S & S Plant has taken delivery of the very first Mecalac TLB890 backhoe loader featuring next-generation Active Drive technology. The unit was sold by Aberdeenshire-based Balgownie Ltd, Mecalac’s approved dealer for the Northern Scottish mainland and Outer Hebrides.
Productive, cost effective and flexible, the TLB890 combines the power of a wheel loader and the versatility of a compact excavator. Ideally suited to applications including civil engineering, highway maintenance, utilities and agriculture, the 110hp machine delivers fast cycle times and impressive operation economies.
Backhoe loaders are designed around the ability to quickly travel between work sites. As an addition to Servo Power Synchro transmission, all new Stage V-compliant Mecalac TLB890 models now feature Active Drive as an option. A new technology addition for 2019, Active Drive bypasses the torque converter to optimise responsiveness and efficiency in dynamic working conditions.
To coincide with the introduction of Stage V emissions legislation, the TLB890 now features Perkins’ Syncro engine platform. Alongside complying with both EU and US (EPA) regulations, this sees power output increase by 10% (to 82kw).
Garry Smith, Director at S & S Plant, took delivery of the backhoe in October and has been delighted with its performance ever since. He commented: “As a highly-experienced backhoe operator, I’ve owned numerous models from multiple manufacturers. The Mecalac TLB890 with Active Drive, however, has been the best to date by far.
“My clients want the job done quickly and to an excellent standard. Mecalac backhoes are renowned for their class-leading performance, so I knew investing in the latest model would deliver immediate benefits. The dipper is smooth, responsive and you can control it with your fingertips – it’s really enjoyable to operate!
“What’s more, as the distance between my job sites is often quite far, I wanted a fast model that didn’t compromise on low-end torque. Mecalac’s Active Drive technology, which bypasses the torque converter in third and fourth gear, is the perfect solution. I can now tackle hills with ease – my TLB890 takes them in its stride!”
