Unmatched versatility lands order for 20 JCB Backhoes

A North West plant hirer has invested in a fleet of 20 of JCB’s world leading 3CX backhoe loaders. 

Stockport-based H&C Plant Hire has purchased the JCB 3CX Eco models to carry out a range of local council contracts in the Manchester area.

All of H&C Plant Hire's backhoes have been configured with the Powerslide side-shift option, hammer pipework and street pads to the stabiliser legs. In addition, the driveline includes JCB's Torquelock transmission. Combined with JCB’s optional 6-speed Autoshift transmission, it can help save up to 25% on fuel and 10% on road travel time. This excellent roading capability was a key feature for the firm when specifying backhoe loaders for the role.

H&C Plant Hire’s Plant Manager, Lee Barlow, said: “We use backhoes because we don’t need to consider transport when assessing projects so we can keep costs down and security-wise we know the machines will be stored safely in our yard overnight. The new machines are also great for customers working in residential areas as they’re quiet, so they don’t disturb people when operating.

“We’ve tried competitive models over the years, but none are able to beat JCB or even get close. We also have our dealer Gunn JCB nearby in Altrincham and they have been a fantastic support over the years.”

In typical roading, loading, excavating and idle cycles, the 3CX JCB Eco backhoe loader, equipped with a powerful Ecomax engine, delivers an average fuel saving of up to 16%, plus lower emissions and noise levels. Also, with extended periods between fill ups, customers benefit from a longer, more productive working day.

H&C Plant Hire has been supplying operated plant and equipment throughout the North West of England for over three decades. It is part of the Westgate Group and operates from two locations; Bredbury near Stockport and Levenshulme, Manchester - both providing fully equipped workshops and the bases for its team of mobile plant engineers.