Jul 16, 20244 min read

Sharpen Your Hedge Cutting Season with McConnel Ireland - Exclusive 0% Finance!

We get Tipperary Contractor, James Shine’s, Perspective on his 70 & 75 Series Hedge Cutters

James Shine, a seasoned contractor hailing from South Tipperary, has spent decades in the field, navigating the landscapes of the “Golden Vale” in Ardfinnan, not far from Clonmel.

“We're contracting here for probably 45 or 50 years. It was hedge cutters when they started out first, and then moving along and doing hedge cutting, silage, bales, slurry, all that.”

For James, the journey with McConnel's Power Arms began with the acquisition of the PA6575. "Before the McConnel, we had a competitor machine, and when they were coming up for change, we saw the 6575, thought it was a good solid machine, and we purchased that in January of 2023," James recalls. The decision was driven by the machine's robust construction and advanced features.

"It has a real strong arm on it," James explains. "It's well-built. We've got quite a big cooling package on it which keeps the engine cool all day."

The ease of access for hooking on and off with the axle brackets and just lifting it up on the arms, and the stability of it is quite good. You can put it on and off in 10 minutes. And then also, this is the first telescopic machine that we bought. So, in wet conditions, we can vary the tracks quite a bit and get away when we wouldn't have been able to get away with the other makes.”

“On that machine, we have a 75 horsepower pump in it for encountering heavy bushes that haven't been cut for two or three years. Also, we put a tuffcut head on it. We find that very user-friendly for changing flails. It's quite easy. You only need one socket and a spanner.”

“And then the revolution controls, if we have two or three people driving it and they like driving it different ways, you can set it up, change users, and it's quite precise and easy to use.”

Impressed by the performance of the PA6575T, James decided to expand the fleet with the addition of the PA6570T.

"In September 2023, we were changing another one, and again, we looked around at different makes and models, and we went for the 6570," James recalls. “It’s a slightly smaller horsepower compared to our other one. The arm is a small bit lighter but definitely more than adequate for what we want to do.“

“It has the Same 6.5-metre reach, different controls, but we have still got a tuffcut head on this, and it is a three linkage machine, but we put a sub-frame on it for stability and for cutting.“

James's experience with the PA6570T and PA6575T models exemplifies the dependability and versatility of McConnel Power Arms. "McConnels are a fantastic machine. They’re very fast and precise and make my job a lot easier," James remarks, his tone reflecting the confidence that comes from relying on equipment that consistently delivers.

Versatility is another key factor for James. With the ability to customize the machine to their specific needs, James and his team can tackle any task with confidence and efficiency. Both the 70-Series and 75-Series offer a choice of control systems and telescopic armset options, ensuring precise customization to individual requirements.

The technological advancements of both series further enhance their appeal. From the Easy Drive System (EDS) to McConnel's Variable Forward Reach armset, these machines offer the latest in hedge-cutting and verge-mowing technology, providing practical advantages in real-world scenarios.

Moreover, the comprehensive choice of flail heads and working attachments streamlines operations, making tasks like changing flails a breeze. James highlights the user-friendly nature of the tuffcut head, simplifying day-to-day operations and increasing efficiency.

In terms of maintenance, both series are designed for ease of use. The rugged Domex steel construction ensures durability, while features like the Hydraulic Power Slew and Hydraulic Safety Breakaway enhance safety during operation.

"Maintenance on these machines are quite easy, On our previous machines, you used to have to be taking off covers and guards to get in and make sure grease was going in, whereas on these, you don't. All the pins have two grease nipples either side, makes it very easy to grease." confirms James.

Reflecting on his purchasing experience, James acknowledges the importance of reliable support. "We purchased both machines off Sean in Abbey retail. Their backup has been top class. No problem. We haven't had any issues with these," he explains, underscoring the significance of a dependable support system.

McConnel Power Arms represent the epitome of innovation in green maintenance equipment. With their robust construction, advanced technology, and unparalleled versatility, they continue to set the standard for professional contractors worldwide. And for James Shine and his team, they're not just machines—they're indispensable tools that make their work easier, faster, and more efficient.

70-series and 75-series machines offer a comprehensive choice of build options, control systems, and advanced features which enable customers to create a custom-spec machine that precisely meets their needs and offers outstanding reliability and performance. Operators can also choose from a wide range of working attachments including Multisaws, Ditch cleaners, Rotary Heads and Cutterbars.

New Financing Options

McConnel is delighted to offer exclusive 0% financing on the full range of Power Arms, including the 70-Series and 75-Series, exclusively available through McConnel’s official distribution partner, Kverneland Group Ireland. Take advantage of the special finance schemes: