Head to head
Kubota U17-3a vs Thwaites 6 Tonne Power Swivel
The Thwaites 6 Tonne Power Swivel has 44kW more power.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Engine power: the Thwaites 6 Tonne Power Swivel has 44kW more power.
Specifications side by side
| Kubota U17-3a | Thwaites 6 Tonne Power Swivel | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine power | 11.3kW | 55.4 kW (74 hp) @ 2200rpm |
| Operating weight | 1,700kg | - |
| Dig depth | 2,460mm | - |
| Payload | - | 6000 kg |
| Heaped capacity | - | 3150 litres |
| Engine | - | Deutz TCD 3.6 L4 |
Sources: Kubota U17-3a, Thwaites 6 Tonne Power Swivel. 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 6 Tonne Power Swivel if...
- you want one that has 44kW more power
A 6 tonne dumper whose skip swivels so it can tip to either side, useful for loading into trenches and working along narrow roads or site edges. Used by groundworks and utility contractors on UK sites. A cab is listed as an option.
Full 6 Tonne Power Swivel specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Kubota U17-3a and the Thwaites 6 Tonne Power Swivel?
The Thwaites 6 Tonne Power Swivel has 44kW more power. The Kubota U17-3a is a 1.7 tonne mini excavator; the Thwaites 6 Tonne Power Swivel is a 6 tonne power swivel site dumper.
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