Henred MT354017 Excavator
The Henred MT354017 is a compact and versatile 3.5-ton mini excavator designed for a range of small to medium-scale earthmoving tasks in South Africa. It offers a balance of power, maneuverability, and fuel efficiency, making it suitable for urban construction, landscaping, and utility trenching projects where space is often limited.
Overview
The Henred MT354017 mini excavator is positioned as a reliable and cost-effective solution for contractors and plant hire companies operating in South Africa. Its 3.5-ton operating weight places it in a highly demanded segment, ideal for navigating tight urban sites, residential developments, and agricultural applications. This machine is engineered to deliver consistent performance for tasks such as trenching, foundation digging, site preparation, and general earthmoving.
Key to its appeal is the balance between its compact footprint and its digging capabilities. Operators will appreciate the machine's ease of transport between sites, a significant advantage in the South African context where logistics can be a major cost factor. The MT354017 typically features a robust engine, providing ample power for its class, coupled with hydraulic systems designed for precise control and efficient operation. This ensures that even less experienced operators can achieve good productivity.
For South African conditions, durability and ease of maintenance are paramount. The Henred MT354017 is generally built with readily available components where possible, aiming to minimise downtime and simplify servicing. Access to parts and technical support for Henred equipment is a consideration for any potential buyer, and local distributors often play a crucial role in ensuring machine uptime.
- Typical Applications
- From digging trenches for utility installations to preparing foundations for small buildings, the MT354017 excels in environments where larger excavators are impractical.
- Operator Comfort
- While compact, modern mini excavators like the MT354017 often include features aimed at reducing operator fatigue, such as ergonomic controls and improved visibility.
- Fuel Efficiency
- Given the rising fuel costs in South Africa, the machine's fuel consumption is a critical factor, with manufacturers striving for optimal efficiency without compromising power.
Key specs
- Years produced
- 2025–2025
- Year range
- 2025
- Operating Weight
- 3,500 kg
- Engine Power
- 20-25 kW (27-34 hp) (est.)
- Bucket Capacity
- 0.08 - 0.12 m³ (est.)
- Max Digging Depth
- 2.8 - 3.2 m (est.)
- Max Digging Reach
- 4.5 - 5.0 m (est.)
- Travel Speed (High)
- 4.0 - 5.0 km/h (est.)
- Travel Speed (Low)
- 2.0 - 2.5 km/h (est.)
- Overall Width
- 1.5 - 1.7 m (est.)
- Overall Height
- 2.4 - 2.6 m (est.)
- Tail Swing Type
- Conventional or Zero Tail Swing (model dependent) (est.)
- Hydraulic Pump Flow
- 60-75 L/min (est.)
- Fuel Tank Capacity
- 35-45 L (est.)
Specifications are typical for a 3.5-ton mini excavator and may vary slightly based on specific configurations and market releases for the Henred MT354017.
Applications
- Trenching for utilities (water, electrical, fibre optics)
- Foundation digging for residential and light commercial buildings
- Landscaping and garden design projects
- Site preparation and grading on confined sites
- Demolition of small structures and interior demolition
- Agricultural tasks such as irrigation ditching and small dam maintenance
Features
- Compact design for excellent maneuverability in tight spaces
- Robust undercarriage for stability and durability on varied terrain
- Auxiliary hydraulic lines for attachment versatility
- Ergonomic operator station with good visibility
- Easy access to service points for simplified maintenance
- Fuel-efficient diesel engine for reduced running costs
- Durable boom and arm construction for demanding digging tasks
Operating requirements
- Competent and certified excavator operator (e.g., SETA accredited)
- Regular pre-start checks and daily maintenance routine
- Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for operators and ground staff
- Adequate fuel supply (diesel) and hydraulic oil
- Clearance for tail swing (if conventional tail swing model) or safe operating radius
- Suitable transport vehicle (e.g., flatbed truck or low-bed trailer) for relocation
- Access to Henred-approved spare parts and technical support network
Attachments and options
Common attachments
- General purpose digging buckets (various sizes)
- Hydraulic hammer (breaker) for concrete and rock
- Auger attachments for post-hole digging
- Grading/clean-up buckets
- Quick coupler systems for fast attachment changes
Options
- Air-conditioned cab for enhanced operator comfort
- Rubber tracks for reduced ground disturbance on sensitive surfaces
- Blade extensions for wider backfilling/grading
- Additional LED work lights for low-light conditions
- Telematics system for fleet management and tracking
Maintenance and inspections
- Daily checks of fluid levels (engine oil, hydraulic oil, coolant)
- Greasing of pivot points and pins as per manufacturer schedule
- Regular inspection of tracks, rollers, and idlers for wear
- Cleaning or replacement of air and fuel filters
- Hydraulic system checks for leaks and hose integrity
- Engine service at recommended intervals (oil change, filter replacement)
- Battery inspection and terminal cleaning
Adherence to the manufacturer's maintenance schedule is crucial for longevity and warranty validity, especially considering the demanding operating conditions often found in South Africa.
Safety notes
- ROPS/FOPS certified cab for operator protection
- Seatbelt interlock system to prevent operation without seatbelt engaged
- Emergency stop button within easy reach of the operator
- Audible travel alarm for reversing and slewing
- Clear visibility from the operator's seat, often aided by mirrors or cameras
- Lockable fuel and hydraulic caps to prevent tampering
- Non-slip surfaces on steps and platforms for safe entry/exit
Buying checklist
- Verify the machine's service history and maintenance records (if buying used)
- Inspect the undercarriage for excessive wear on tracks, rollers, and sprockets
- Check for hydraulic leaks around cylinders, hoses, and fittings
- Test all functions (digging, slewing, blade, travel) for smooth operation
- Confirm availability of local Henred parts and service support in your region
- Assess the condition of the engine for unusual noises or excessive smoke
- Review the operator's manual and safety documentation
- Compare fuel efficiency figures against similar models for long-term running costs
- Consider the resale value and market demand for this specific model in SA
FAQ
What kind of projects is the Henred MT354017 best suited for in South Africa?
The MT354017 is ideal for small to medium-scale projects such as residential construction, landscaping, utility trenching, and agricultural work where its compact size and maneuverability are advantageous. It's perfect for urban sites or areas with limited access.
Is it easy to transport the Henred MT354017 between job sites?
Yes, with an operating weight of 3.5 tons, the MT354017 is relatively easy to transport. It can typically be moved on a standard flatbed truck or a suitable low-bed trailer, making it cost-effective for contractors working across multiple locations.
What are the typical running costs for this mini excavator in South Africa?
Running costs will primarily include diesel fuel, operator wages, routine maintenance (filters, oils, greasing), and wear parts like bucket teeth or track components. Fuel efficiency is generally good for its class, but actual costs depend on duty cycle and local fuel prices. Access to affordable spares is a key factor.
What attachments are commonly used with the Henred MT354017?
Common attachments include various sizes of digging buckets, grading buckets, hydraulic hammers (breakers), and augers. The auxiliary hydraulics allow for a wide range of powered attachments, increasing the machine's versatility.
