JCB Compact Excavators — 2014 Spec Guide

For decades, JCB has been producing both full-size and compact excavators. All of JCB’s weight classes of compact excavators are popular in construction applications, but as their weights increase, the machines become more popular for excavation, sewer and pipeline work. Machines in the 2- to 4-ton weight class are most popular in landscaping applications, and rental companies purchase about 25 percent of the machines weighing less than 3 tons.

JCB currently offers 10 different compact excavators ranging from the smallest model, the 8008, to the largest, the 86C. The range spans from 1 to 9 tons. According to JCB, the advantages of its compact excavators include: visibility due to large front, side and top glass areas and a narrow boom and dipper for maximum forward visibility and enhanced productivity.

The machine’s hydraulic system design includes double-acting pipe work standard on all package builds on machines larger than the 8008. The excavators feature heavy-duty, fully-welded X-frames for solid, rigid structures. This design also minimizes dirt buildup to maximize component life. Track components are sealed for life. The machines offer auto-kick-down tracking, which automatically changes driveline gear to suit the working conditions. Gull-wing doors on machine sides make access to engine and hydraulics simple and easy, thereby decreasing machine downtime when servicing is necessary.

JCB announced three new midi excavators at the 2014 CONEXPO-CON/AGG show. The first three machines being unveiled as part of the new lineup are the 67C-1 and 86C-1 conventional tail swing models and the 85Z-1 zero tail swing excavator — all designed to grab a bigger share of a market which expected to grow by at least 16 percent over the next four years. These new machines will launch a completely new look for JCB compact excavators, with a revised H-design undercarriage, steel body panels, a spacious operator environment and Tier 4 Final engines that deliver increased efficiency and lower operating costs. The new JCB compact excavators have a cab structure that can be tilted by 30 degrees to allow access to hoses and hydraulic components for repair and maintenance. JCB has also improved the grouping of components to reduce maintenance times.

JCB’s patented dozer design allows the machine to roll material away instead of creating buildup. The operator’s environment on a JCB compact excavator is second to none, says the company, with class-leading visibility and comfort inside the cab. All of JCB’s compact excavators can be outfitted with a wide range of attachments, making them very useful for many different applications and able to generate a positive return on investment for their owners.

Advice to Buyers
“Contractors must consider the overall return on their investment,” says Jake Jeffords, product specialist at JCB. “Their compact excavator must fit the operating weight, digging depth and attachment capabilities that are needed to perform everyday applications. A demo is a powerful tool to make an educated decision for your future compact excavator. While particular features can make specific jobs easier to complete, the main components of reliability, serviceability and dealer support are key to a sound buying decision.”