MST backhoe loaders have been recognised as the most suitable machines for demanding work at all levels of Government including municipalities.

According to Desmond van Heerden of ELB Equipment, distributor of MST backhoe loaders in South Africa, the multipurpose capabilities of the MST backhoe loader combined with its high specification level, durability and national support network has contributed towards the popularity of the machine in the private sector and, more recently, its capabilities have boosted it to the front of the queue on the Government’s national tender process.

Having passed all the criteria for suitability, durability, pricing and local support with flying colours, the MST backhoe loader is now establishing itself as the defacto machine across all tiers of Government. And the reasons for its popularity are easy to see when looking at its value offering in the 8–ton and above machine range, plug-and-play hydraulics for accessories such as hammers, multi-purpose buckets, augers and more, as well as a full array of easy to use features – including a fully automatic transmission.

Strong machine

“It is big and powerful enough to be used on road projects, trenches, land clearing operations, excavations, cleaning operations and almost any other type of work that our Government departments and municipalities may need. Simultaneously, it is simple enough to be serviced and maintained internally if need be and offers a level of sophistication usually associated with considerably more expensive top-tier machines.

“Yet, despite its high specification levels and heavyweight capabilities, the MST is priced among smaller, less well-equipped mid-tier machines. Furthermore, it is distributed and supported by our heavyweight South African supplier network, which means it can be procured, serviced and maintained properly across all corners of the country.

“What’s more, MST machines are manufactured in Europe to the highest global quality standards and are carefully specified to meet tough African conditions. They also make use of some of the world’s best components including a 74,5kW Perkins Motor and easy-to-operate Powershift transmission,” says Desmond.

Simple to operate

With 410Nm of useable torque the backhoe loader punches well above its weight for digging and loading operations, while its tier-three rated engine is similar to more expensive premium quality machines, is light on fuel with emissions far lower than accepted standards locally for construction equipment. It is also less sensitive on fuel quality requirements than complex common rail engine alternatives.

Its power combined with easy-to-operate features and a safe, modern cab contributes to improved efficiency, while its airconditioned, comfortable interior makes it a firm favorite among operators. This is further enhanced through ELB Equipment’s investment in operator familiarization training and assistance to get the best out of their machines. The company further invests in technical training of technician as well as entrenching health and safety best practices in Government workshops as part of its commitment to ensuring sustainable practices.

As a truly South African champion with roots that go back nearly 100 years in South Africa, ELB Equipment is also truly aware of the economic realities faced by some of the smaller municipalities and has even entered refurbishment and rebuilding programmes with some of these municipalities to give their equipment 2^nd, 3^rd and even 4^th lives to ensure residents receive uninterrupted service.

Local flavour

“We make it easy to deal with us and whether our equipment is being purchased by a Government entity or a private company, they are ensured of our utmost commitment to giving them the best possible equipment at a fair price and with service and support of the equipment that will last a lifetime.

“Over more than ten years our MST backhoe loaders have represented the kind of versatility required by Government with easy and uncomplicated operation, reliability and low running costs. This has contributed to its success and continues to make it an ideal addition to the fleet of South African municipalities and government departments,” concludes Desmond.

ELB Equipment, Desmond van Heerden, Tel: (011) 306 0700, Email:desmondv@elbquip.co.za, Web: www.elbequipment.co.za

MST 542 model backhoe loader

Engine 4.4L Perkins Engine

Power74.5kW

Torque410Nm at 1400RPM

Hydraulic capacity 150l/min at 1500RPM

Gearbox4-speed Powershift auto

Max Speed42KM/h

Operating weight8800kg

Front bucket volume (Std)1,2m³

Max lifting capacity at height3100kg

Front digger tattering power7734kg

Back bucket volume (Std)600mm

Back digger tattering power5523kg

Loading height4350mm

Dumping height2970mm

Max digging depth5907mm

Prepared on behalf of ELB Equipment, Retha Lombard, PR officer, Tel: (011) 306 0725, Email: rethal@elbquip.co.za, Web: www.elbequipment.com

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Media Savvy Communications, Raymond Campling, Tel: (011) 973 0108, Email: media@mediasavvy.biz