Editor at Large: Visiting JCB in Savannah, operating the new 86C mini ex

You don’t have to twist my arm to visit Savannah, and it doesn’t take much convincing to spend a day operating equipment with a global trendsetter like JCB. Last week, JCB invited Benjamin Media and Compact Equipment down to its North American headquarters in Savannah to get an exclusive peak at its new 8-metric ton mini excavator — the mighty 86C.

The 86C is the first model in a complete revamp of JCB’s mini excavator product line, and if the rest of the models are anything like the 86C, you can just categorize us as impressed. The 86C is tough: The bodywork on this compact excavators is made exclusively from pressed steel with no plastic, so it’s strong and easy to repair. It’s powerful: The new 8T range has a JCB Diesel by Kohler Stage IIIB/Tier 4 Final compliant engine that boasts 64 hp at just 2,200 rpm, 300Nm of torque and no DPF. And it’s comfortable: The cab is incredibly spacious and its large door provides easy, safe access. Inside, you’ll find 6 percent more space than before, plenty of storage, a phone tray, stowage nets and cup holder. Oh, and there’s an option for a four-way dozer blade.

You’ll have to wait till our big January issue to get the full scoop, but until then enjoy these photos from our shoot last week. Not only did I get to operate the 86C, but JCB was kind enough to let me drive a slew of equipment, including the ultimate, badassery of the JCB HMEE (High Mobility Engineer Excavator). This backhoe, made for the U.S. military, is capable of getting up to 60 mph, but this editor only had enough room to get it up to about 45 mph (next time will be different). Big ole buckets of thanks to JCB for having us down.

 

For more info, visit JCB online right over here.