1.5T EXCAVATOR

Bobcat E17 1.5T Mini Digger: Agile Power for Confined Spaces

The Bobcat E17 is a high-performing compact excavator (mini digger) with an operating weight typically around 1.7 tonnes. It's engineered to provide exceptional digging power and agile movements, making it perfectly suited for tasks ranging from detailed landscaping to digging foundations and utility trenches, particularly where space is at a premium.

Features

• Compact Size with Retractable Undercarriage: A standout feature of the E17 is its hydraulically retractable undercarriage. This allows the track width to be hydraulically contracted from its wider operating width (e.g., 136 cm) down to a narrow 98 cm. This feature is crucial for navigating through narrow gateways, tight garden paths, or between buildings, then expanding for increased stability during operation.
• Reduced Tail Swing Design: The E17 features a reduced tail swing design. While not a true zero-tail-swing (ZTS) model, its minimal rear overhang provides enhanced versatility and manoeuvrability in compact job sites, reducing the risk of accidental contact with surrounding obstacles when rotating.
• Powerful & Efficient Kubota Engine: Typically powered by a reliable Kubota D722-E4B 3-cylinder diesel engine, delivering around 10.2 kW (13.7 hp or 13.9 PS). This engine provides ample power for digging and tracking, known for its fuel efficiency and compliance with modern emission standards.
• Impressive Digging Performance: Despite its compact footprint, the E17 offers significant digging capabilities:
  • Maximum Digging Depth: Approximately 2.25 meters (7ft 4.5in).
  • High Breakout Force: Designed to deliver excellent bucket and arm breakout forces (e.g., around 9.11 kN for tear-out force), enabling efficient excavation of tough materials.
• Operator Comfort and Control: The operator's station is designed for productivity and reduced fatigue:
  • Ergonomic Controls: Features hydraulic joystick controls that provide smooth, fluid, and precise operation of the boom, arm, and bucket.
  • Spacious Cab/Canopy Options: Available with either an open canopy (ROPS/TOPS/FOGS certified) or a fully enclosed cabin option (often with heating and ventilation), ensuring operator comfort in varying weather conditions.
  • Adjustable Components: Operator seat and armrests are typically adjustable for optimal comfort.
• Robust & Durable Construction: Bobcat machines are known for their rugged build quality. The E17 is constructed with durable components and materials to withstand the rigours of daily construction work, ensuring long-term reliability and reduced downtime.
• Two-Speed Travel: Allows operators to choose between a slower, precise working speed and a faster travel speed (up to 4.7 km/h) for quick repositioning around the job site, enhancing overall efficiency.
• Integrated Dozer Blade: Comes with a standard dozer blade at the front, which is ideal for backfilling trenches, levelling surfaces, and enhancing machine stability during digging operations.
• Attachment Versatility: The E17 is highly adaptable and compatible with a wide range of Bobcat attachments, including various digging buckets (e.g., 300mm, 450mm, 600mm, grading), hydraulic breakers, augers, and grapples, significantly expanding its functionality for diverse tasks.
• Excellent Serviceability: Designed with easy access to service points, simplifying routine maintenance and checks, which helps minimize downtime and keep the machine operational.

Applications

The Bobcat E17 1.5T Mini Digger is a versatile machine suitable for a broad spectrum of jobs, including:

• Landscaping: Digging trenches for irrigation, foundations for sheds/patios, ponds, tree planting, and general garden renovation.
• Building & Construction: Excavating foundations for extensions, digging footings, utility trenches (water, gas, electric), and site preparation.
• Utility Works: Installing and repairing underground services in urban and suburban areas.
• Demolition: Small-scale demolition of concrete, brickwork, and other structures.
• Confined Access Sites: Its retractable undercarriage makes it ideal for properties with narrow gates or limited access.
• Rental Fleets: Its reliability, ease of use, and versatility make it a popular choice for plant hire companies.