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From placing an enquiry on Volvo Construction Equipment’s website, three Volvo EC18D’s ended up in the shopping basket of Basically Tool Hire Ltd of Eskbank, Dalkeith, Midlothian.
The initial web enquiry was immediately passed to Volvo’s recently appointed utility dealer for central and southern Scotland - Rockbreakers (UK) Ltd, who subsequently arranged a demonstration of an EC18D for the family based tool and hire business. “We were pleasantly surprised with the machine especially in terms of its ease of serviceability, simplicity of design yet robust build qualities and the routing of the equipment’s hydraulic hoses,” comments General Manager Shaun Cassidy. “As we were in the market to replace a couple of our existing machines, and following a positive encounter with the EC18D we placed an order for two machines.”
Both units were supplied by Rockbreakers (UK) Ltd in early February. “The minute they arrived, the machines were out on non-operated hires and have proved that popular with our regular customers that we’ve just ordered a third unit,” continues Shaun.
The Volvo EC18D features a D0.9A Volvo diesel engine that meets the latest EPA Tier 4 emission regulations. Emissions are further kept to a minimum thanks to the optional automatic idling system, which reduces engine speed to idle if the controls are inactive for more than five seconds. If the machine is left idling for longer, the engine can be automatically shut down. This then stops the hour meter, leading to longer service intervals, lower operating costs and ensuring a better resale value for the machine.
When it comes to durability the EC18D sports a tough rear counterweight providing outstanding impact resistance and shields all vital components which is crucial for non-operated hires. The unique high-profile design is made from a single strong piece of cast iron that wraps around each side of the machine for superb protection. The flat, toughened glass used on the four sides of the cab guarantees that replacements can be fitted simply, quickly and expensively if damage occurs.
The robust dozer blade is equipped with a welded-on cutting edge for superior wear resistance and a durable upper lip provides added protection against damage in tough applications and excellent stiffness when using the blade as a stabilizer. The sturdy structure and the curved profile of the blade ensure outstanding performance whether dozing or back filling.
Another feature which greatly reduces on-site damage is the lift cylinder which is located on top of the boom whilst most hoses are routed through the boom, for the ultimate in durability.
Not only is the D-Series highly durable, it is also easy to maintain thanks to its excellent built-in service features. Daily service points are logically grouped under the wide-opening engine hood. With Volvo’s patented multifunctional hydraulic oil filter, filtration occurs when the tank is filled or topped up and before the oil returns back via the drain lines. A transparent bowl enables easy oil level checks and permits early detection of contamination. Both the ease and speed of inspections, together with long 50-hour greasing intervals, increases uptime and encourages essential work to be carried out, enhancing machine lifetime.