Scheduled Engine Replacement for Hitachi EX1900 Excavator at Stockton Mine
July 30, 2025
Doug Hood Mining Ltd (DHML) has reached another significant maintenance milestone with the successful engine replacement in our 2007 Hitachi EX1900 excavator, currently operating at Stockton Mine on New Zealand’s West Coast.
This major maintenance project reflects DHML’s long-standing commitment to planned asset management, operational reliability, and safe mining practices — principles that have underpinned Doug Hood Mining’s activities since its early involvement in large-scale civil and mining operations across New Zealand.
Supporting Productivity in One of New Zealand’s Toughest Mining Environments
After years of dependable service in one of the country’s most demanding open-cast mining environments, the EX1900’s engine had reached the natural end of its service life. Rather than risk unplanned downtime, DHML scheduled a full engine replacement to ensure continued productivity in overburden removal and mining support operations.
Operating on the West Coast requires equipment that can withstand harsh weather, rough terrain, and continuous high-load conditions. Proactive maintenance like this engine change-out is essential to sustaining output and protecting both people and plant.
Precision Planning and Execution
To ensure minimal disruption to operations, DHML’s mechanical team carefully planned and executed the engine replacement project.
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A rebuilt engine supplied by Cummins Ltd (Auckland) was freighted to site by T. Croft Ltd
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Working alongside trusted industry partners BT Mining Ltd, Cable Price, and Cummins, the DHML team:
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Safely removed the existing engine
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Precisely positioned and installed the rebuilt unit
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Completed all work to specification, on schedule, and incident-free
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This collaborative approach highlights the strength of long-term relationships DHML has built with key suppliers and contractors across the New Zealand mining sector.
Improved Reliability and Reduced Unplanned Downtime
The rebuilt engine significantly improves the excavator’s reliability and reduces the risk of unplanned downtime — a critical factor in maintaining consistent production at Stockton Mine.
As a key production machine, the Hitachi EX1900 plays a central role in overburden operations. This investment ensures the excavator will continue to deliver high performance for many years, supporting both DHML’s operational goals and its client commitments.
Skill, Commitment, and Teamwork
“This was a team effort throughout — strong planning and execution, and an incident-free result for us and ultimately for our client, BT Mining Ltd.”
— Rangi Hicks, General Manager, Doug Hood Mining Ltd
DHML acknowledges and thanks everyone involved for their professionalism and strong focus on safety, including:
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Our mechanical staff, particularly
Karl Lawrie – Workshop Supervisor
Guy Letourneau – Diesel Mechanic -
The technical teams from Cable Price and Cummins
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BT Mining Ltd for providing expert cranage support
Continuing the Doug Hood Mining Legacy
Since its early days, Doug Hood Mining Ltd has built a reputation for engineering capability, dependable delivery, and practical innovation in New Zealand’s mining and civil construction sectors. Investments like this engine replacement reflect DHML’s philosophy of looking after critical assets, supporting its people, and delivering consistent results for clients.
As operations continue at Stockton Mine and beyond, DHML remains focused on safe production, strong partnerships, and long-term performance — values that continue to define the Doug Hood Mining name.
