Robert Koch founded Koch Excavating of Palmyra, PA, in the 1960s, and throughout his career he has tried out many excavators. But for the past six years, he has become loyal to Kubota compact excavators, particularly the KX61.

Koch purchased his KX61 in May 2001 from Messick’s Equipment, based in Elizabethtown, PA. Since then, he has been using the machine on residential and commercial applications, such as digging and laying stone amphitheaters, cobblestone streets, basements, retaining walls, removing entire sections of sidewalks and building retention ponds.

The KX61 has become Koch’s all-time favorite. “The KX61’s rubber tracks are exceptionally kind to any surface area, including lawns and established landscaping” he said. “With only 650 hours [on the machine], it has excelled on every project, including digging out shale for which our Cat 315B wasn’t successful.”

The KX61 weighs 6,100 lbs. (2,767 kg) and has a width of 55 in. (140 cm). The machine boasts a 27 hp (20.1 kW) engine and a 2.3 cu.-ft (.07 cu m) bucket.

“It’s amazing what the KX61 can do,” said Koch. “Follow-up crews have been astonished with the straight cuts and the complete cleanup done by the operator with this machine.

“Also, you’re close enough to the job to see what you’re digging, avoiding water and electric interruptions. It’s easy to service and a 7 gal. fuel tank allows you to operate it all day without re-filling,” Koch added.

Messick’s service is the icing on the cake, according to Koch. “They [Messick’s] go the extra mile to help make you successful from the initial sale to parts and service,” he said.

Messick’s Equipment has two locations; One at 187 Merts Drive in Elizabethtown PA, and another at 7481 Lincoln Highway in Abbottstown, PA. Recently, the company was honored by Kubota for top sales in its territory for Kubota excavators in 2001.

For more information, call 717/367-1319 or visit www.messicks.com.