Whitnell Plant’s father and son team of Lionel and Matt Whitnell (pictured below) like to combine traditional earthmoving expertise with modern technology.
When they went looking for a new dozer to complement their fleet, as a small family business, value was paramount. The machine needed to handle a wide range of tasks, from fine trimming to heavy pushing, while remaining comfortable for long days on site.
Trials were arranged between Liebherr and another leading brand, with evaluation of fuel economy, performance and operator comfort. Following the tests, the Liebherr PR 736 G8 emerged as the preferred choice.
“The trials gave us a clear understanding of the machine’s capabilities,” Lionel Whitnell explains. “It offered consistent performance and overall efficiency for our needs, supported by excellent guidance from our sales representative.”
The PR 736 G8 ordered by Whitnell Plant was tailored to their specific requirements. Its 4.84 m³ six-way PAT blade has foldable corners to reduce transport width, while LGP tracks lower ground pressure to just 6.1 psi, ideal for soft ground. A five-tine ripper enhances versatility, and additional LED lighting and a 360° camera system promote safe and efficient operation. Powered by a seven-litre diesel engine delivering 238 hp, the hydrostatic transmission adjusts speed and drawbar pull automatically, delivering smooth and efficient operation across varying conditions. Inside the Generation 8 cab, the operator benefits from excellent visibility, ergonomically placed controls, and pre-wiring for Trimble or Leica GPS systems. Liebherr’s Operator Assistance Systems, including Active Blade Stabilisation and Active Blade Positioning, support precise grading with minimal effort.
The PR 736 G8 made its debut near Ipswich on a land remediation project for Sirius Group, where Matt Whitnell spread cut-and-fill material across a 50-metre-wide site to exact levels for follow-on compaction.
“The machine handled the material smoothly and consistently, allowing us to achieve a precise finish efficiently,” he says.
Initial servicing will be supported by Liebherr, with ongoing maintenance managed by the Whitnells themselves.
“We know what is required to keep a hydrostatic dozer in peak condition,” Lionel Whitnell notes. “Liebherr’s support is reliable and always available when needed.”
