Dubbing it as a “do-it-all” machine, Hitachi Construction Machinery Loaders America has introduced its latest wheel loader, the ZW220-6.
The first mid-size loader in Hitachi’s Dash-6 generation lineup, the ZW220-6 is powered by a Cummins engine providing 200 horsepower and 34,170 pounds of breakout force. The engine meets Tier 4 Final emissions requirements through a selective catalytic reduction system that uses diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) and eliminates the needs for a diesel particulate filter (DPF). The engine also features an auto shutdown feature that results in a 7 percent reduction in fuel costs, Hitachi says.
Bucket capacity on the ZW220-6 is 4.2 to 4.7 cubic yards and the machine can reach loading heights up to 13.5 feet.
The loader features a new Power Mode that provides a 10-percent burst in engine rpm and immediate access to extra acceleration, rim-pull and breakout force without limiting the loader’s top speed. The feature also enhances hydraulic flow to allow quicker bucket lifts. Hitachi says the feature is useful when digging into heavy piles and climbing grades under full load.
The machine’s transmission offers two auto modes and one manual mode. A shift-to-hold switch provides extra traction or torque by overriding automatic settings to hold the transmission in its current gear until the operator holds it again or changes direction.
Hitachi says the loader was designed to withstand long shifts. A reversible, on-demand hydraulic cooling fan is standard and aluminum wide-fin cooling cores provide high cooling efficiency. The machine’s new rear grill prevents material from entering the radiator compartment while an exhaust-aspirated air cleaner and integrated pre-cleaner remove large particulate mater from the inlet, eliminating the need for turbine-type pre-cleaner.
Inside the cab, operators will find what Hitachi says is the best visibility on the market through a seamless front window, rounded engine cowling and a newly redesigned ROPS frame for 360-degree lines of sight. Hitachi has also relocated the exhaust and intake stacks to the rear end of the engine cover to minimize their profile in the operator’s view.
A rear-view camera comes standard along with a proximity detection system that provides audible and visual alerts for any objects within 20 feet of the machine.
The nearly airtight cab also features an updated comfort package with a tilting/telescoping steering pedestal, automatic air conditioning and a new sound system with roof-mounted speakers.
Hitachi is offering a new E-Stick steering system as an available option on this loader. The system is an electric control over a hydraulically controlled joystick. With the flick of a fingertip lever in front of the armrest, E-Stick takes over control from the steering wheel to allow fine control of the machine’s movement with low effort.
The ZW220-6 is also equipped with Hitachi’s Global e-Service telematics, providing daily operational data and monthly summary reports through the ConSite program.
