Get A Load Of This Workhorse

Loading, moving, clearing … the trusty wheel loader is the literal hero of the construction site. Hitachi Construction Machinery’s ZW220-G wheel loader is a popular buy as it not only gets the job done but is low on fuel consumption, easy to maintain and lasts almost forever.

An integral part of any construction site is a wheel loader. Wide-ranging in its usage and functions, this machine provides exemplary service despite the sometimes extreme harsh local working conditions. Be it moving aside or transporting a variety of materials, this machine makes its presence felt regardless the terrain. Hitachi Construction Machinery has some of the most tough, sturdy, reliable and durable wheel loaders. These machines have proven efficiency, are environmentally friendly, provide high productivity and incur low maintenance costs. All Hitachi Construction Machines comply with high quality assurance to international standards. 

Hitachi’s ZW220-G (2.6-4.5 metre3 bucket, 17,615 – 17,850 kg operation weight) has just started to sell in the Middle East market. It is, however, a rebranded model of the 80Z5 Kawasaki Construction Machinery (KCM) brand which has enjoyed a long working history in the Middle East-Africa and Asia region since 2010 and continues to do so. KCM Corporation was integrated into Hitachi Construction Machinery in 2019.

Hitachi’s presence in the UAE was officially established in 2011 however the inauguration of a base in the region was much earlier (in 2007) and machines were being provided for projects from 2008 onwards. The company also has a large network of branches and dealerships spread through the region to ensure adequate after sales support for clients. This regional base provides products for the mining, earthmoving, construction and quarry industries throughout the Middle East and North East Africa (MENA).

Here’s a detailed look at the workhorse - Hitachi’s ZW220-G.

The ZW220-G wheel loader is versatile for a wide range of applications.

Simple design, sturdy performance

This wheel loader comes with a simple design which offers high reliability, durability as well as straight forward maintenance with hardly any down time - all of which are suitable for harsh conditions.

In terms of operation, let’s start with the cab. It has an easy-to-read monitor and gauge with a multi adjustable function operator seat that is comfortable and safe. The cab also comes equipped with roll over protection structure (ROP) / falling object protection structure (FOPS).

The overall easy maintenance and simplified servicing is one of the star features of this loader. The ZW220-G’s dashboard has the exact conditions of the machine visible instantly - from the gauges and indicator lights on the instrument panel to the speedometre, engine water temp gauge, transmission oil temp gauge, fuel indicator and engine hour metre amongst others.

Advanced task execution

Hitachi’s machines come equipped with Japanese engines that provide a high quality source of power. The mechanical engine governor reduces maintenance requirements. The engine also does not require any special diagnostic equipment or computer for service.

• Hitachi’s centre pin design is rugged and durable, providing thousands of hours of trouble free operation. The spherical bearing mounted on the lower center pin area absorbs heavy stresses caused by digging.
• An energy efficient design of the hydraulic system provides for steering flow to supplement the main circuit once steering demand is met. This allows for full utilisation of the pump capacity for efficient operation in all conditions.
• The double-element air cleaner filters the outside air to supply clean air for the engine. Accumulated dust is automatically discharged through valves when the 
• engine stops.
• Fewer parts and the simple structure of the countershaft transmission reduces maintenance time and cost. Transmission control can be done by using simple, twist grip, single lever which helps an operator to focus on bucket operation.
• Outboard mounted wet disc service brake reduces maintenance time since the brakes are accessible without removing the axle.
• The parking brake is a spring-applied, oil pressure-released, drum type. Based on this proven design, parking brake maintenance and adjustment can be easily done.
• Standard Torque Proportioning Differentials (TPD) improve traction in slippery conditions.

Simplified maintenance

Maintenance of this wheel loader is enhanced with the engine access panels that can be opened wide for better access. Filters are conveniently located for easy change and the grease fittings are grouped to reduce maintenance time and insure proper lubrication.

To facilitate cleaning the radiator, the radiator grille swings open with pneumatic support gas springs.

Pre-cleaner catches dirt and coarse dust from sucked air and supplies clean air to the air cleaner. It extends the life of the air filter and minimises downtime of the machine. Auto ejection type pre-cleaner automatically ejects dirt and dust it catches by centrifugal effect, which results in less frequent cleaning of pre-cleaner.