When it came to replacing its well-worn micro excavator, Holmfirth Building Services purchased a Yanmar ViO26-6 from local dealer MTS Plant. Since taking delivery of the new model, the fourth-generation firm has been delighted with the zero tail swing model’s impressive power, performance and stability.
Specifying the perfect solution
Established in 1921, Holmfirth Building Services is a multi-trade building contractor covering West Yorkshire and the surrounding areas. With a pedigree spanning almost a century, the team has significant experience across a wide range of complex tasks including stonemasonry, dry stone walling and bespoke joinery.
Rather than relying on third parties to support with specialist tasks, Holmfirth Building Services prides itself on having a dedicated team of hand-picked experts, each of whom specialise in a different trade. This not only keeps the client’s project under one roof, but also prevents unnecessary site delays.
For almost every job, having a capable excavator on hand to support with digging, earthmoving and heavy lifting tasks (such as excavating foundations, dry stone walling and dumper loading) is hugely important. Over the past few years, the team have relied on a second hand JCB micro excavator to do just that.
However, with such frequent use, as well as being responsible for most heavy site tasks, the unit was well worn and really showing its age. After reading about Yanmar’s class-leading range online, Business Owner Alex Simpson contacted MTS Plant, Yanmar’s approved dealer for Yorkshire, Lancashire, Cheshire and the central belt of Scotland (Glasgow/Edinburgh), to see if the time was right to invest in a state-of-the-art new replacement.
Following a visit to MTS and an introduction to each of Yanmar’s mini excavator models, Alex decided that the ViO26-6 was the ideal solution for Holmfirth Building Services’ needs and put in an order shortly afterwards.
Powerful, durable and comfortable, the ViO26-6 is perfectly suited to daily site operations. Thanks to Yanmar’s unique zero tail swing design, the model performs in even the tightest spaces, while its compact dimensions allow easy transportation (even with accessories) on a trailer.
A flow sharing hydraulics system ensures smooth control, while a large operator station with state-of-the-art instrumentation and ergonomic design makes the mini excavator comfortable and productive for the operator.
For Holmfirth Building Services, the ViO26-6 offered the complete package. While minimal customisation was required, Alex specified three bucket variations and a hydraulic quick hitch to ensure attachment changes could be undertaken from within the cab.
Delivering impressive results
Since taking delivery of the ViO26, Alex has been hugely impressed with the compact model. He commented: “Moving from a second hand JCB to the ViO26-6 has really been an eye-opener. Straightaway, we realised the dramatic increase in power, as well as the improved stability – even on rough and loose terrains.
“While many professionals grow up thinking that JCB is the best choice for excavators, I’d advise them to think again! The ViO26-6 looks smarter and more modern than other models in its class, it’s smooth and simple to operate, it’s designed to last and, best of all, it’s really easy to tow on a trailer.
“The Yanmar ‘full protect package’ has also proven particularly beneficial as, in the past, our excavator cylinders have been damaged by large pieces of stone. With heavy-duty cylinder guards, there’s no risk of that with the ViO26-6.”
Matt Watson, Director at MTS Plant, commented: “We’re pleased to hear such positive feedback from Alex and the Holmfirth Building Services team. From initial introduction through to purchase and aftersales, we worked in close partnership to deliver the best possible plant solution.
“For such a compact model, the ViO26-6 really does punch above its weight for power and performance. We’re confident that Alex will enjoy his new excavator for years to come.”
Alex concluded: “In my experience, if you do a good job, people tend to have you back. The ViO26-6 will help us to continue delivering excellent projects for our customers across West Yorkshire.”
