Volvo is the machine of choice at FJ Morris Contracting

FJ Morris Contracting Ltd of Towcester Northamptonshire has added a further 2 Volvo EC18D compact excavators to its plant fleet which have been supplied by Volvo Construction Equipment’s utility dealer SM Plant Ltd. 

The latest additions brings the total of Volvo compact excavators to 8 machines ranging from 1.5 to 5.5 tonnes in operating weight, affirming that the Volvo product is the machine of choice when it comes to compact excavators according to FJ Morris’ fleet manager Dave Gammon. “We’ve operated Volvo compact excavators in the fleet since 2001 so we are more than happy with the pedigree of the product in terms of reliability, productivity and operator acceptance,” says Mr Gammon. “We are equally happy with the support we receive from SM Plant Ltd for parts and service.”

The brace of Volvo EC18D’s powered by a 12.3Kw (16.8hp) engine have been supplied with ROPS and FOPS canopies as opposed to full cabs providing easier access and egress for the operators, hydraulically extending undercarriage and automatic two speed tracking. The hammer / shear circuit comes as standard on all Volvo compact excavators. One significant feature on the EC18D is that the hydraulic hoses for the digging equipment are routed through the boom and cylinders are top mounted to minimize on-site damage. The 1.8 tonne compact excavator also benefits from load-sensing hydraulic system for fast cycle times, even when carrying out multiple functions. The 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 the main control valve. F J Morris Contracting have also equipped the machines with security options to deter theft and these include CESAR which has been installed by SM Plant who are a Datatag approved dealer and Etouch.

Associated Businesses

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