Comdain Gas maintain northern Victoria’s gas supply network. This maintenance can mean call outs at any hour and requires versatile equipment to be able to quickly affect repairs.
“To achieve our goals, we need equipment that is ready to go when we are” says Ned Wilkie of Comdain Gas Shepparton Branch. “We require compact machines that can manage the big jobs and that’s where Kubota’s B26 tractor/loader/backhoe (TLB) combination shines. Comdain started with the original B20 TLB’s progressing through to the B21 and now on to the B26 - all delivering excellent reliability” explained Ned.
Kubota tractors are renowned for their versatility and performance and the recently released Kubota B26 TLB continues to offer operators these benefits. With more horse power than the previous model, the B26 has increased digging performance and increased front end loader lifting capacity. The versatility of this highly manoeuvrable, combination TLB effectively makes the B26 three machines in one. Whether the job calls for a tractor with three point linkage, a backhoe, or loader applications, the B26 can accommodate all three applications. The B26 also has a sleek, modern design that improves operator visibility and offers a skid steer-type quick hitch on the loader for convenient adaptation of other tools.
The B26 is powered by a 26 horsepower Kubota diesel engine offering a combination of high torque rise, low noise and vibration and cleaner emissions. In addition to the high output, the liquid cooled engine conserves fuel to lower operating costs. Based on a reinforced, integrated main frame, the B26 has an uncompromising ability to tackle the repetitive work of loader backhoe operations.
Another feature enhancing overall performance is the easy to use hydrostatic transmission system (HST). Low effort is required for the single HST pedal to control both speed and direction changes quickly and without any clutching or shifting of gears. Forward and reverse movements are simple when using the loader for optimum control when working in tight spaces.
The B26 is engineered for performance utilising a braceless loader frame for improved forward visibility and easier under-the-hood access to the innovative backhoe mount system.
Loader lift height is 2400mm to the bucket pivot pin and a lift capacity is 590kg at the pins. Ned Wilkie says “The general design of the loader with it’s mechanical spill guard, built-in loader valve and all hosing and pipe work protected by being enclosed within the loader frame are a real benefit. Our operators can easily check the bucket level using the indicator located on the loader arm, and the position of the joystick together with the armrest make operating easy and comfortable.” B26 TLB’s are available with either a standard or an optional 4:1 bucket.
The B26 backhoe is built to be more versatile while offering in excess of 1900kg breakout force. The backhoe has a maximum digging depth of over 2400mm. The curved design of the boom allows operators to easily navigate around obstacles and achieve maximum digging depth with a minimum trench cut. With this type of boom design trucks are easily loaded with the B26. All of this power and precise movement of the dipper arm and boom through a high performance inching valve make the B26 ideal for finishing work. As with the loader all hosing and piping of the backhoe are enclosed for protection.
When asked for a comment of the versatility of the Kubota B26 Ned said “We very rarely have a need for bigger machinery as the Kubota B TLBs can do just about anything we ask of them. Whether it is digging up a road or a backyard the power of the backhoe can handle the job and the front end loader with our 4 in1 bucket attachment means back filling or loading trucks is easy.”
To top off the versatility of the B26 the backhoe is a quick detach type. In a matter of minutes the B26 can be transformed from a backhoe unit to a tractor with three point linkage capable of being used for slashing, rotary hoeing or other general farm or maintenance chores. This optional three point linkage has a lifting capacity of 760kg 600mm behind the linkage pivot ball ends. All control levers required for three point linkage and PTO engagement are already mounted to the B26.
For further information, or the name of your nearest dealer, please ring freecall 1800-334-653, or log on to www.kubota.com.au.
