JCB expands compact excavator line

JCB’s 35Z-1 new 3.5-ton zero tail swing compact excavator. (Photo: JCB)

JCB has launched a 3.5-ton zero tail swing compact excavator expanding its next-generation lineup.

Features of this new compact excavator include:

• An engine designed for global markets with new hydraulic system
• Larger ROPS cab/canopy with new instrumentation
• Improved dig-end geometry with 40 mm bucket pins and 500-hour greasing
• Easy to clean H-frame undercarriage design with auto kick-down motors
• Reprofiled dozer blade delivering increased productivity

The new 35Z-1 zero tail swing model is a replacement for the previous generation 8035ZTS. The zero-tail swing model is ideal for working in confined areas, providing greater protection as the counterweight rotates within the width of the machine.

The new mini excavator is powered by a three-cylinder Perkins engine, delivering 24.7 hp (18.4kW). This engine uses mechanical fuel injection and has no requirement for a diesel particulate filter (DPF) or any form of exhaust after-treatment. The engine is EPA approved for the North American market.

A programmable auto-idle function (2-30 secs) reduces engine speed to 1,400 rpm when the levers have not been used for a preset time. When the left-hand control pod is lifted, isolating the machine’s hydraulics, the engine speed falls again to 1,100 rpm, reducing fuel consumption and noise levels.

A large engine canopy provides easy access to daily checks, with a scalloped counterweight providing easy changing of the engine oil filter. A hinged air conditioning radiator (where fitted) swings out to provide access to the main radiator for cleaning.

Maximum control

The machine uses the latest Bosch-Rexroth variable displacement, load-sensing, electro-proportional hydraulic pump. JCB said this new technology eliminates stalling. A closed-center valve block provides improved flow, for smoother, more precisely controlled operation. The valve block is easy to access beneath a removable floor plate.

The complete hydraulic system is equipped with O-ring face seals. High-flow, electro-proportional, double-acting auxiliary hydraulics are now standard on the machine, delivering 18.5 gpm of flow. The auxiliary flow is controlled using a proportional thumb roller on the right-hand joystick.             

A single to double-acting changeover is now electronically controlled by a switch in the cab. Double-acting low-flow auxiliary hydraulics can also be specified, delivering 8 gpm of flow. This circuit is controlled through a thumb roller on the left-hand joystick with selectable high and low flow auxiliary modes.

Operator comfort

The 35Z-1 has a new ROPS/TOPS cab and canopy structure. Flat glazing is used throughout an optional FOPS Level 1 guard is offered. The front screen has a 70/30 split and the lower glass section can be removed and stored inside the rear left-hand window.

Available as a canopy, a cab with heater or a cab with air conditioning, the working area provides increased legroom for the operator. There are no auxiliary or boom offset pedals on the floor. Bolt-on grab handles and a large door aperture make it easy to access the high-backed suspension seat. An electro-proportional dozer control is standard.

The membrane switch layout to the right of the operator is easy to read and a new 4-inch display screen provides all operating information. This includes an automatic health check with the first key on. A rotary work mode controller controls the engine and hydraulic output, while two toggle switches allow the operator to personalize the information available on the main screen. Where hose burst valves are supplied, a load moment indicator (LMI) can be activated in the screen, providing an indication of safe working loads when lifting.

The cab includes a Bluetooth radio and there is a 12V socket and two USB ports for charging of mobile phones and other electrical devices. Both the cab and canopy have LED work lights as standard, with follow-me-home functionality. The 35Z-1 and is equipped with JCB’s 2Go safety system, which requires the operator to press a secondary switch to activate the hydraulic controls.

The machines are provided with an immobilizer to prevent theft and JCB LiveLink is standard, providing a telematic link to the excavator.

Robust construction

The machine uses a new H-frame undercarriage design for increased rigidity. This open-center design allows dirt and debris to fall from the carriage. The track legs have chamfered edges. A smooth front idler, four bottom rollers and a single top roller ensure a smooth ride and the Nachi track motors have an auto-kickdown function. There are 12 dedicated tie-down points on the machine, including on the dozer blade.

The dozer blade features a revised curvature for improved roll performance. Pivot pins feature pin-end greasing, making it easier to service and all plated surfaces are angled to minimize dirt and debris retention. Dozer ram hoses now pass through bulkhead connectors, mounted on the outside of the undercarriage. Optional dozer float and a four-way dozer are now offered.

Dig-end geometry has been revised to improve lifting and loading performance. A single 8-foot main boom is used with a standard counterweight. Graphite impregnated bronze bushes have extended greasing intervals on the digging and dozing equipment to 500 hours and the heavy-duty bushed kingpost now comes with re-bushable pivots.

The dipper arms are thumb-ready as standard, for those customers that require the attachment. The revised bucket pin geometry now matches other manufacturers. A conversion hitch will enable the machine to work with the previous generation buckets. There is also a new JCB factory-fit hydraulic quick-hitch option, featuring two locking mechanisms and an LED boom light warning indicator. This CE-marked hitch has been designed to meet all current and expected future legislation