First Hitachi ZW-5 wheel loaders hit the forest
ANNOUNCED EARLIER THIS YEAR, THE FIRST OF THE ALL-NEW Hitachi ZW-5 wheel loaders has gone to work in a New Zealand forest.
A mid-range ZW220-5, complete with a set of Ensign log forks, has just been commissioned to load logs for Stokes Logging north of Auckland.
Hitachi distributor, CablePrice, says that with lower fuel consumption, increased productivity, enhanced maneuverability, operator comfort and safety, there is plenty to get excited about with the new ZW-5 range.
“These loaders have been developed in response to customer requirements for high productivity, lower fuel consumption and a low total cost of ownership,” says Alex Kelly, National Equipment sales manager for CablePrice NZ.
“These machines are already operating in Australia, where they have proven to be very reliable workhorses, particularly in forestry.”
The extensive range offering of nine models starts with the ZW1405 through to the impressive 47-tonne ZW550-5, all of which are equipped with powerful engines that deliver strong performance and are capable of impressive travel speeds.
The machines come with two work modes (Standard and Power) that provide flexibility for handling various log sizes while ensuring that low fuel consumption and maximum productivity isn’t compromised. A quick power switch can be selected by the operator to deliver a power boost when extra lifting performance is required.
Additional fuel savings can be achieved with an optional autoengine shutdown function that avoids fuel consumption when the machine is idling excessively. An ECO monitor display also shows the operator when the wheel loader is operating economically in ECO mode.
Operator comfort and safety have risen another notch in the new range, with several modifications made to the wheel loaders’ already spacious cab.
The heated air suspension seat can slide further back creating more leg room and the tilting telescopic pop-up steering column has also been repositioned to create additional space.
Other cab comforts include an MP3 input and holder, a cooler/ heated box, as well as a drink and lunch box holder. Temperature in the cab is regulated with more effective air conditioning and noise levels are reduced thanks to increased sound insulation. A double air conditioner filter will be welcomed by operators in very dusty conditions, especially on the pumice lands.
The new cab provides enhanced visibility through the pillar-less front windshield, with the large sun visor more effective in blocking glare. For extra safety, a rear-view camera automatically displays when reverse is selected, plus, the rear counterweight is also visible from both sides of the machine.
Automatic gearshift controls in the new generation machines provide improved maneuverability on the skid or around log yards, including an automatic shift up delay of four seconds from second to third gear.
“The shift changes on the Hitachi ZW-5 are based on engine load rather than RPM or speed, ensuring the transmission shifts are made at the most efficient time,” says Mr Kelly.
A new clutch cut-off system controls clutch disconnection timing depending on travel speed and brake pedal depression with three modes available depending on the site slope. Three models (ZW1405, ZW370-5 and ZW550-5) also have a Traction Control System that prevents slippage in snow, slippery or muddy conditions by reducing the maximum rim pull.
Routine maintenance is improved through the redesigned fullyopening engine and radiator cover, providing quick and convenient access, with greasing points, oil levels and fuel filters all easily accessed at ground level.
NZL