JCB announces 1.7-tonne mini diggers

JCB has lifted the lid off its latest range of compact excavators – the 18Z zero tail swing and 19C conventional tail swing models designed to work in tight spaces.

JCB anticipates the 18Z will be a popular model in Australia, given its compact zero tail swing design which is what customers are increasingly looking for.

The 19C will offer three variants to round up the new line-up. There will be a canopy and cab mechanical versions as well as a high spec canopy machine with electro-proportional auxiliaries. According to JCB, the 19C's conventional tail swing configuration suits applications where machine balance in heavy dig end tasks is required.

The 19C will replace the existing 8018 models.

Both 18Z and 19C excavators feature 100 per cent steel bodywork that provides the machines with maximum impact protection. As all models share common design DNA, any damaged parts can be replaced easily and quickly to minimise downtime.

A common heavy undercarriage is used for the new models, with machined faces for improved fit and extended component life. All come with a retractable track frame with widths of 980 to 1330mm.

A revised idler design delivers improved ride quality and reduces track stalling in loose material.

The machines use a next generation four-plate boom and dipper design, with machine matched dipper arm lengths of 950mm on the 18Z, 1100mm on the 19C canopy versions and 1344mm on the Cab Gravemaster variant.  The 1800mm main boom with top mounted ram provides maximum protection for the hydraulic cylinder.

JCB said the 18Z and 19C excavators are equipped with powerful hydraulics that allow the machines to simultaneously handle any combination of excavator functions smoothly.

Both ROPS-compliant cab and canopy versions of the machines feature 24 per cent more interior space compared to previous models with improved leg and shoulder room, boosting comfort for operators.

Redesigned track levers now come with T-bar controls, in line with larger models. The 19C electro-proportional (EP) model incorporates the swing control and auxiliaries into the right-hand joystick, further improving space on the operator station floor.

Dual-flow circuits with electrically proportional controlled auxiliaries are standard on the 19C EP providing precise attachment control.

Short-pitch rubber tracks come as standard while sloping track legs reduce material retention, making it easier and quicker to clean the machine between jobs.

A redesigned dozer blade comes with easy-to-install dozer wings with increased lift height. A new instrumentation package is clear for users to interpret and use.

Transporting the 18Z and 19C excavators is an easy affair with the models featuring ten tie-down points in the frames that can be easily adapted to different truck and trailer tie down configurations.

Increased all-round visibility on the 18Z two-post canopy and 19C narrow framed four-post canopy and cab variants ensure clear, open views for the operator.

JCB’s 2Go risk mitigation hydraulic cut-out system prevents machine operation through unintended control movement.

The 18Z and 19C are powered by a 16.3hp Perkins diesel engine that is equipped to meet upcoming emissions regulations.

The engine is mounted across the rear of the machines for optimum weight distribution that provides the best machine balance and service access.

The machines have a rear counterweight that swings away to provide open access to the engine bay for major servicing purposes. Daily checks can be done through a separate swing-open steel access door.

The right-hand panel opens to allow access to the hydraulic, tank and filter and the radiators.

All boom and dipper pins have 500-hour greasing intervals for reduced downtime and extended pin and bush life.

The 18Z and 19C are supported with a 3-year or 3000-hour warranty package.