Beefed-up in several critical areas and powered by Isuzu’s six-cylinder Tier-III-certified engine, the ZX350LC-3 performs more like its larger production-sized siblings, according to the manufacturer. Swing torque, traction force, and digging force have all been increased over previous models. The P Mode increases production; the E mode can reduce fuel consumption.

The Zaxis 350LC-3 weighs 77,269 lbs. (35,049 kg) and comes standard with a 13-ft. 1-in. (4 m) arm, a 16,314 lb. (7,400 kg) counterweight, and 32-in. (80 cm) triple semi-grouser shoes. Other arm lengths are optionally available.

Engine and Hydraulics

Powering the 350LC-3 is the Isuzu AH-6HK1YSA-01 engine, with a rated power of 271 SAE net hp (202 kW) at 1,900 rpm. A fresh new design, rather than a re-work of older technology, the Isuzu Tier-III-certified engine achieves increased fuel efficiency and greater output primarily through a common-rail fuel-injection system and the cooled Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system that uses an isochronous control for the electronic governor.

Working in synergistic tandem with the engine is the Hitachi HIOS III hydraulic system, formulated to specifically match the Isuzu’s torque curve. When combining functions such as boom-up, arm-in, bucket-curl, and travel, HIOS III ensures smooth and powerful performance — no one function is sacrificed for another. Swing speed is 10.7 rpm.

Comfy Cab

The CRES II cab has a wide, comfortable seatback, more foot room, and a much larger right-side window for visibility. Pedals are shaped for easier use; the cab has been strengthened to protect against greater external pressures. The widescreen color LCD monitor is multilingual and multifunctional. From the seat, the operator can make simple oil flow adjustments for attachments, monitor 32 items, and track maintenance for 14 items. Short-throw, low-effort levers mean fingertip control is truly possible.

Built for Durability

Like all Dash-3 excavators, the undercarriage X-beam is stronger — due to monolithic plates top and bottom instead of conventional welded plates. Box sections are larger. Side frame height has been increased for greater rigidity.

Track links are thicker and have been reshaped for higher durability. Instead of the conventional one, three track guards are now provided, protecting the track links from disengagement during steering. Wider idler brackets, thicker idler bracket locking plates, and bigger, stronger upper and lower rollers also contribute to durability and reliability, according to the manufacturer.

The track chain is sealed and lubricated.

The upperstructure continues with Hitachi’s signature D-section frame skirt to increase rigidity. The boom foot, boom top, and arm cylinder mounting area have been strengthened. HN bushings, using Hitachi’s own molybdenum-based lubricant, are used at the boom-arm joint and arm cylinder mounting area for better lubrication and higher durability. At the arm-bucket joint, the arm top is hardened with tungsten-carbide thermal spraying for greater wear resistance at its contact surface with the bucket.

For more information, visit www.hitachiconstruction.com.

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