Tracked excavators have been a part of the JCB manufacturing family for over 50 years, and the latest mini excavators, including the 55Z, are the strongest and highest performing next generation of machines the company has ever built.
The toughest form
With a finite-element, analysis-designed, heavy-duty structure, as well as simplified H-frame construction, the undercarriage of the 55Z is both durable and confidenceinspiring, while the clean, four-plate dipper design provides added structural strength and durability.
There are no plastic external body panels on the new JCB machines; instead they have 100% high-strength, pressed-steel bodywork, and the optional heavy-duty kingpost and boom/dipper features durable graphiteimpregnated bushes which offer 500-hour service intervals and provide a safe route for all excavator hoses.
The heavy-duty boom cylinder guard and optional dipper and crowd-ram guards give maximum excavator-arm protection, even during the toughest jobs.
Quality componentry
Fold back the cab door on the 55Z and it fits snugly within the counterweight length, out of harm’s way throughout the machine operation, and the hydraulic system boasts the latest O-Ring Face Seal (ORFS) hydraulic fittings, providing excellent sealing capabilities.
High-quality 400mm rubber tracks with interlocking links perform in even the most laborious applications, and JCB’s 400mm/550mm steel tracks are pre-drilled to make it easier to attach rubber pads. Dedicated Road Liner Pads (Bridgestone GeoGrip™) are also available should individual segments need replacing.
JCB used only trusted premium manufacturers to supply the componentry for the 55Z, including Perkins engines, Nachi and Bosch-Rexroth hydraulic components and Bridgestone tracks.
Comfort and control.
The 55Z has an even more spacious cab than previous models, with storage galore, including a phone tray, stowage net and a cup holder. The whole area is accessed easily and safely via a large door.
A radio, 12V phone charger, powerful heater with window de-mister, and an optional, high-performing air-conditioning system with eight vents completes the picture.
The innovative new rotary controller and the easy-touch switches have been thoughtfully designed for operational ease of use, and with ergonomic electro-hydraulic dozer control as standard, operators can achieve smooth and precise grading control, alternating quickly between single- and double-acting auxiliary flow thanks to a convenient switch in the cab.
Superior instrumentation
Digital screens are available in the operating station, with a simple user interface, customisable home screen and specific diagnostic information. For increased safety there’s a Thatcham approved immobiliser, eliminating the possibility of an unauthorised start, and having the software system Livelink and Datatag allows setting a geofence and machine working restrictions.
The switch panel and monitor are fitted with clearly identifiable, easy-touch buttons.
Potent performance
A Perkins 404D-22 engine drives the 55Z, a quiet, 2.2-litre unit delivering 35.7kW at 2000rpm and reduced operating costs in a small, efficient package. There’s also available a Tier 4 Final/Stage 3B engine option.
Tracking performance is smooth and precise, ensuring high dozer capabilities and fast travel times. To increase productivity, JCB’s auto kickdown motors automatically adapt to changes in terrain, increasing productivity and reducing operator fatigue.
Dipper tear-out forces of up to 29.0kN; combined with fast cycle times, enable unrivalled productivity, and by perfectly matching the boom and dipper, JCB has created optimal dig-end geometry, ideal for working and loading in confined areas with ease.
concern-free manoeuvrability
Zero Tail Swing
The Zero Tail Swing configuration offers concern-free manoeuvrability – especially in confined spaces – because the rear overhang outside the tracks is eliminated.
Hydraulic innovation
A premium, closed-centre hydraulic system provides improved flow sharing for smooth, precise and balanced operation during multifunctioning.
The programmable twin auxiliary lines provide high and optional low hydraulic flows to operate an array of attachments, increasing the machine’s versatility. Both auxiliary lines are electrically proportionally controlled and fully adjustable for optimum attachment control.
The optional four-way dozer can be angled right and left which, combined with the dozer float function, makes levelling and backfilling work incredibly easy, even on inclines and uneven terrain.
Versatility attached
JCB now offers a range eco buckets, designed with fuel saving in mind, and JCB attachments provide ultimate performance, full JCB warranty compliance and optimum fit and operation.
The fully CE-marked, factory-fitted hydraulic quickhitch is an option to add for changing attachments quicker.
Safely does it
Large track-frame width and a low centre of gravity helps to ensure stability is maximised, and the standard boom and optional worklight guards offer greater protection for vulnerable components in hazardous applications.
Optional LED lights accommodate the ‘follow-me-home’ function. When selected, the lights will remain on for three minutes, even when the machine is switched off, illuminating the area and allowing the operator to leave the site safely.
The 55Z offers greater visibility than JCB’s outgoing models, thanks in part to a 70/30 front screen split: for easy, safe trench digging and manoeuvring.
See the entire JCB range at jcbcea.com.au.
confidence-inspiring.