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Name: Allclass Brisbane
Address: 16 Parade Ground Place, Wacol, Brisbane, QLD, 4076, AU
Telephone: 1300 255 252
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Track Loader Maintenance

Track Loader Maintenance Tips

Kubota track loader moving earth on a field

A track loader is one of the most useful and versatile tools for construction projects, with increased capacity compared to skid steer loaders and improved capability over soft terrain. However, they require special care to prevent downtime and ensure reliable service.

Like practically any modern motorised equipment, if you want it to perform optimally at all times, you need to maintain your track loader properly. A well-maintained machine will save you thousands in repairs and replacements. Here is a short guide with hints and tips on keeping your track loader in top shape.

Undercarriage

The undercarriage should be cleaned on a regular basis, ideally daily. When you’re working in an environment full of abrasive materials like clay and gravel, the undercarriage should be cleaned several times a day. Abrasive materials can damage key components of the undercarriage.

Tracks

You should check and adjust your track tension on a regular basis. If the track is too tight, the undercarriage will wear prematurely. If it’s too loose, you’ll get a ratcheting effect where the track drive lugs will jump over the sprocket rollers, also resulting in premature wear of the undercarriage.

Don’t allow the sidewall of the tracks to rub against hard surfaces while in operation. This also leads to premature wear and can result in track failure. Fluids like oil and grease should be removed from the tracks immediately, as they’re bad for the rubber.

Idlers and rollers, while sealed and lubricated permanently, will eventually wear out. These, along with sprockets and tracks should be checked regularly and replaced when they show signs of excessive wear. To get the best quality service for the lowest price, any repairs and replacements should be conducted at an accredited centre.

Chassis

Track loaders are uniquely qualified to operate in harsh soil conditions, so it’s important to check the chassis to ensure all covers, doors, belly pans and shields are in good condition and securely fastened. The chassis should be kept clear of debris and cleaned every day in most cases. Cleaning the chassis prevents catastrophic failures due to the accumulation of foreign materials or overheating from plugged radiators.

Track Motors and Final Drives

Regularly check the oil on the planetary side of the final drive. Check the oil levels in your final drive or track motor every 100 hours of operation, changing the oil out at least once a year. Drain water and sediment from the fuel tank and filter every 50 hours.

You should also check the case drain filter every 500 hours and replace it when you install a rebuilt or new drive. If the case drain filter gets clogged, it causes an extreme build-up of pressure in the final drive, resulting in expensive damage.

Other General Maintenance

In addition to the above, here are some other general maintenance tips. You should always check with your equipment manual above anything and follow their recommended schedule. Alternatively, you can contact an expert with your brand of equipment.

At the start of every day:

Check the engine oil and hydraulic fluid levels
Make sure the cooling system has enough coolant and the radiator is clean
Check hydraulic hoses and lines for damage or leaks
Check for any loose nuts and bolts in the undercarriage.
Check the battery, cables, connections and electrolyte level

Maintenance can be time-consuming but it is worth it to keep your track loader running smoothly and to prevent unnecessary downtime and repair costs.

Talk to Allclass Constructions

If you need construction machinery in Brisbane, get in touch with the team at Allclass Construction Equipment. We are a 5-star service centre for Kubota machines, and we offer a range of high quality new and used construction machinery.

For new or used construction equipment, call us on 1300 255 252 or contact us online.

Posted by Allclass Construction on April 10, 2017

Buying Equipment

Choosing a Construction Equipment Supplier

Yellow bull dozer driving down quarry road

Construction projects require the use of complex and heavy machinery on a daily basis. Each project needs specific tools and equipment, many of which are bought or hired out from a construction supplier. Some procurement officers and engineers fail to select the appropriate machinery for the job, causing delays, creating an unsafe environment and adding unnecessary costs.

Sourcing your construction equipment from a reputable, reliable and knowledgeable supplier will help you avoid mishaps in your project. Here are some factors to consider when you’re looking for a construction equipment supplier.

Equipment Is Tested and Well-Maintained

A good construction equipment supplier will ensure any used machinery is in optimal condition and ready for safe use. They will also advise you about what machinery or equipment attachments are most suited to a project or conditions.

This is crucial when it comes to projects involving excavation and digging, where excavators must be well-maintained to safely transport debris. Quality suppliers will place importance on maintaining their machinery with genuine parts and have their equipment repaired by accredited centres.

Equipment Brand and Age

A reputable supplier will generally supply machinery and equipment from well-known brands like Kubota. Another point to consider is whether they are using new, up-to-date equipment, with a fresh inventory every four to eight years. Replacing machinery at the appropriate time helps prevent costly on-site breakdowns.

Whether a supplier is updating their inventory can be determined by the brand they use. Authorised dealers tend to get the latest machinery and technologies as they enter the market. Authorised dealers also attend product seminars and build specialist knowledge about a particular brand and their equipment.

Good Service

A good construction supplier should offer quality service, being able to deliver equipment in a timely, efficient manner to prevent on-site delays. They should make assurances that if any equipment breaks down on site, it can be promptly resolved.

Good service means your supplier is knowledgeable, responsive and supportive. They should be able to talk you through the needs of your project, give you advice on what kind of equipment you need and run you through all the necessary safety and prestart checklists.

Knowledge and Experience

Knowledge and experience are crucial in a supplier but this is something that can be overlooked at times. It can be easy to assume that stocking and selling equipment doesn’t require a vast amount of knowledge, but it’s necessary when you’re providing advice and properly maintaining, diagnosing and repairing equipment.

The longer they’ve been in the industry the better. They should also aim to continuously build upon their knowledge by attending product training seminars. Highly trained and experienced technicians mean your project will have strong after-sales support and reduced downtime.

Allclass Construction Suppliers in Brisbane

With more than 100 years of combined experience, Allclass Construction Equipment is the ideal supplier for construction projects in the Brisbane area. We’re authorised Kubota dealers and are rated as a 5-star service centre for this brand. Our sales advisors are driven by offering high-quality service and value.

For new or used construction equipment, call us on 1300 255 252 or contact us online.

Posted by Allclass Construction on April 10, 2017

Buying Equipment, Excavator Attachments, Excavator Operation

Correct Use of ANT Tilt Hitches on Mini Excavators

Mini excavator digging the earth using ANT tilt hitch attached to mud bucket

The ANT Tilt hitch allows to you to do more than just digging. It is versatile and it gets the job done with minimal effort.

Today we’re going to explore some of the key features of the ANT Tilt Hitch as well as its various applications.

Features of the ANT Tilt Hitch

The ANT Tilt Hitch system lets you secure attachments quickly. It comes equipped with a hydraulic exchange and an automatic locking system. This means you won’t need to get out of the cab to attach your mud bucket.

The quick and straightforward pick-up process also makes it easy to exchange attachments as and when required. The hitch has a front safety latch and two coupler connections. It offers operators the perfect combination of strength and endurance.

Applications of an ANT Tilt Hitch

You can rotate attachments with the ANT Tilt Hitch, allowing you to reach hard-to-dig areas. It handles angle cutting and slope cutting and it can also shape the edges of the hole you’re digging. Unlike most other tilt hitches, the ANT Tilt Hitch offers you 180 degrees of tilt.

One of the most outstanding features of the tilt hitch system is that you can use it to perform tasks that require precision, such as digging or drilling close to utility lines. Simply rotate the hitch to prevent the attachment from hitting the power or gas lines.

You can also pair the hitch with a hydraulic grapple. It has excellent holding force, which makes it easy to pick up rocks or boulders from trenches.

The ANT Tilt Hitch features German engineered actuators and protected hose routings.

Proper Use of the Hitch

Never modify the hitch without getting in touch with the manufacturer. You should also avoid replacing original components with aftermarket parts or cheap substitutes. Make sure all the safety features of the hitch are in proper working order before using it.

Get the Best Excavator Parts

If you need high-quality excavator parts and attachments, talk to the professionals at Allclass Construction Equipment. We have been operating for more than two decades and we’re committed to bringing you the best excavators at an affordable price.

Whether you’re looking for new or used excavators, you’ll find them under our roof. We have three state-of-the-art service centres and we have received 5-star Kubota accreditation.

Our range also includes generators, engines, track loaders, trenchers and much more.

Call us on 1300 255 252 for a quick quote or ask us about our latest Kubota excavators for sale in Brisbane.

Posted by Allclass Construction on January 9, 2017

Excavator Checklists, Excavator Operation

Your Mini Excavator Prestart Checklist

It’s crucial to perform periodic safety checks on your equipment. Not only do daily inspections prevent accidents during machine operation, they also maximise efficiency and minimise costs.

To get you started here is our mini excavator prestart checklist.

Things to Do before Starting Your Mini Excavator

Walk around your mini excavator and look for cracks or dents on the exterior of the equipment.
Inspect various components of the excavator or mini loaderbody including the mounting holes, the bearing spacer, and the grease fitting. Keep an eye out for cracks or signs of wear and tear.
Search for leaks in the Hydraulic cylinder. Then, check the level of the engine oil, coolant, and hydraulic oil.
Remove the air and oil filters. Clean or replace them if required.
Check the area in front of the radiator. Dirt accumulates in this particular area and causes overheating problems.
Grease all hinge pins and bushings to cut down the cost of expensive repairs.
Make sure the mini excavator’s safety switches are in proper working order.
Next, get inside the cab. Always face the excavator and use the three-point contact to get in and out of the cab.
Turn on the equipment and listen for any unusual sounds or vibrations. The machine shouldn’t emit excessive exhaust fumes when it’s in operation.
It’s a good idea to look for leaks or emissions below the mini excavator or in the area in front of the operator’s seat.
Check the undercarriage components. Inspect the tracks, the drive sprocket, and the front idlers.
Check that the tracks have the right tension.
Test the indicator lights and the switches on the control panel.
Make sure there’s a fully operational fire extinguisher lying in the cab.
Clean the windshield and the heating and cooling vents.
Inspect the boom, arm, and bucket attachments for cracks or dents.
If the bucket teeth look worn out, replace the bucket. If you fail to do so, the mini-excavator will have to work much harder to perform everyday jobs.
Extend the arm and boom to determine if the machine is stable during operation. You must also lift the excavator blade and roll the machine forwards and backwards.
Perform a 360º rotation of the housing assembly.
Refer to the equipment’s safe working limits before beginning any new task.

If you perform these checks daily, you’re less likely to encounter problems when you operate your equipment.

More Information on Mini Excavators

If you’re looking for high-performing mini excavators for sale in Brisbane, get in touch with Allclass Construction Equipment.

We have a broad range of mini excavators and excavator parts and we have been selling excavators for the past 20 years.

With our modern excavator workshops and rapid response vehicles, we can also minimise machine downtime.

Call us on 1300 255 252 if you’re looking for new or used constructions equipment in Brisbane. Our qualified and knowledgeable sales advisors will help you pick the perfect excavator for the job.

Posted by Allclass Construction on December 28, 2016

Excavator Checklists, Safety Checklist

Excavator Safety Checklist – What to Do before You Start

Engineers going through a safety checklist

Before your start operating any machinery, you must perform certain pre-start inspection checks. These checks can help you to prevent accidents on the work site and avoid unnecessary downtime. As well as this, they will enhance the overall life of your equipment!

As well as performing the necessary safety inspections, you should also maintain strict servicing schedules. Routine maintenance will prolong the life of your equipment and reduce operational costs. Always record the results of safety checks so you can refer to them if the need arises.

A Safety Checklist for Your Work Equipment

Walk around the equipment and check the work area. Make sure there’s enough space for the machine to carry out its work.
Before turning on the equipment, inspect the boom, the dipper arm, and the bucket. Look for any cracks or dents. Make sure the locking pin and the safety clip are in the right position.
Inspect the undercarriage area. Check the sprockets, idler wheels, track links, and rollers. Look for signs of wear and tear.
Next, check the hydraulic fluid and coolant level. Don’t forget to inspect the radiator and look for leaks.
Open up the engine bay and perform an oil check with a dipstick. You should do this after every four hours of operation.

Lubricate the bushings if required.
Get inside the cab to make sure the indicator lights and the controls are in proper working order.
Test the equipment by fully extending the boom arm and the dipper arm. Listen for unusual sounds.
Lift the boom arm up in the air and turn off the machine. Wait and see whether the boom arm moves downwards. If it does, you’ll know there’s an internal bypass in the cylinders.
Test the boom arm and bucket functions repeatedly to find out if there’s any excessive movement.
Check the levers and joysticks to ensure they’re working properly.
Be well aware of the safe operating limits of the equipment. If you’re not sure, refer to the manual or talk to the dealer.

Frequency of Inspection

If you’re operating your excavator under harsh conditions, service it more often. To determine the right service intervals for your excavator, refer to the owner’s manual and perform a proper risk assessment. If your equipment is showing signs of deterioration, pay closer attention during your inspections and shorten your service intervals.

Servicing for Your Construction Equipment

If you want to optimise your excavator’s performance, get in touch with the experts at Allclass Construction Equipment. We have a 5 star Kubota accredited service centre in Brisbane. We can help you to prevent machine downtime by servicing your excavators with the best tools.

We also sell genuine excavator parts. Whether you’re looking for filter kits, tracks, or rollers, you’ll find them on our shelves.

Don’t hesitate to contact us if you need excavator attachments or Kubota mini excavators. Our sales representatives will help you find a machine at an affordable price.

Call us on 1300 255 252 for an instant quote or get in touch with us online.

Posted by Allclass Construction on December 28, 2016

Excavator Maintenance

Why You Should Get Your Equipment Repaired by Accredited Centres

Earthmoving machines are valuable tools for any construction business. But buying a fleet of machines is only the first step towards successful operations. You have to decide who is going to service and repair your equipment on an ongoing basis.

Preventive maintenance reduces machine downtime and helps the business run smoothly. It also lowers the cost of owning various pieces of machinery. To keep your equipment running like new throughout its life, consider sending it to an accredited centre.

Why Use an Accredited Centre?

Local repair centres give you services that are cheaper than those offered by accredited centres. While you might save money on repairs, there are many things you will have to sacrifice in the bargain.

If the centre is accredited, it suggests that its services and products are of consistently high quality. The certification also proves that the company is technically competent and fully compliant with legal rules, policies, and regulations relating to Kubota and TORO machinery.

5 Advantages of Using an Accredited Centre

Accredited centres have the latest tools and equipment to service and repair machines. Since they maintain high standards of service, they won’t use inferior lubricants or parts when they’re repairing your equipment.
Local service centres often suggest cheap aftermarket parts to replace faulty parts. These knock-offs won’t last you long. You may even end up sending the machine for repairs more often. Accredited service centres use genuine parts to fix faulty components. Manufacturers specifically design genuine parts so they match individual pieces of equipment. They last longer and leave the machine in perfect physical condition.
Accredited service centres make sure they train their technicians, giving them the proper education and experience to hone their skills. With accredited centres, you can rest assured that your equipment is in safe hands.

Accredited service centres maintain service log books. Service log books make paperwork easy. You could even get a better resale price for your machines if you prove that you’ve kept them in top working condition.
Many authorised service centres offer reasonably priced service plans. They also have well-equipped service trucks that travel to your location for repairs.

Construction Solutions from Accredited Experts

If you’re looking for an accredited service centre, visit Allclass Construction Equipment.

We run 5-star Kubota accredited service centres and offer sophisticated mobile service vehicles. If you want to reduce downtime and promote profits, we can travel to you for quick repairs.

Allclass Construction Equipment also has both new and used excavators for sale in Brisbane. We also stock a large range of machine and excavator parts with 96% fill rates.

To learn more about the certified service difference, give us a call on 1300 255 252. Don’t forget to view our range of Kubota mini excavators online and get in touch with any enquiries.

Posted by Allclass Construction on December 21, 2016

Excavator Maintenance

Maintaining Your Mini Excavator

To increase the efficiency of a mini excavator, you must carry out routine preventive maintenance procedures. If you spend time servicing the excavator, your machine will last you longer. You won’t have to worry about unexpected delays due to downtime and you won’t even have to pay to transport the machine to a service centre.

As you can see, preventive maintenance has many benefits. Take a look at our mini excavator servicing tips below.

Preventive Maintenance Checks

It doesn’t matter how busy the day looks, you shouldn’t operate an excavator before completing the daily checks . Examine the hydraulic fluid and the engine oil and top them up if required. If you don’t know which fluid is right for your machine, refer to the owner’s manual or talk to the dealer.

Inspect the fuel filter once a week and remove any water or build-up that’s present. Replace the filter if necessary and look for leaks in the hydraulic hoses. If you do these simple checks every day, you’ll save a lot of money on unnecessary repairs.

Mini Excavator Servicing Tips

It’s useful to inspect and grease the pivot points of your mini excavator. Regular greasing will prevent wear and tear. If you intend to operate the excavator in water, you should also lubricate the pivot points before and after use.

It’s also important to examine the undercarriage components and the rubber tracks. The undercarriage area traps a lot of mud and dirt. Clean this area periodically and make sure the rubber tracks maintain the correct tension. If they’re too tight, they will get worn out and break. If they’re too loose, the operator won’t be able to manoeuvre the equipment properly.

It’s a good idea to check the bucket attachment for signs of damage. If the teeth look worn out, the machine will have to work much harder to complete the job. Don’t overwork the equipment. Replace the bucket and other attachments if you have to.

Additional Tips

Keep an eye on the radiator and the oil cooler. If you see any coolant leaks, attend to the coolant system immediately. Wipe away any fluid that has leaked out – this will only trap dust and add to your troubles.

Apart from following these guidelines, you should also have your machine serviced regularly and on time. Refer to the owner’s manual to find out how often you need to do this.

Servicing Mini Excavators in Brisbane

If you want to service your mini excavators and mini loaders, look no further than Allclass Construction Equipment. We have a 5 star Kubota accredited service team in Brisbane. Together with the right knowledge and tools, we keep your machines in good working condition.

We also have used mini excavators for sale and a range of genuine parts to restore your equipment. Our products are high quality and they will meet the demands of your project.

Call us on 1300 255 252 if you have any questions or explore our range of mini excavators for sale online.

Posted by Barbara Moresby-White on December 21, 2016

Excavator Maintenance

Are Genuine Parts Really Worth It?

Second-hand parts or replicas are cheaper than genuine parts. While they may seem more affordable at first, they will add to the cost of running your machine in the long-term. So is it worth paying a big price for genuine earthmoving parts? Let us find out.

Genuine vs. Aftermarket

Heavy machinery manufacturers always recommend using genuine parts. This is because the manufacturers have specifically designed genuine parts for use with individual machines. Genuine parts have the right configurations and integrate well with all the other components of the equipment.

Imitations may fit just as well, but they won’t keep your machine in optimal working condition. They’re more likely to lead to unscheduled breakdowns, machine downtime and loss of revenue. You will also have to consider the cost of buying another spare part if the first one fails. Genuine parts contain high-quality materials that last much longer.

Other Considerations

It’s quite tempting to save a few hundreds and go with an aftermarket part. The truth is that aftermarket parts don’t handle loads the way genuine parts do. Construction equipment, in particular, should be tough enough to penetrate or dig hard substrate. If you use sub-standard parts, your machine won’t perform to its full capacity.

The Risk Associated with Aftermarket Parts

Construction sites are full of risks. If you use aftermarket parts, your equipment may malfunction and end up damaging people or property.

If you own and run your own construction business, you’ve probably purchased insurance to protect your employees and your company. If you use cheap imitations on your machines, you might end up voiding that insurance cover.

Aftermarket parts may also promote rapid wear and tear of the other internal components. To make sure your equipment runs smoothly for its entire life-cycle, you must avoid using imitation spare parts.

Finding Genuine Excavator Parts in Brisbane

If you need Kubota and TORO genuine parts or construction equipment in Brisbane, call the team at Allclass Construction Equipment. We know it is imperative to find the right part quickly and we have an outstanding 96% fill rate. That means we stock 9.6 out of every ten items ordered.

Whether you need Kubota or TOROparts in Brisbane, you’ll find them under our roof.

We also have high-quality new and used excavators for sale. Our qualified and friendly sales staff will help you choose the right equipment for your project.

If you’re looking for reliable Kubota dealers in Brisbane, call us on 1300 255 252. You can also visit us online to explore our range of construction equipment.

Posted by Barbara Moresby-White on December 15, 2016

Buying Equipment

Things to Consider When Choosing a Mini Excavator

Kubota mini excavator on a white background

Mini excavators, also known as compact excavators, are machines that demolish, dig and move large masses of land. There are many factors you need to consider when choosing a mini excavator. The size, the features, and the price are few things that matter. You will also have to consider the needs of the project. That way you can find an excavator that will optimise your productivity.

Choosing the Right Mini Excavator

The Size

Review the needs of your project. If the machine has to handle hard substrate, you will need an mini excavator with higher horsepower. The machine should be stable and have a strong load-bearing capacity. If you’re working in confined spaces, you will have to measure the height and width of the excavator to make sure it can easily pass through narrow gates or pathways. Another important thing to measure is the swing radius of the excavator. Again, if you’re working in tight spaces, you’ll have to make sure the swing radius is small in size. This will help you to prevent swing accidents on the work site.

Electric vs. Diesel Fuel

You’ll find two types of mini-excavators for sale. The electric powered ones are often smaller in size, and they can’t dig as deep. Most of them come with short power cables.

Diesel-fuel mini excavators are the next alternative. They have a digging depth of 10 -14 feet. If you want an excavator with a higher capacity, you will have to look for a full-sized one.

Mini-Excavator Weight

To decrease the impact on your landscaping, consider choosing machines that weigh less. Mini-excavators weigh between one and 8 tonnes. They are better suited for smaller applications.

The Cabin

Check the cabin to make sure the operator will be comfortable on the job. Find out if the controls are well-positioned so the operator can efficiently carry out tasks.

The Attachments

Attachments do all the hard work, so make sure the excavator is versatile enough to handle different blades and buckets. If the excavator has a quick attach coupler, you’ll find it easier to switch between attachments.

Buying Used Excavators

If you’re buying a used mini excavator, inspect the arm, the bucket, and the boom. Also find out if the machine’s safety features are in proper working condition.

Whether you’re looking for new or used mini-excavators, find a reliable seller that has been in business for many years. The company should be able to offer your prompt service and repairs if the machine breaks down.

New and Used Mini Excavators for Sale in Brisbane

If you need high-quality construction equipment or excavator parts, get in touch with Allclass Construction Equipment.

If you’ve got a construction job to do, we’ve got the right tools and equipment for you. Choose from our range of high performing mini excavators, stump grinders, rock breakers and trenchers.

We have a team of professional and highly experienced technicians who can fix malfunctioning equipment without delay.

Call us on 1300 255 252 for an immediate quote. You could also visit us online to view our range of new and used excavators in Brisbane.

Posted by Allclass Construction on November 24, 2016

Buying Equipment

When Should You Replace Construction Equipment?

In today’s business environment, there is a great emphasis on reducing manufacturing costs. Companies go to great lengths to improve equipment and plant reliability but they often find it difficult to pinpoint exactly when their machinery needs to be replaced.

Business owners need to take several factors into consideration when deciding whether or not to replace old equipment. Let’s take a look at some of them now.

Should You Replace Construction Equipment?

If there’s a catastrophic failure of the engine, it’s a good idea to replace your equipment. Even if you employ a few mechanics, you’ll be better off asking them to work on daily maintenance instead of making them spend hours fixing a particular machine.

You also need to take machine downtime into consideration. If it’s going to take several weeks to get the equipment up and running again, you will lose revenue. You could, of course, hire equipment and bear the cost of rental fees. If you’re going to use the machine 60-70% of the time, though, it will be more cost effective to buy than rent. Besides, new or remanufactured machines come with extensive warranties, so you won’t have to worry about the cost of unplanned repairs.

5 Tell-Tale Signs That It’s Time to Replace Your Equipment

The equipment shows a marked decline in performance across many jobs
The equipment consistently takes longer than before to complete jobs
The equipment is outdated or not as productive as efficient and modern versions – new construction machines come with enhanced safety features and intelligent systems that make the job go much faster.
Your current fleet can’t handle the demands of the current project –investing in new equipment will help to maintain the reputation of the company.
The equipment poses a safety risk – if you run machines that are unsafe, you may sustain significant injuries. You may also encounter financial losses and legal issues.

Construction Equipment in Brisbane

If you’re looking for new or used construction equipment and spare parts, get in touch with Allclass Construction Equipment. We carry a broad range of mini excavators, track loaders, engines and excavator attachments in Brisbane. We have a rapid response service team and offer exceptional after-sales support.

Whether you’re looking for Kubota excavators, TORO stump grinders or engines we have it all under our roof. We have three service centres, complete with the latest tools and spare part kits. We’ll keep your business on its tracks by offering prompt repairs and servicing.

If you need excavators or Kubota parts in Brisbane, call us on 1300 255 252. You can also visit us online to explore our range of construction equipment.

Posted by Allclass Construction on November 24, 2016