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Volvo Compact Wheel Loaders Summarized — 2018 Spec Guide

Volvo Compact Wheel Loaders Summarized — 2018 Spec Guide

By CE Staff August 16, 2018 View Profile

Designed with Versatility, Safety and Comfort in Mind

The Volvo Construction Equipment line of compact wheel loaders grew from four to six models in the past year with the additions of the L20H and L25H. Volvo says its compact wheel loaders are well-balanced machines designed to reduce cycle times and operating costs. All six models — the L20H, L25H, L30G, L35G, L45H and L50H — are designed with the operator in mind, with ergonomic controls and a spacious cab for easy operation and reduced operator fatigue. Safety and visibility have been improved with a wide, curved windshield and compact engine cover. Maintenance is made hassle-free with easily accessible service points.

The L20H and L25H offer improved fuel efficiency, cycle times and can reach maximum speeds of 18.6 mph. Standing at a height of 8 ft, 1 in. tall and boasting a turning radius of 26 ft, 11 in., these Volvo H-Series wheel loaders offer excellent maneuverability, even in the most confined spaces. An articulated oscillating joint increases traction and stability on rough terrains. The H-Series loaders offer all-around visibility, minimal noise and vibration levels and an adjustable steering column. The FOPS/ROPS cab is larger than predecessor models with more window area. For a clean environment in dusty applications, the cab also features one of the largest cab filters in the industry, says Volvo. A single joystick lever offers control of three functions, including the hydraulic attachments, multi-purpose buckets, sweepers and augers. The compact loaders are fitted with a single inching brake pedal, allowing operators to work at a creeping pace.

The Volvo L30G and L35G provide operators with the highest ground clearance in the industry at 24 in. — says the company — a huge advantage in applications such as recycling, brush clearing and agriculture. Another key advantage with the L30GS is the high speed — reaching 18.6 mph. The Volvo L30GS and L35GS possess the versatility and breakout and lifting forces expected from larger machines. And, both models feature new, fuel-efficient Volvo engines that meet the demanding emissions requirements of Tier 4 Final regulations without any aftertreatment to the exhaust.

The L45H and L50H machines come equipped with the Volvo D4J Tier 4 Final engine (with regen carried out at the 500-hour service interval), as well as improved hydraulic flow and high breakout torque due to the unique Torque Parallel (TP) linkage. The L50H hydraulic pump capacity has been improved by 20 percent, leading to 26 percent faster cycle times. The Volvo D4J Tier 4 Final engine improves fuel efficiency by 15 percent compared to previous models. The optional Boom Suspension System boosts productivity up to 20 percent by absorbing shock and reducing bouncing and bucket spillage.

Advice to Buyers

“The introduction of the smaller wheel loaders in America increases options when deciding the makeup of your fleet. Compact wheel loaders are versatile machines, and you might even consider these a viable replacement for a skid steer,” says John Comrie, product manager at Volvo Construction Equipment.