Four years on with a fleet of four machines, the company has upgraded to the latest Volvo model taking delivery of the first EC18C to be delivered north of the border.
Established twenty five years ago, the family run business had, up until 2007, concentrated its hire activities to just small tools and static equipment. Following the move to new premises on the outskirts of Alloa, the opportunity to expand into mobile plant however presented itself to John and Barry MacPherson resulting in the purchase of their first Volvo EC15BXTV. “Since then we’ve not had to look elsewhere for mini diggers,” commented John MacPherson. “Our customers have only had positive comments to make regarding their performance and as a result, here we are purchasing our fourth machine. Looking back, our initial consideration in choosing the Volvo brand was the fact there was a support centre close by at Stirling, but in hindsight we haven’t had to rely too much on that due to the good reliability of the product,” he continued.
The new Volvo EC18C is one of four machines ranging between 1.5 and 2.0 tonnes that became available on the GB market last autumn and is a direct replacement for the EC15B XTV model. Powered by a 12.3 Kw (16.8hp) engine, the machine features automatic two speed travel and extendable undercarriage as standard. One significant change on the new models is that hydraulic hoses for the digging equipment are now routed through the boom and cylinders are top mounted to minimize on site damage. The machine supplied to Alloa Hire Centre features a full cab – a canopy version is also available. The 1.8 tonne compact excavator also benefits from load-sensing hydraulic system for fast cycle times, even when carrying out multiple functions. Maximum dig depth is a generous 2.3 metres.
A single piece engine hood provides unobstructed access to all the engine components whilst the instrument panel provides at-a-glance monitoring of all key functions. The cab’s easy to clean flat floor panel lifts for access to hydraulics and main control valve.
Alloa Hire Centre provides a comprehensive tool and machine hire service throughout the central belt of Scotland and has developed a highly successful online sales operation trading as AHC Tools, supplying tools and equipment worldwide.
Volvo Construction Equipment Division markets wheeled loaders, articulated haulers, hydraulic excavators, graders, Volvo utility and road machinery products in the U.K. There are eight strategically placed customer support centres and a network of utility compact equipment dealerstoensure high quality customer support is maintained throughout Great Britain.
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