FIRST DRIVE // TAKEUCHI TB325R Below and inset: The latest addition to the Takeuchi range is the 2.5-tonne class, reduced radius TB325R mini-excavator.
“THE NEW TB325R HAS BARELY ANY REAR OVERHANG, JUST A MEASLY 70MM WHEN WORKING AT 90 DEGREES TO THE TRACK FRAME”
TIGHT FIT TAKEUCHI
Nick Drew reports from the cab of Takeuchi’s new 2.5-tonne class reduced radius mini-excavator apanese compact excavator manufacturer Takeuchi continues the roll-out of its ultra-low emissions Series 3 machines. Following hot on the heels of the TB370 model is the
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all-new TB325R, a reduced tailswing 2.5-tonner. It is the natural replacement for the extremely popular, but now discontinued Takeuchi TB23R mini, over 1200 examples of which have been sold to UK customers since its launch back in 2004. Although marketed as a reduced radius machine, the new TB325R has barely any rear overhang, just a measly 70mm when working at 90 degrees to the track frame. Complete with a hitch and a standard bucket, a cabbed TB325R weighs in at 2440kg, or 2310kg in canopy form. Such near zerotailswing minis, which can be towed under a 3.5t gross weight limit, are extensively used by utility contractors, and plant hire firms report growing demand from ever-more congested sites.
IN THE CAB Cheshire-based Scott’s Hire kindly supplied a brand new TB325R for my First Drive, which was conducted within the facilities of Greater Manchester Construction Training (GMCT) in Rochdale. My first impression is that the TB325R has a far more pleasing look than the outgoing TB23R model that, despite its popularity, was a bit of an oddball in the Takeuchi range in terms of its styling. I was impressed at the way the cab door folds back into its locked open position within the recessed counterweight and lower side skirt, to protect the open door from any accidental damage. Unfortunately, I found the door opening to be on the tight side. Considering that I’m a little fella, it was a bit of a squeeze to get in. However, once ensconced in the comfy suspension seat, the cab felt roomy enough for such a compact swing excavator. Although NOVEMBER 2021
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EARTHMOVERS
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16/09/2021 15:57
