JCB dualdrive Backhoe delivers the power for Irish hirer
One of the first new JCB 4CX Pro DualDrive backhoe loaders in Ireland is proving faster and safer on utilities and infrastructure work.
Purchased by County Clare-based APH Plant Hire Ltd, the brand new JCB 4CX Pro is on hire to Circet UK which is a leading provider in telecoms, transport and power sectors. The backhoe loader is already showing its versatility on a range of power supply installation projects including the laying of ducting, pole planting for electricity cables and the establishment of access roadways on major work sites.
Supplied by dealer ECI JCB, the new machine benefits from DualDrive – JCB’s latest backhoe innovation which allows the operator to drive and reposition the machine while facing the excavator, without having to turn the seat to the front-facing position. This is proving highly beneficial on APH’s current projects.
We bought our first JCB second-hand in 1986 and have bought new models since 1990. We always find them fault-free - we’ve never had an issue and the aftersales and service from ECI JCB is excellent.
Eamonn Powell | APH Plant Hire Ltd Managing Director
“The new JCB is quick on the road at over 40kph and very manoeuvrable on site with the 4-wheel steer very helpful in tight spaces. Overall, it’s a very versatile machine and we’re really happy with it.
“We handle a lot of electrical transformers which can be lifted with the back actor. DualDrive give us the ability to drive the way we are facing, whereas traditionally reversing through and into sites was awkward and posed greater risk. It is also very helpful when operating in forestry giving greater visibility through trees. It means we can be faster, safer and more productive.”
The new 4CX Pro model boasts a number of further developments, including a single loader lever to reduce operator effort, revised direction control for quicker and easier use, a return-to-grade function for improved performance and upgraded quickhitch with wider fork carriage.
APH Plant Hire Ltd was established in 1986 and is primarily involved with power line and electric transmission works for ESB Networks and Circet UK & Ireland, operating from its base in Co Clare, it covers Limerick and Tipperary.