They got the 12V-71 going and it runs/screams excellent. They took the bucket cylinder off to get resealed. It had a problem with the drive on side that they think is from the drive chain being worn out. Koehring keeps it simple. A couple name plates just say Hoe. The owner basically gave the machine to them. Nobody was really going to buy it so he figured he'd just park it there. Excellent idea and saved from the scrappers. Apparently he's 83 and can barely walk but came out one time and hopped up in the machine like he "owned it". It's a bit of work getting into the seat, not that it's much of a seat. I'd have a real hard time with my back being glued together.
Any chance this guy wants to part with this excavator?
No. It's part of what is to be become a mostly working equipment museum. It would cost a lot to move it to the states too.