Forth Plant Mini Excavator Fleet goes All-Kubota
Forth Plant Hire of Alloa now operates a 100 per cent Kubota miniexcavator fleet after buying a U25-3GL 2.54 tonne zero tail swing model.
It replaces a Volvo machine and joins two KX36-3 1.5 tonne models and two U10-3 1.0 tonne zero tail swing machines in the company's all-Kubota
fleet.
The U25-3GL combines unmatched operator comfort and environmental efficiency with 360-degree manoeuvrability. It delivers safe, high performance digging operations, particularly in confined and awkward areas, coupled with fast, convenient movement between sites.
By keeping the rear engine hood within the track at all times, models in the U-3 series are able to work safely close to buildings, walls and busy roads or pavements without restriction, enabling the operator to concentrate fully on the task in hand.
As well as hiring out the mini excavators, Forth Plant Hire uses them for its specialist landscaping, pavior and mono-block driveway work carried out through its sister company, Forth Paving and Landscaping.
Owner Graham Sleith bought his first Kubota, a U10-3 model, in 2005. The former machine operator had previously run CAT and Volvo mini excavators, but after experiencing the benefits of the Kubota he has bought nothing else.
"They are ideal for the varied work we and our customers use them for, which ranges from landscaping to foundation work," he said. "Because of their compact size they can be used inside as well as outdoors, with the smallest models able to get through a 750mm wide entrance into the tightest of spaces."
"They are very good buys because of their reliability, durability and performance, and we have had nothing go wrong with them. They are packed full of practical features and are easy to operate, helping our staff and our customers to get the work done quickly and efficiently."
Along with the reliable Kubota diesel engines, he said servicing was quick and simple, with just the filters and oil needing changing on a scheduled basis.
"My staff like using them, as do our customers who now often ask for a Kubota by name instead of just requesting a mini excavator."
Forth Plant Hire was set up in 1994 with just one machine and now has 20 pieces of assorted plant, which are changed every three years. It also hires out small plant such as cement mixers, compaction plates, rotavators and much more.
Like all its other Kubota minis the U25-3GL was supplied, together with a quick hitch device for ease of changing attachments such as hammers and breakers, by local Kubota distributor, Young Plant Sales, of Doune, Stirling.
Kubota is the European and world leader in mini excavators and provides the largest range of minis available from a single manufacturer, ranging from 1.5 to 8 tonnes, and including the widest choice of zero tail swing machines.
All Kubota minis, from 1.5 tonne upwards, feature their unique 'ANTI-THEFT' system. This complete, easy-to-use security device is the first and still the only one of its kind fitted as standard equipment by a mini excavator manufacturer.
With a legendary reputation for quality, performance, reliability and excellent resale values, their versatility makes them the ideal tool for many different applications and end-users, from civil engineering to landscaping and plant hire companies to owner operators.
/For further information about the market-leading Kubota mini excavators range can be obtained from Kubota (UK) Ltd - Construction Equipment