Head to head
Kubota U17-3a vs Thwaites 3 Tonne Front Tip
The Thwaites 3 Tonne Front Tip has 14kW more power.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Engine power: the Thwaites 3 Tonne Front Tip has 14kW more power.
Specifications side by side
| Kubota U17-3a | Thwaites 3 Tonne Front Tip | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine power | 11.3kW | 24.8kW (33.2 bhp) @ 2800rpm |
| Operating weight | 1,700kg | - |
| Dig depth | 2,460mm | - |
| Payload | - | 3000 kg |
| Heaped capacity | - | 1680 litres |
| Engine | - | Yanmar 3TNV88 |
Sources: Kubota U17-3a, Thwaites 3 Tonne Front Tip. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the U17-3a if...
A step up from a micro excavator for landscaping and groundworks contractors who need more dig depth and breakout force while still fitting through a standard gate or gap. Common on garden and small drainage jobs.
Listed by
- McGovern Plant Hire - Hounslow, Cranford
- Compact Plant Sales - Farnham
- Beaver Tool Hire - Isleworth, Twickenham
- Standard Plant Hire - Keston
- HG Plant Sales - Maldon, Langford
Buy or hire the 3 Tonne Front Tip if...
- you want one that has 14kW more power
A mid-size front tip dumper for groundworks, drainage and general muck shifting on UK sites where a 3 tonne payload is enough. Sits between the 1 tonne hi-tip and the 6 tonne dumpers in the Thwaites range.
Full 3 Tonne Front Tip specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Kubota U17-3a and the Thwaites 3 Tonne Front Tip?
The Thwaites 3 Tonne Front Tip has 14kW more power. The Kubota U17-3a is a 1.7 tonne mini excavator; the Thwaites 3 Tonne Front Tip is a 3 tonne front tip site dumper.
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