Mini but Mighty

The brand new 25Z-1 is the latest addition to JCB’s range of compact excavators. Powered by an EU Stage V engine, the zero tailswing model boasts a redesigned cab, improved dig-end geometry and electro-proportional auxiliary, swing and dozer controls. Despite the compact dimensions, the first of these brand-new machines are now reaching customers and making a big impression.

Philip Wilson Land Drainage was established in 1969 by Philip Wilson and is now run by his son Jeff from its Crumlin base in Northern Ireland. The company specialises in land drainage work for the agricultural industry as well as commercial and domestic work across Northern Ireland.

The company prides itself on its excellent customer service and the fact all of its business is garnered through word of mouth and repeat business is testament to that approach. Integral to this is regular investment in the latest up to date machinery which is purchased specifically for its reliability, versatility and suitability for the task in hand.

Philip Wilson Land Drainage’s latest purchase, the brand new JCB 2.5 tonne mini excavator, is the first JCB 25Z-1 in Northern Ireland and was chosen by Jeff as the machine’s compact size, zero tailswing and the ability to be towed make it the perfect choice for the company’s complex and varied work.

Trusted To Deliver

While the company was established in 1969 as a one-man operation hired out to bigger firms such as McAlpine, Langs, Wimpey and Farrens, Philip Wilson Land Drainage has since expanded to undertake larger drainage projects and today runs a fleet of over 20 machines.

The brand new JCB 25Z-1 joins a JCB 56Z-2 compact excavator, JCB 8008 micro excavator, JCB 160-100 double drum compaction roller and a JCB 531-70 Loadall telescopic hander in Philip Wilson Land Drainage’s impressive fleet. Owner Jeff Wilson is confident the new machine will prove to be as solid an investment as its predecessors.

Philip Wilson Land Drainage Owner, Jeff Wilson said: “We buy JCB because they are reliable and the back-up and service from Dennison JCB is excellent." 

Jeff  Wilson | Philip Wilson Land Drainage Owner

Compact Capability

Given the diverse range of services that Philip Wilson Land Drainage can turn its hand to - from muck shifting to hedge and tree cutting, water pipe and cable laying and subsoiling grassland, to name a few - machines which are versatile are vital to the company’s success. This means machinery which can seamlessly move from job to job and can work effectively in even the tightest of spaces.

With an overall width of 1,500mm, the 25Z-1 tips the scales at just 2,550kg. The machine can be towed behind a van or a 4x4 on a 3.5 tonne trailer, making it easy to move the excavator between job sites. It is equipped with nine tie-down points, for secure transportation without chains or straps cutting into rubber tracks.

As Jeff Wilson said: “We’re keen to invest in zero tailswing as a lot of the work we do is in very compact areas, so this was a key feature for us. We also needed a machine which we could tow behind a pick-up which again the JCB can do so it’s the perfect machine for our requirements.”

Small But Perfectly Formed

From its humble beginnings with a single operator, Philip Wilson Land Drainage has built its reputation on providing quality services that surpass its small size. Much like its brand new JCB 2.5 tonne mini excavator – a true force to be reckoned with that belies its compact stature.