Original JCB 7 excavator joined by modern counterpart

Scotland-based plant hire company D&I Bain has added a new JCB 150X HD excavator to its fleet, which joins one of the world’s last remaining original 1966 JCB 7 models.

D&I Bain’s new 150X HD model (right) alongside the original 1966 JCB 7 excavator (left).

Located in Muir Of Ord in the Scottish Highlands near Inverness, D&I Bain was established in the early 1960s by father and son team David and Ian Bain. The company, which has bought over 40 JCB machines to date, specialises in forestry and local council work, offering both contracted works and plant hire.

Part of Cat’s X-Series, the 150X HD was supplied by local dealer Scot JC and will be used on projects such as roadworks. It has an operating weight of 15 tonnes and is fitted with Stage V JCB EcoMAX engine.

Equipped with a wider cab that reduces noise by up to 68%, the 150X HD has modern styling and durable strike points for a lower cost of ownership. In addition to extended service intervals, the model also has wider high-flow pipework that reduces system losses and boosts efficiency.

Garry Bain, Director at D&I Bain, said, “We wanted something heavier and “beefier” than a 13-tonne machine but not as big as the 220X. The hydraulics in the 150X HD are very smooth. The cab is very well laid out and it’s very comfortable to operate. JCB machines fit the bill for us perfectly. They’re built in the UK, our local dealer is ten minutes down the road and they perform excellently on our type of work.”

The new purchase continues the company’s long relationship with JCB. D&I Bain bought its first JCB – a 3C Mark 1 – in 1964; and the company’s classic 1966 JCB 7 excavator model is currently on display at its headquarters after being fully restored. Purchased at auction, the JCB 7 is believed to be one of only seven of its kind in the world. Offering speed options of 1.0 or 2.25mph and still retaining its original sealed for life track rollers and cab safety glass, it remains in working order after 10,000 hours of work.

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