Brandon Bobcat sees immediate productivity gains from LiuGong investment

Images: Prime Creative Media

Since its introduction in about 2017, the 909E CR excavator made by Chinese manufacturer LiuGong has established itself as a key addition to the manufacturer’s line-up of compact radius excavators.

Designed to fill a gap in the 8–10 tonne size class, it was released targeting the growing rental market.

This machine’s compact radius design allows for stability and versatility in applications ranging from road construction to inner-city projects, where space can be limited.

It’s an adaptable machine capable of using a wide variety of attachments — from buckets to hammers — making it a versatile tool carrier on the jobsite.

The 909E CR’s short tail swing and compact design enable safe and easy operation within confined spaces, helping contractors to improve efficiency while reducing damage risk and operational downtime.

Its fuel-efficient, Tier 4F/Stage V certified Yanmar engine and hydraulic system have also contributed to enhanced operational precision and controllability, adding to its appeal in civil contracting and commercial construction sectors.

Digging it

For one Queensland earthmoving business, the LiuGong excavator has proven to be an eye-opener.

Brandon Donaldson of Brandon Bobcat & Excavator bought the model in July this year and has nothing but praise for its combination of power, precision and compact design.

Backed by 30 years of experience in the construction industry, Brandon started the business — based in the locality of Glenwood — in 2013, serving “all aspects of earthmoving”.

His fleet consists of about seven excavators from four-tonners to the 30t size, as well as a Dingo mini-digger, a Bobcat, a Posi-Track, a roller, a grader, a loader and a dozer.

“I knew LiuGong made front end loaders but didn’t know it also made excavators and other equipment until I saw one online this year, when looking for a new machine,” Brandon said.

Fortunately for Brandon, having a close-up look at the excavator was no problem because LiuGong Australia had at the same time opened a new dealership site at Wacol in Brisbane, one of three new Construction Distribution Australia (CDA) sites established across the country.

Backed by the McIntosh Group, they add and further support the brand’s network of about 80 dealers located around the country, as well as local parts depots and product support staff.

“I was able to go to Wacol to find out more and the CDA Queensland Territory Manager Damien McCormick filled me in. I was impressed with their warranty and service and it was also competitively priced with everything I wanted in the package,” Brandon said.

“He was actually good enough to get the machine delivered so I could trial it. I don’t think that happens too often.

“I was very happy with the service and the trial, and I ended up purchasing the machine.

“This was my first LiuGong machine and I wanted to make sure it was perfect for our jobs. After about 200 hours of work so far, I have no complaints.”

What specifically does Brandon like about the 909E CR?

“It’s fast, precise and good on fuel, while being nice and quiet,” he said.

The cab, designed with operator comfort as a priority, was also a big winner with Brandon.

“The soundproofed, ROPS/FOPS-certified cab creates a comfortable environment for long shifts.

“The cab interior is spacious with a large entrance for easy access, and ergonomically designed low-effort joysticks and controls help reduce operator fatigue.”

The inclusion of an air suspension seat further enhances comfort, allowing operators to maintain productivity throughout the workday.

Visibility is excellent with 360-degree views and the addition of a rear camera, improving safety and situational awareness on the site.

Brandon said the cab layout includes a clear, easy-to-read LCD monitor that allows operators to control and diagnose machine operations, including pressure and flow adjustments on dual auxiliary hydraulic circuits.

“The screen interface is user-friendly, simplifying the management of attachments and machine settings on the go,” he said.

“It’s got good air conditioning, good Bluetooth stereo, a comfy seat and a gull-wing window that folds up, providing better visibility and communication, especially in confined spaces.

“It’s a good cab compared to a lot of other diggers. I’ve driven them all, and it’s quite impressive.”

The 909E CR benefits from a longer stick, which extends reach and dig depth, enabling efficient excavation work without the need to reposition frequently.

This feature, combined with the optional power tilt coupler or quick coupler, offers versatility in handling a variety of attachments such as buckets, breakers, mulchers and mowers, boosting operational flexibility.

Despite its capabilities, the 909E CR maintains a compact radius design. Its short tail swing and close radius allow safe and easy operation in confined spaces, minimising the risk of damage to the machine or nearby structures.

The boom swing functionality enables trenching parallel to obstacles with minimal repositioning, ideal for working alongside foundations or other site features.

“I also like the way the fuel tank’s protected. It’s a good, tidy compact machine,” Brandon said.

“Overall, the machine’s capability to reach deep excavation depths and maintain operational stability under tough conditions makes it a great choice for operators like me who want a balance of power, precision and efficiency in their fleet.

“I’ll definitely be back for another LiuGong or more.”

Distinguished service

Damien said CDA/McIntosh Holdings has had a relationship with LiuGong, both as dealer and importer in Western Australia, for more than 20 years.

“Recently LiuGong Australia tasked CDA with the same responsibility on the eastern seaboard,” he said.

“Since this time CDA has been busy developing the dealer and support network to ensure LiuGong owners have the backup and support demanded by the waste, mining and construction industries.”

Damien said Brandon had reached out to him to investigate potential purchase alternatives to the traditional Japanese or American brands of machinery, aiming to update his excavator fleet with more efficient and reliable equipment.

He said Brandon was impressed with the 909ECR, in particular the standard features that other suppliers only provided as options.

“We only had to add a Doherty Tilt Hitch to this excavator for Brandon’s needs,” he said.

“He won’t have to worry too much about the service backup as well.

“In terms of repairs, backup, parts and overall service, the CDA dealer network consists of 63 dealers (and growing), with our main parts stores in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth.”

While Brandon only has that sole LiuGong excavator at the moment, Damien expects the business to acquire up to two additional units in the next 12 months.

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