a standard blade versus an angle or 6-in-1 blade changes the figure — so match the configuration to your transport setup and needs.
Key specifications
| Machine type | Compact excavator, conventional tail swing (4-ton class) |
|---|---|
| Engine power | ~40.4 hp gross / 38.9 hp net |
| Maximum digging depth | ~11 ft 2.6 in (3,420 mm) |
| Operating weight | ~9,326–9,500 lbHigher (up to ~10,360 lb) with an angle or 6-in-1 blade. |
The KX040-4 is a specific model in Kubota's KX series. Operating weight varies notably by blade and configuration. Confirm the spec sheet and data plate for the specific unit.
Operating weight varies significantly by blade type and configuration. Figures reflect commonly published specifications; confirm against the specific unit's spec sheet and data plate.
Common applications
- Utility and drainage trenching
- Footings and small foundation digging
- Landscaping and grading
- Material handling and loading with the right attachments
- General site excavation in the 4-ton class
Strengths
- Strong digging force for its size
- Good dig depth in the class
- Broad Kubota parts and dealer support
- Good attachment availability
What to check on a used one
- Undercarriage wear — tracks, rollers, idlers, sprockets
- Hydraulic leaks and weak or slow functions
- Pin and bushing slop on boom, arm, and bucket
- Confirm auxiliary hydraulics if you run a thumb, breaker, or auger
How hours affect value
Hours matter most alongside service history and undercarriage condition. Many well-maintained compact excavators run well past mid-life hour counts; verify maintenance and inspect the wear items.
Inspection checklist
- Undercarriage: track, roller, idler, and sprocket wear
- Hydraulics: leaks and smooth, strong function on every circuit
- Auxiliary hydraulic flow if fitted
- Boom, arm, and bucket pins and bushings for slop
- Blade operation and cylinder condition
- Cold-start, smoke, and hour meter vs records
Maintenance & records to ask for
- Confirm engine and hydraulic service intervals were met
- Check for records of undercarriage service or replacement
- Ask about any major hydraulic repairs
Attachments & transport
Confirm the coupler type and whether auxiliary hydraulics are fitted for thumbs, breakers, and augers you plan to use.
Around 9,300–10,400 lb depending on blade, the KX040-4 is transportable on a suitable trailer — confirm your trailer rating and the machine's exact weight with its blade.
Questions to ask the seller
- Which blade is fitted, and what is the exact operating weight?
- Does it have auxiliary hydraulics, and what attachments has it run?
- Are there service records and undercarriage history?
- Why are you selling, and can I dig with it and cycle all functions?
Comparable models
- CAT 305
5-ton-class excavator — a step up in size and weight.
- Bobcat E35
Smaller 3.5-ton-class machine; lighter and easier to transport.
- John Deere 35G
3.5-ton-class alternative.
Head-to-head comparisons
Side-by-side spec comparisons with the models buyers cross-shop most.
Frequently asked questions
Related buying guides
Sources & verification
Specifications on this page were triangulated against the publishers below and reviewed on the date shown. Figures vary by configuration and model year — always confirm the exact specs on the spec sheet and data plate of the specific unit.
- Kubota — official product specificationsKX040-4 engine power, maximum digging depth, and operating weight range
- RitchieSpecs equipment specification databaseIndependent cross-check of operating weight, rated operating capacity, and engine power across configurations
Ready to find a Kubota KX040-4?
Tell us the machine, your budget, and your location. We search the market and send you a ranked Scout Report of the strongest candidates.
Get help finding a Kubota KX040-4
Tell us what you need. A Scout will follow up — no account required to start.