Diggers Direct sets sights on JCB Hi Viz Loadalls
One of Ireland’s leading nationwide plant hire firms has bought a fleet of JCB’s new 540-180 Hi Viz Loadall telescopic handlers - becoming the first in the country to offer the new machine.
Dublin-based Diggers Direct has purchased 10 of the new models as part of its major fleet expansion to meet the needs of construction customers working on major projects across Ireland.
Supplied by dealer ECI JCB, the 18-metre addition to JCB’s popular Hi Viz Loadall range of telescopic handlers has been specifically designed to meet the needs of rental companies, offering reduced cost of ownership, faster cycle times and best in class visibility, with improved lift height and increased forward reach.
Key features of the machine include:
- 5% improvement in lift height
- 10% greater forward reach
- 50% lower SAE serviceability rating
- 50% service cost saving over 1,000 hours
- 20% faster cycle times
Diggers Direct Director Ken Dillon said: "JCB telehandlers are the best machines for our customers' needs and retain excellent resale values, so they are the perfect machines for us. The lift performance and visibility on the new Hi Viz machines is excellent and they are already busy on projects for our customers.
“We deal with ECI JCB in Dublin because the service they provide is excellent. We have a longstanding relationship with the team there and they always go the extra mile for us. Our business is growing and it's good to know we have the support of an exceptional dealer to support us all the way."
The new models join existing JCB 535-125 Loadalls and JCB 3CX Sitemaster backhoe loaders in the Diggers Direct fleet. From its depot in the north west of Dublin, it offers an extensive range of operated and non-operated plant including compact and tracked excavators, site dumpers, rollers, backhoe loaders and telehandlers.
The company has vast experience supporting major high-profile projects including: Dublin Port Tunnel, Dublin Airport Terminal and Luas, Dublin's Light Rail Tram System.
The 540-180 is powered by JCB’s proven SmartPower Tier 4 Final EcoMAX diesel engine, delivering 55kW (74hp) with no requirement for a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) or Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) additive, reducing operating costs for the customer. This drives through a four-speed JCB Powershift transmission with a maximum travel speed of 29kph.
The JCB Loadall side-engine design provides easy access to regular maintenance points, while the diesel tank filler is recessed into the cab structure for added protection and accessibility. With the low-maintenance boom design, no DPF and 500-hour service intervals, the 540-180 has a best-in-class SAE service rating, offering a 50% service cost saving over many competitors over a 1,000-hour operating period.