Tight Access
Excavator Hire
Can't get a digger into your backyard? Our 990mm wide mini excavator fits through standard side gates, narrow driveways, and tight access points that larger machines can't reach.
The Narrow Access Problem
Adelaide's older suburbs - from Salisbury to Elizabeth, Modbury to Golden Grove - were built when side gates were standard width and backyards were meant for rotary clotheslines, not swimming pools. Getting machinery into these properties has always been a challenge.
Many hire companies only have 2.5T+ excavators that are 1.5m wide or more - too wide for your 1m gate. They'll tell you to remove fence panels or find another way. We have a better solution.
Our 1.8T JCB 18Z-1 is just 990mm wide - designed specifically for tight access situations. If your gate opening is 1 metre or wider, we can get in. No fence removal. No crane lifts. No drama.
990mm Track Width
Fits through 1m openings
Will We Fit? Quick Access Guide
1m+ Opening
Perfect fit
Standard Gate
Usually fine
950-990mm
Tight - call to discuss
Under 950mm
Won't fit
Not sure? Measure your narrowest point and call Jack on 0466 286 704 - we'll confirm if we can access your site.
Tight Access Specifications
Critical Dimensions
Track Width
The measurement that matters for gate access
Overall Height
2,350mm
Transport Length
3,855mm
Ground Clearance
195mm
Operating Weight
1,700kg
Zero Tail Swing Design
The JCB 18Z-1 features a zero tail swing design - the rear of the machine doesn't extend beyond the track width when rotating. This is critical for working in tight spaces.
Why Zero Tail Swing Matters:
- Work right next to fences without hitting them
- Operate safely near buildings and walls
- Dig along property boundaries
- Work in narrow trenches and corridors
- Reduced risk of damage to surroundings
Small Size, Serious Performance
Don't let the compact dimensions fool you - our 1.8T excavator is a serious workhorse capable of handling most residential and light commercial projects.
2,290mm
Max Dig Depth
4,030mm
Max Reach
3,420mm
Max Dump Height
11.3 kN
Digging Force
Perfect For These Tight Access Projects
Backyard Pool Excavation
Many Adelaide homeowners thought a pool was impossible due to access. Our tight access excavator changes that. Excavate your backyard pool even with narrow side gates.
Established Suburb Landscaping
Older suburbs like Salisbury, Elizabeth, and Modbury often have limited rear access. Transform your backyard with professional excavation work.
Rear Yard Drainage
Fix flooding and drainage issues in backyards that larger equipment can't reach. Install proper stormwater management through tight corridors.
Fence Line Post Holes
Drill post holes for new fencing right along your boundary. Zero tail swing means we won't damage your neighbour's property.
Retaining Wall Excavation
Create level areas in sloped backyards. Work in confined spaces where larger machines would be impossible.
Septic & Sewer Work
Excavate for septic tanks, absorption trenches, or sewer connections in rear yards with challenging access.
Tight Access Specialists Across Adelaide
We regularly work in Adelaide's established suburbs where narrow access is the norm, not the exception.
Northern Suburbs
Salisbury, Elizabeth, Parafield Gardens, Mawson Lakes, Modbury, Para Hills, Ingle Farm, Pooraka
North-Eastern
Golden Grove, Greenwith, Surrey Downs, Fairview Park, Banksia Park, Tea Tree Gully, Ridgehaven
Eastern Suburbs
Campbelltown, Paradise, Newton, Athelstone, Rostrevor, Magill, Hectorville, Tranmere
Inner Suburbs
Norwood, Kensington, Prospect, Nailsworth, Walkerville, Medindie, North Adelaide
Don't see your suburb? We service all of Adelaide Metro. Call 0466 286 704 to discuss your location.
Before You Book
Measure Your Access Points
To confirm we can access your site, measure the following and have the dimensions ready when you call:
Gate Width
Measure the clear opening, not the gate frame
Driveway Width
At the narrowest point
Height Clearance
Under any carports, pergolas, or low branches
Path to Work Area
Any tight turns or obstacles?
Pro tip: Take photos of your access path and send them to Jack via text or email. A quick photo assessment often confirms access faster than measurements alone.
Got Tight Access?
Don't let narrow gates stop your project. Call Jack to discuss your access and get a quote.