Equipment World Digital Magazine
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/917937
December 2017 | EquipmentWorld.com 20 machine matters | by Richard Ries More of the same, only better C ompact excavators are already immensely popular because they lift, dig, trench, load and backfill. They run a wide range of attachments. They do all this in tight quar- ters and can be trailered from one job to the next with a pickup truck. How to improve upon such capable machines? Find ways for them to do more and do it all better. COMPACT EXCAVATORS: The C Series from Case includes six models, from the 1.77-metric-ton CX17C to the 5.86-metric-ton CX60C. The lineup includes zero-, short-radius- and conventional configurations. All models have adjustable booms to allow offset digging. An auto-shift travel system enhances convenience for the operator when traversing varying terrain. Overall design Zero tailswing was all the rage sev- eral years ago; it enhanced the ability of compact excavators to work in the tight, confined spaces typical for these machines. But zero tailswing has trade-offs, notably reduced lift capacity. So, reduced tailswing crept into the market. Now there's a full range of machines designed to ac- commodate all of the applications in which compact excavators work. "Our C Series mini excavators are available in zero tailswing, short-ra- dius or conventional configurations," says Ed Brenton, Case Construction Equipment brand marketing man- ager. "There is also a long-arm op- tion that includes a counterweight." Brenton says this allows operators to do more work without having to reposition the machine. Adjustable booms allow offset digging, help- ful when working next to buildings