First new JCB Mini Excavator lands in Northern Ireland

A leading drainage contractor has bought the first of the brand new JCB 2.5 tonne mini excavator models to reach Northern Ireland.

Crumlin-based Philip Wilson Land Drainage has taken delivery of the new zero tailswing 25Z-1 model, which will be put to work on a range of agricultural, domestic and commercial contracting jobs across the country. 

Supplied by dealer Dennison JCB, the brand new JCB 25Z-1 joins a JCB 56Z-2 compact excavator, 8008 micro excavator, CT160-100 vibratory tandem roller and a 531-70 Loadall telescopic handler already in Philip Wilson Land Drainage’s fleet.

The 25Z-1 is the latest addition to JCB’s range of compact excavators. Powered by an EU Stage V engine, the zero tailswing model boasts a redesigned cab, improved dig-end geometry and electro-proportional auxiliary, swing and dozer controls.

Philip Wilson Land Drainage Owner, Jeff Wilson said: “We buy JCB because they are reliable and the back-up and service from Dennison JCB is excellent. This latest machine is ideal – it will be perfect for what we’re doing. We wanted to put a rotating grab on an excavator of this size, which we couldn’t do with our previous machine, so it was time for a change as we needed that capability.

“We’re keen to invest in zero tailswing machines as a lot of the work we do is in very compact areas, so this was a key feature for us. We also needed a machine which we could tow behind a pick-up which again the JCB can do so it’s the perfect machine for our requirements.”

With an overall width of 1,500mm, the 25Z-1 tips the scales at just 2,550kg. The machine can be towed behind a van or a 4x4, making it easy to move the excavator between job sites. It is equipped with nine tie-down points, for secure transportation without chains or straps cutting into rubber tracks.