Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas offers several upgrades to the ZAXIS-5N compact excavator series ranging from 1.10 to 6.61 U.S. tons (1.7 to 6 metric tons). These compact excavators are designed for applications where there is not a lot of space to maneuver. A short tail swing radius (U) or ultra-short tail swing radius with swing boom (USB) makes it possible to work around buildings, walls, guardrails and other structures.
“The ZAXIS-5N excavators, which include the ZX17U-5N, ZX26U-5N, ZW30U-5N, ZX35U-5N, ZX50U-5N and ZX60USB-5N, continually evolve to stay ahead of customer expectations. Our focus is to provide customers with a machine that delivers efficiency, reliability and safety,” said Kei Matsumoto, product manager of compact excavators at Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas.
The latest upgrades to the ZAXIS-5N compact excavators include:
- 5-stage auxiliary flow rate changer on the ZX50U-5N to ZX60USB-5N
- Blade float option on the ZX30U-5N to ZX60USB-5N
- Complete hydraulic quick coupler piping on premium versions of the ZX30U-5N to ZX60USB-5N
- Second auxiliary hydraulic piping on premium versions of the ZX30U-5N to ZX60USB-5N
- LED work lights
- USB power outlet available on cab-equipped excavators
Attachment Operation
ZAXIS-5N compact excavators are used as tool carriers with a range of attachments on the jobsite. Several features support attachment compatibility, including an auxiliary flow rate changer. On the ZX30U-5N to ZX35U-5N the operator can match the flow rate of the auxiliary hydraulic circuit to the requirements of the attachment being used with either a low or high setting. The ZX50U-5N to ZX60USB-5N excavators now feature a multistage flow rate changer that allows the operator to select five different hydraulic flow settings.
Complete ready-to-use hydraulic quick coupler piping and second auxiliary hydraulic piping are preinstalled on premium versions of the ZX30U-5N to ZX60USB-5N. The second auxiliary hydraulic piping is for tilting and rotating attachments, making the excavators versatile. Other ZAXIS-5N excavators in this range come with mounting points built in for hydraulic quick coupler piping. This eliminates welding of brackets for quick coupler lines and simplifies installation of quick coupler piping.
An auxiliary function lever (AFL) includes an analog switch, trigger switch and horn for running attachments, such as a breaker or a tool with swing. A standard wedgelock quick coupler faciliates attachment hookup. A factory-installed bracket for a thumb cylinder simplifies installation.
A standard dozer blade enables the ZAXIS-5N excavators to grade while providing extra stability. A blade float option on the ZX30U-5N to ZX60USB-5N uses the blade’s weight to help perform grading operations. The optional factory-installed angle blade version of the ZX35U-5N to ZX60USB-5N allows for grading and backfilling ability without the need for a second machine.
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Performance
ZAXIS-5N excavators have been upgraded with LED work lights that provide visibility in low-light conditions. Hydraulic pilot valve control levers provide smooth control. Hydraulic pilot controls for the bucket/thumb and other attachments, boom, swing, travel and blade support controllability and smooth operation. Swing boom and foldable travel pedals are positioned for operation while allowing foot room.
Maintenance
The ZAXIS-5N excavators provide access for maintenance with a hinged door that provides wide-open access to the side-by-side oil cooler and radiator core during cleanout. The engine cover slides vertically with less rear projection for maintenance in confined spaces. Operators will no longer bump their heads on the cover during inspections.
Routine checks, such as engine oil level, are accomplished from ground level. Daily maintenance points are grouped behind covers. Spin-on filters provide access for filter maintenance. Ground-level at-a-glance gauges support daily inspection and servicing.
The top of the track frames on all the models ranging from the ZX30U-5N to ZX60USB-5N have been sloped for mud removal. Grease-impregnated HN bushings and pins provide 500-hour lubricating intervals.
The traditional curved glass used in the cab has been exchanged with obtainable flat glass. Installed on top of the battery, a battery disconnect prevents battery discharge during long-term storage. Maintenance is simplified since there is no need to disengage terminals and cables from the battery.
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Engine
Yanmar diesel engines ranging from 14.7 to 53.8 net hp (10.8 to 39.6 kW) are paired with proprietary hydraulic systems for performance. “Our hydraulic system is especially great for efficient fuel consumption, and it delivers the speed and power the operator wants,” said Matsumoto.
The compact excavators from ZX30U-5N to ZX60USB-5N incorporate power/economy work modes. The power mode provides high engine speeds for most general digging work, while the economy mode reduces engine speed for light digging jobs. An auto-idling system available on these models further reduces fuel consumption, emissions and noise.
Telematics
Genuine Hitachi telematics will provide owners of the ZX30U-5N to ZX60USB-5N compact excavators with data required for fleet management, such as machine position and hour meter information.
The telematics can be connected to Global e-Service, which remotely monitors operational status and alerts owners of upcoming maintenance and repair needs from fault codes. In addition, the telematics will track the fuel remaining in the tank.
*Updated on September 16, 2024
