The Rise of Champion Road Machinery
Champion Road Machinery Ltd., founded in 1875 in Goderich, Ontario, began as a manufacturer of horse-drawn road graders. By the mid-20th century, Champion had become a respected name in motor grader innovation, competing with industry giants like Caterpillar and Allis-Chalmers. The company focused on building machines tailored for municipal and contractor use, often emphasizing simplicity, durability, and ease of maintenance.
The Champion 100T was one of the company’s most formidable offerings. Designed for heavy-duty grading in mining, road construction, and industrial applications, the 100T represented the peak of Champion’s engineering before its eventual acquisition by Volvo Construction Equipment in the late 1990s.
Terminology Annotation

• Articulated Frame: A design that allows the grader to bend in the middle, improving maneuverability and blade control.
  
• Circle Drive: The mechanism that rotates the moldboard (blade) to adjust grading angle.
  
• Scarifier: A front-mounted tool used to break up compacted surfaces before grading.
  
• Hydraulic Levers: Controls that operate blade lift, tilt, articulation, and steering via pressurized fluid.
  
• Moldboard: The curved blade used to cut, spread, and level material.
  

• Operating weight: Approximately 30,000–35,000 lbs
  
• Blade width: 14 feet standard
  
• Engine output: 200–225 hp
  
• Transmission: Powershift with multiple forward and reverse speeds
  
• Tires: 14.00x24 or larger, depending on configuration
  

• Inspect hydraulic hoses for dry rot and replace with modern equivalents
  
• Flush and replace hydraulic fluid every 500 hours
  
• Grease all pivot points, especially articulation joints and circle drive gears
  
• Check tire pressure and sidewall integrity regularly
  
• Use high-zinc diesel oil to protect older engine components
  

Introduction
Embarking on a venture in the heavy equipment or rental industry is an exciting yet demanding journey. Many professionals find themselves pondering the smart strategies to begin—often juggling a full-time job while testing the entrepreneurial waters. Insights from seasoned operators and emerging rental entrepreneurs offer a vivid picture of how to start small and grow sustainably.
Starting Small with Side Hustle Thinking
One thoughtful approach shared by someone with a civil project management background involved acquiring a small dozer instead of mini-excavators or skid steers. The reasoning was savvy: smaller machines often require daily check-ins and more customer turnover, while a compact dozer is more likely to be rented out for longer stretches—weeks rather than days. This allowed the business to be managed part-time from home, with minimal overhead, potentially undercutting larger rental companies on price due to lower fixed expenses. The key challenge noted was attracting attention—without a storefront, advertising needed to rely heavily on word of mouth and niche online listings.
Real-World Success from Simple Launches
A striking real-life success story involves a trailer rental side hustle. Starting with one trailer, the entrepreneur listed it locally and generated unexpected demand. Over time, the venture grew to six trailers of varying sizes—from small utility trailers renting at around $50 daily to heavy-duty models renting at $125. With minimal daily time investment (initially about two hours, later closer to an hour), the business generated between $2,500 and $8,000 per month, even after maintenance costs averaging $100 per trailer. This example showcases how small-scale beginnings, smart market testing, and adapting to customer interest can scale quickly.
Strategic Advice from the Field
Experienced voices warn against jumping into heavy commitments too quickly. One user advised that starting by renting the exact equipment needed for the job—rather than purchasing immediately—helps gauge business viability. They stressed that buying equipment in hopes of earning profit without a clear demand is a fast track to losses. Adding that equipment is only half of the business equation; office operations, marketing, client relations, and pricing strategy are equally essential. They strongly recommended seeking guidance from a business coach and proceeding with realistic expectations—long hours, stress, and possibly lean revenues in the early years.
Industry Context and Market Trends

• The rental industry, often referred to as “plant hire,” is massive and growing. In North America alone, revenues reached around $55.7 billion by 2019, and global figures continue rising.
  
• Key heavy equipment manufacturers include Caterpillar (USD 37.5 billion in sales, about 16.3% of the market), Komatsu, and John Deere.
  
• Among rental platforms transforming the landscape, United Rentals boasts the largest fleet globally and operates around 1,625 locations, representing roughly 16% of the North American rental market share.
  
• EquipmentShare is another rising star, originating as a peer-to-peer rental idea and evolving into a tech-forward company with its own equipment service and digital platform, offering real-time asset tracking and fleet management.
  

1. Start Lean and Test Demand
   • Begin with a single, high-utilization asset—like a small dozer or trailer—and test the market’s response.
     
   • Use spare time to manage operations and avoid high overhead in the initial phase.
     
2. Validate the Market Before Investing
   • Renting equipment first or using a prototype listing on marketplaces can reveal real interest.
     
   • Use informal surveys or simple listings to gauge customer needs before purchase.
     
3. Prioritize Operational Foundations
   • Equip yourself with a basic business plan, marketing strategy, and understanding of zoning or business regulations.
     
   • Consider mentorship or coaching to structure your business approach appropriately.
     
4. Scale Responsibly
   • As demand grows, reinvest earnings to expand your fleet.
     
   • Focus on maintaining high utilization rates—the longer equipment is rented out, the greater ROI.
     
5. Leverage Digital Platforms and Tech
   • Online marketplaces and rental networks like EquipmentShare or BigRentz can increase reach and visibility.
     
   • Modern asset tracking and maintenance systems streamline operations and build trust with clients.
     

The D9H and Its Mechanical Legacy
The Caterpillar D9H was introduced in the early 1970s as a successor to the D9G, continuing Caterpillar’s dominance in the heavy dozer segment. Built for mining, road construction, and large-scale earthmoving, the D9H featured a turbocharged diesel engine producing over 400 horsepower, paired with a torque converter and powershift transmission. Caterpillar Inc., founded in 1925, had by then become synonymous with durability and global reach, and the D9H was one of its most successful machines, with thousands sold across North America, Australia, and the Middle East.
The D9H’s cooling system and instrumentation were designed for rugged environments, but decades later, many units still in service face challenges with replacement parts, especially gauges and sending units.
Terminology Annotation

• Sending Unit: A sensor that converts temperature or pressure into an electrical or mechanical signal for a gauge.
  
• Electric Gauge: A dashboard instrument that receives input from a sending unit via electrical current.
  
• Mechanical Gauge: A gauge that uses direct pressure or temperature input through capillary tubes or Bourdon tubes.
  
• Reversible Fan: A cooling fan that can reverse blade pitch to blow debris out of the radiator core.
  
• Heat Gun: An infrared thermometer used to measure surface temperatures without contact.
  

• Water Pressure Gauge: 3S-4131
  
• Water Temperature Gauge (newer style): 200-5234
  
• Water Temperature Gauge (older style): 8S-4915
  

• Use an infrared heat gun to measure multiple points on the block and radiator
  
• Compare readings with dashboard gauge output
  
• Relocate the sending unit to a cooler part of the head or thermostat housing
  
• Inspect fan blade pitch and socket wear
  
• Confirm coolant flow and thermostat operation
  
• Replace aftermarket gauge with OEM mechanical unit
  

• Confirm thread size and capillary length for mechanical units
  
• Use vibration-resistant mounting brackets
  
• Avoid routing capillary tubes near exhaust manifolds
  
• Test gauge response in boiling water before installation
  

• Inspect blade pitch and hub play
  
• Verify reverse function if equipped
  
• Clean radiator fins and shroud for unobstructed airflow
  

Background of the Case 1845B Skid Steer
The Case 1845B skid steer loader was one of the most widely used machines in the late 1970s through the 1990s. Known for its durability and versatility, the 1845B became a benchmark in the construction and agricultural industries. Case Corporation, which later became part of CNH Industrial, built the model to compete with Bobcat and other emerging skid steer manufacturers. The 1845B was powered by a Case diesel engine with mechanical fuel injection, a simple yet reliable system that allowed operators to work in harsh environments with minimal electronics. Sales of the 1845B were strong across North America and Europe, with thousands of units produced, many of which are still in operation today due to their rugged design and easy-to-service components.
Function of the Auxiliary Fuel Pump
The auxiliary fuel pump, often referred to as the lift pump, plays a critical role in supplying diesel from the fuel tank to the injection pump. In mechanical diesel engines like those found in the Case 1845B, the lift pump ensures constant pressure and flow so that the injection pump can deliver precise fuel amounts to the engine cylinders. When this pump fails, the engine may crank but not start, or it may run erratically due to inconsistent fuel supply.
Common Symptoms of Pump Failure
Operators have reported several typical symptoms that indicate a failing lift pump in the 1845B:

• The machine cranks but does not fire.
  
• Loss of power under heavy load.
  
• Engine stalling after a short period of operation.
  
• Presence of air bubbles in the fuel line.
  
• Difficulty priming the fuel system after filter replacement.
  

1. Check for Fuel Flow – Disconnect the line between the pump and the injection pump to verify whether diesel is being pushed consistently.
   
2. Inspect for Air Leaks – Examine hoses, clamps, and fittings for cracks or loose connections that could introduce air into the system.
   
3. Test Pump Pressure – The Case 1845B’s lift pump should deliver between 4–7 psi. Using a simple pressure gauge can confirm pump health.
   
4. Bypass Test – Installing a temporary electric pump can verify if the machine runs properly when bypassing the mechanical pump.
   

• Mechanical OEM-style pump – This preserves originality and requires no wiring modifications.
  
• Electric aftermarket pump – Often preferred for ease of priming and reliability. A low-pressure electric pump rated at 5–7 psi is commonly used as a replacement.
  

• Replace fuel filters every 250 hours of operation.
  
• Keep the fuel tank clean and use diesel stabilizer to prevent microbial growth.
  
• Regularly inspect hoses and clamps for deterioration.
  
• Drain water separators to avoid corrosion in the injection pump.
  

Owning a 1974-era backhoe can feel like inheriting a mechanical time capsule—part antique, part puzzle, filled with stories in every bolt. This account unfolds the journey of a backhoe owner, uncovering its mechanical heritage, the challenges of restoration, and the alchemy of combining ingenuity and industry sources.
Engine Rebuild Discoveries
The story begins when this 1974 model, bought in mid-October years ago, refused to start reliably as temperatures dropped. After enlisting a diesel mechanic, they discovered one cylinder was completely silent, and the others had poor compression. The decision was made to rebuild the engine. (Technical note: compression is the measure of how effectively each cylinder can generate pressure, vital for power.)
Later, during engine removal, a component within the transmission housing—likely part of the transaxle interface—was found damaged. This necessitated either sourcing the exact part or having one remanufactured. (Tip: consider materials and hardness of remade parts to match original durability.)
Tracing the Tractor’s Roots
Further investigation revealed that the machine was a rebadged version of a well-known European tractor. The brand “Long” manufactured or distributed agricultural and tobacco-industry equipment, often importing European units, then re-branding them domestically. These relics are now quite rare—“orphaned” machines without ongoing support. (Terminology: “rebadged” means a model built by one manufacturer but sold under another brand name.)
One expert guessed the tractor might have been originally built by David Brown, though another pointed out that Leyland models were a common base. In agricultural machinery circles, Leyland tractors are known for certain widely-used parts—which, if the machine shares components, raises hope that replacement parts may still be found. Another route could be older JCB units, which originally used Leyland chassis before evolving into their own designs.
The Hunt for Parts
Finding parts for such vintage machinery is tricky. Antique tractors and backhoes may show up in salvage yards, auctions, or among fellow collectors. A smart strategy is:

• Identify the original model: Knowing whether it’s a specific Leyland series or David Brown equivalent lets you search accurately.
  
• Photograph critical assemblies: Transmission, engine block numbers, levers, and linkages help parts suppliers recognize compatibility.
  
• Join vintage tractor clubs or local restoration groups; the small-volume community often shares fabrication tips or even custom-made parts.
  
• Consider casting or CNC machining missing pieces—modern technologies like 3D scanning and milling can recreate obsolete parts with high precision.
  

• Compression pressure targets: For a healthy cylinder in this era’s British-made diesel, target compression may be around 300 psi (approx. 21 bar). Anything less suggests worn rings, leaky valves, or cylinder liner issues.
  
• Transmission component: The part that mates the transaxle and transmission housing may involve splines or a thrust bearing—flaws there can affect gear engagement and shifting.
  
• Engine suppliers: Though the engine’s brand name is slipping from memory, many British makes like Perkins or Rolls diesel systems were common. Checking serial numbers or casting marks could narrow it down.
  
• Restoration cost estimate: Engine rebuild may range from 3,000 to 8,000 USD depending on parts and labor; a remanufactured transmission component might cost 500 to 1,500 USD, or less if fabricated locally.
  

• Long (distributor): A mid-20th century distributor that re-branded imported tractors, especially from European manufacturers.
  
• Leyland: This British company was prolific in making agricultural tractors; its models were exported and often became donor units for rebranded equipment.
  
• David Brown: A well-known UK farm machinery maker; their tractors were favored for durability and are often sought by collectors.
  
• JCB: A modern giant in earthmoving, originally built on existing tractor chassis such as Leyland—an example of evolving design lineage.
  

The Historical Significance of the Cat 212
The Caterpillar 212 motor grader was introduced in the early 1950s as part of Caterpillar’s push to expand its road-building equipment lineup. Caterpillar Inc., founded in 1925, had already established itself as a leader in earthmoving machinery, and the 212 was designed to serve municipalities, contractors, and rural operators who needed a compact yet capable grader. With mechanical simplicity and robust steel construction, the 212 became a popular choice for snow removal, road maintenance, and light grading tasks.
By the mid-1950s, thousands of units had been sold across North America. The 212 featured a direct mechanical drive, manual blade controls, and a diesel engine that delivered consistent torque at low RPMs. Its open operator station and straightforward layout made it easy to maintain and repair, even in remote areas.
Terminology Annotation

• Throwout Bearing: A bearing that disengages the clutch when the pedal is pressed, allowing gear changes without engine shutdown.
  
• Dry Clutch: A clutch system that operates without oil lubrication, relying on friction between the clutch disc and flywheel.
  
• Oil Clutch: A clutch system immersed in oil, offering smoother engagement and longer service life.
  
• Engine Carriage: A fabricated frame or sled used to support and slide the engine during removal or installation.
  
• Linkage: Mechanical rods and levers that connect pedals or controls to the transmission or clutch.
  

• Provide engine and transmission casting numbers
  
• Measure bearing dimensions and spline counts
  
• Confirm clutch disc diameter and thickness
  
• Photograph the housing and linkage for reference
  

• Disconnect fuel, throttle, and clutch linkages
  
• Remove engine mounting bolts and slide engine back using rollers
  
• Inspect clutch disc, pressure plate, and flywheel for wear
  
• Replace throwout bearing and carrier
  
• Clean and lubricate all linkage pivots
  
• Reinstall engine and verify alignment
  
• Adjust clutch pedal free play and test engagement
  

• Store under cover to prevent rust and UV damage
  
• Grease all pivot points and blade controls regularly
  
• Use diesel stabilizer in fuel tank during off-season
  
• Maintain tire pressure and inspect for dry rot
  
• Document all repairs and modifications for future reference
  

Overview
When a Bobcat 863 F-Series loader shows no lights on the BICS (Bobcat Interlock Control System) module behind the seat—despite visible power to the harness—the machine remains locked and unusable. This issue disrupts primary functions such as traction unlocking, lift, and tilting. Understanding the interlock system and its diagnostic signals is key to resolving the problem efficiently.
Understanding the BICS Interlock System
The BICS serves as an electronic safety interlock, ensuring operations like traction unlocking, lift, and tilt are only enabled when safety conditions are met—such as the seat bar being down or the operator pushing the "Press to Operate" button. It relies on:

• Safety switches (seat bar, foot brake)
  
• Traction lock solenoid and its pull/hold circuits
  
• Fuses, relays, ground connections
  
• BICS module and harness wiring
  

• If there’s power at the BICS harness but no module lights, start by checking all fuses and battery condition. Corroded or loose connectors, faulty ground points, or ignition switch issues are common culprits.
  
• On similar F-Series issues, traction lock is governed by a two-stage process: first a "pull" circuit activates the brake solenoid, followed by a "hold" circuit maintaining it. Failure in either can disable the interlock, and the BICS module typically signals this with a corresponding sequence of flashes.
  

1. Battery, Ground, and Fuse Inspection
   Even if power is present at one point, loose battery cables or blown fuses (including the main 150-amp fuse) can prevent the BICS module from powering its lights. Ensuring solid connections is the first step.
   
2. Wiring and Connector Health
   Corrosion, poor fitting plugs, or damaged harness sections often leave the system energized at one point but dead at the module. Clean connectors and ensure firm plug engagement.
   
3. Interlock Switches and Overrides
   With missing seat switches (as often found on F-Series), operators use a traction override (green "Press to Operate") button. If this switch fails, no light or action follows. Inspect it for continuity and wiring integrity.
   
4. Solenoid and Brake Circuit Testing
   Test the pull and hold circuits of the traction lock solenoid. As community experts shared:
   • The pull circuit (red to ground) should measure approximately 0.3–0.6 ohm.
     
   • The hold circuit (white to ground) should read around 10–11 ohms.
     If the coil is faulty or the BICS isn’t sending a proper signal, this will result in no unlocking of the machine and no module illumination.
     
5. BICS Controller Integrity
   If power, wiring, and inputs are verified, the BICS module itself may be failing internally. Replacement or professional diagnostics may be necessary.
   

• Confirm battery power and clean all ground connections.
  
• Inspect and test all relevant fuses and main supply wiring.
  
• Clean and secure BICS connectors and harness.
  
• Verify functionality of the traction override (green push-to-operate) switch.
  
• Measure traction lock coil resistances (pull and hold circuits).
  
• If everything checks out electrically, suspect the BICS control module.
  

Mining has always demanded machinery capable of moving enormous volumes of earth and rock, and over the past century, excavators have evolved from modest digging machines into towering giants. These massive hydraulic and electric-powered excavators are not only feats of engineering but also symbols of industrial progress.
Development of Mining Excavators
The earliest mining excavators emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, often powered by steam. They were bulky and slow but offered a level of efficiency that far surpassed manual labor. As diesel engines and hydraulic systems were introduced in the mid-20th century, the machines became faster, stronger, and more versatile. By the 1970s and 1980s, companies like Komatsu, Hitachi, Caterpillar, and Liebherr had begun producing ultra-class excavators capable of operating in some of the harshest mining conditions on Earth.
Key Features of Modern Giants
Modern mining excavators often exceed 800 tons in operating weight, with buckets that can hold 40 to 50 cubic meters of material in a single scoop. Some of the largest models, such as the Komatsu PC8000 or the Liebherr R9800, can load a 240-ton haul truck with just four or five passes. Their engines deliver power in the range of 3,500 to 4,000 horsepower, consuming thousands of liters of fuel per day. Advanced hydraulic systems allow for precise control despite the massive size of the equipment.
Production and Sales Figures
The global demand for mining excavators is tied closely to the commodities market. For example, Liebherr’s R9800, introduced in 2009, has sold more than 60 units worldwide, with major deployments in Australia’s coal mines and Canada’s oil sands. Komatsu’s PC8000 has become a mainstay in iron ore and copper operations, with hundreds of units working in countries like Brazil, Chile, and South Africa. Hitachi’s EX8000, another ultra-class machine, has also seen strong global adoption, particularly in Asia and North America.
The Companies Behind the Machines
Liebherr, founded in 1949 in Germany, began as a crane manufacturer before expanding into earthmoving and mining machinery. Today it is one of the largest privately-owned equipment manufacturers in the world. Komatsu, established in Japan in 1921, grew rapidly after World War II and is now the second-largest construction equipment manufacturer after Caterpillar. Hitachi, founded in 1910, has long combined expertise in electronics and engineering, creating advanced excavators with strong emphasis on hydraulic efficiency. Caterpillar, an American icon formed in 1925, remains a dominant force in mining with a wide range of haul trucks, loaders, and excavators.
Applications in Mining
These colossal machines are designed for surface mining operations where efficiency and productivity are critical. They are most commonly deployed in coal, iron ore, gold, and copper mines. In operations like the oil sands of Alberta, Canada, their productivity has transformed how resources are extracted. A single machine can move millions of cubic meters of material annually, drastically reducing operational costs per ton.
Challenges and Maintenance
Operating such equipment comes with unique challenges. Regular maintenance is essential, with major overhauls required every 20,000 to 30,000 operating hours. Components such as hydraulic pumps, undercarriage systems, and bucket teeth wear quickly under harsh conditions. Failures can cost mining companies millions of dollars in downtime, which is why predictive maintenance using sensors and telematics has become increasingly common.
Innovation and Future Trends
With growing global emphasis on sustainability, manufacturers are exploring hybrid and electric-powered excavators to reduce emissions. Autonomous operation is another frontier. Several companies are testing remote-controlled and semi-autonomous excavators, allowing operators to control machines from safe distances or centralized hubs. These technologies not only enhance safety but also improve efficiency by reducing human error.
Stories from the Field
In Australia’s Bowen Basin coal fields, one Liebherr R9800 was reported to move over 70 million cubic meters of overburden within its first three years of operation, a performance that redefined benchmarks for open-cut mines. In Chile’s copper mines, Hitachi’s EX8000 units have been credited with increasing annual production capacity by more than 10 percent thanks to their consistent performance in high-altitude, dusty environments.
Conclusion
Giant mining excavators represent the pinnacle of heavy equipment engineering. They embody decades of innovation, industrial growth, and adaptation to the world’s growing demand for minerals and energy resources. As mining operations continue to expand and evolve, these machines will likely become even more advanced, with digital technology, automation, and greener power sources shaping the next generation of earth-moving giants.

The Massey Ferguson Industrial Line
Massey Ferguson, a brand with roots dating back to 1847, has long been a staple in agricultural and industrial machinery. By the mid-20th century, the company expanded its offerings to include rugged industrial tractors designed for construction, municipal work, and heavy-duty utility tasks. These machines were built on the foundation of Massey’s agricultural models but reinforced with heavier frames, loader-ready hydraulics, and industrial-grade transmissions.
The industrial variants—often designated with prefixes like MF 20, MF 30, or MF 40—were equipped with front-end loaders, backhoes, or grading blades. They were powered by Perkins diesel engines, known for their reliability and torque characteristics. Massey Ferguson sold tens of thousands of these units globally, with strong adoption in North America, Europe, and Australia.
Terminology Annotation

• Perkins Diesel Engine: A British-made engine widely used in Massey Ferguson tractors, known for its fuel efficiency and long service life.
  
• Loader Frame: A reinforced substructure designed to support front-end loader attachments.
  
• Hydraulic Control Valve: A component that directs pressurized fluid to cylinders for lifting, tilting, or steering.
  
• Draft Control: A system that adjusts the depth of rear-mounted implements based on soil resistance.
  
• Power Shuttle Transmission: A gearbox that allows directional changes without clutching, ideal for loader work.
  

• Hood shape and grille design
  
• Transmission type (manual vs shuttle)
  
• Loader mount style and hydraulic routing
  
• Rear axle configuration and tire size
  

• Hydraulic leaks from aged seals and hoses
  
• Electrical faults due to corroded wiring
  
• Fuel system contamination from sitting diesel
  
• Brake fade from worn linings or seized linkages
  
• Loader frame cracks from years of heavy use
  

• Use ISO 46 hydraulic fluid for moderate climates
  
• Replace suction and return filters annually
  
• Inspect loader cylinders for scoring and seal wear
  
• Bleed air from the system after hose replacement
  
• Avoid overloading the loader beyond rated lift capacity
  

• Clean all ground connections and battery terminals
  
• Test glow plugs with a multimeter for continuity
  
• Replace ignition switch if intermittent cranking occurs
  
• Use a heavy-duty battery with at least 750 CCA
  
• Install a manual override for glow plug preheat if needed
  

• Use SAE 80W-90 gear oil in the differential and final drives
  
• Check transmission fluid level monthly
  
• Inspect clutch linkage for free play and wear
  
• Replace worn shift forks or detents to prevent gear slippage
  

• Perkins engine rebuild kits
  
• Loader cylinder seal kits
  
• Hydraulic control valve rebuild kits
  
• Brake shoes and linkages
  
• Electrical harnesses and switches
  

The Kobelco SK130UR represents a highly maneuverable hydraulic excavator engineered for mid-size construction tasks and tight working environments. “UR” denotes Ultra-Short Radius, meaning the tail swing is exceptionally compact—ideal for urban or confined job sites where room to operate is limited.
Kobelco Legacy
Kobelco Construction Machinery traces its roots through decades of innovation in Japan and worldwide. The company began with electric mining shovels and evolved into hydraulic excavators by the 1960s. It pioneered hybrid excavator technology at the turn of the millennium and now serves over a hundred countries through nearly five hundred dealer outlets. Known for durability and innovation, Kobelco continues to push boundaries in efficiency and design .
Key Specifications of the SK130UR
Here’s a refined list of core specs based on factory and used inventory data:

• Model year (example unit): circa 2000
  
• Engine: A-BG1T, producing approximately 85 hp (around 63 kW) from a 4.3 L 4-cylinder unit
  
• Operating weight: roughly 13 400 kg
  
• Dimensions:
  • Length: about 7.44 m
    
  • Width: around 2.49 m
    
  • Height: around 2.73 m
    
• Bucket capacity: approximately 0.45 m³
  
• Hydraulic system: dual piston pumps
  
• Travel speed: approximately 3.5 km/h to 6.0 km/h
  
• Swing speed: roughly 11.7 rpm
  
• Maximum digging reach (center): about 7.57 m
  
• Maximum dumping height: around 6.05 m
  
• Arm crowding force and bucket digging force: high enough for demanding mid-size digging tasks
  

• Ultra-Short Radius (UR): A design that greatly reduces rear overhang, enabling swift swings without risk of hitting obstacles.
  
• Operating weight: Includes the machine and its standard equipment—an indicator of ground pressure and stability.
  
• Piston pumps: High-efficiency hydraulic pumps driving boom, arm, and swing operations with responsive power delivery.
  

• Operational Setting: Ideal for urban construction, utility work in narrow trenches, and landscaping with restricted access.
  
• Clearance Margin: Though ultra-compact, maintain at least 0.5 m buffer behind the rear tail to prevent unintended contact during swing.
  
• Service Checklist: Yearly hydraulic filter changes and regular checks on swing bearing preload extend uptime and reduce wear.
  
• Efficiency Tip: Engage economy mode (if available), which reduces idle RPMs to cut fuel consumption—especially helpful during extended waiting periods on site.
  

• Exceptional Maneuverability: Ultra-short radius design excels in tight sites.
  
• Balanced Power: 85 hp engine and hydraulic setup deliver dependable performance in its class.
  
• Solid Design: Durable components and widespread service networks promote long-term use.
  
• Efficient Operation: Less repositioning required, saving time and fuel.
  
• Operator Friendly: Compact dimensions and responsive controls enhance comfort and productivity.