Product feature: Kubota U27-4 and KX033-4 mini excavators
Kubota has introduced the U27-4 and the KX033-4 compact excavators
Kubota U27-4
Kubota has introduced the U27-4, a compact excavator that its manufacturer says doesn’t compromise on power and performance, has the biggest cab in its class, and is ideally suited for the hire market.
At 2.6 tonnes, the U27-4 can be towed by a suitably rated ute and is available in two models. The Standard U27-4 model is said to be ideal for general excavation jobs while the High-Spec model utilises a combination of AUX oil flow with proportional flow control and auto-shift for greater versatility and extra performance that is sometimes required on more demanding sites.
Kubota says U27-4 is designed to provide a powerful and well-balanced arm and bucket that allows the operator to work efficiently even in the toughest conditions, and thanks to the provision of two variable pumps, work operations such as slewing while moving the arm, can be carried out simultaneously without affecting performance.
The U27-4’s operator station offers quality visibility, ‘easy-open’ front slide window, adjustable suspension seat, and what its manufacturer says is an innovative forward mounted intuitive panel for simple programme setting at the operator’s fingertips.
The U27-4 is also said to offer a generous amount of foot space for improved comfort as well as a tall and wide door to facilitate faster and easier entry and exit. A wide-opening access door and hood gives what Kubota says is easy access to all inspection and maintenance areas of the engine. The U27-4 is also equipped with a range of safety features as well as a number of conveniences, including tie-downs and a toolbox.
"At Kubota, we are constantly taking on the feedback of our customers and dealers to ensure we bring new machines to market that offer the performance requirements and operational comfort they seek," Kevin Hamilton, Kubota NZ CE sales manager, says.
Kubota KX033-4
The newest member of the KX series is the Kubota KX033-4 compact excavator, which replaces the well-known KX91-3. The KX033-4 shares many features that Kubota’s larger machines are known for: a larger cab, dash-controlled pre-sets for auxiliary circuits, and a standard hydraulic diverter valve.
"The KX033-4 is a welcomed breath of fresh air for the three- to four-tonne compact excavator class. It delivers best-in-class hydraulic breakout power while setting the pace and achieving fast cycle times, resulting in more material moved per hour when tested head-to-head against other three-tonne excavators," Kevin Hamilton, Kubota CE sales manager, says.
The KX033-4 is powered by an 18.5kW (24.8hp) Kubota direct injection Tier 4 Final certified engine. Adjustable auxiliary hydraulics allow the operator to program up to five different oil flow rates, controlled from a new digital control panel.
The standard third-line hydraulic return system allows oil to return directly back to the tank without flowing through control valves resulting in less back pressure, less heat, and greater efficiency.
An impressive bucket breakout force of 1125 newtons (8138 pounds) and a digging depth of 3200mm help enable the KX033-4 to handle some of the toughest excavating jobs with top-of-class speed and efficiency. An accumulator clears residual pressure, allowing for easier attachment changes and helping lower front attachments even when the engine is turned off.
Kubota’s optional hydraulic angle blade’s standard float function along with its reversible and replaceable cutting edge helps set the KX033-4 apart in the marketplace, enabling it to deliver more blade height and faster backfill capability.
Dozing operations are made faster and easier with a two-speed travel switch on the dozer lever. The KX033-4 automatically shifts from high to low when needed in heavy dozing applications.
The KX033-4 operator station is designed for what Kubota says is unmatched comfort: the deluxe, reclining, high-back suspension seat giving maximum operator comfort, including weight compensation and firm, adjustable wrist supports. A large cup holder can hold a beverage or cell phone and a charging port is also placed nearby.
A wider, updated digital display panel with push button operation allows for easy monitoring of critical controls, including changing hydraulic oil flows. The Aux1 operation switch is conveniently located on the right joystick control lever. A ROPS/OPG (TOP Guard, Level I) canopy is standard.
The optional cab includes air conditioning with greater air circulation, more foot space with a wider door, and a gas-assist mechanism that makes it easy to open the front window. Kubota is imported in New Zealand by CB Norwood Distributors Ltd.
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