Aggregates Manager Digital Magazine
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Kawasaki is adding a new building at its Newnan, Ga., plant to handle Z7 production, which replaces the ZV-2 series. Loaders Sport New Styling Z7 Kawasaki intros first two models of 15 machine lineup. by Tom Jackson, Contributing Editor hipments started this April on the first two models of Kawasaki's Z7 wheel loader lineup, the 85Z7 and the 90Z7. These will be joined by four additional Z7 machines by the end of this year, with an eventual 15 models in the line. "The Z7 is a dramatically different machine," says Gary Bell, vice president-general manager, Kawasaki Construction Machinery Corp. of America, noting that both Kawasaki and Hitachi engineers worked on the machine as a joint venture that began in 2008. "Virtually every part is new." Immediately apparent is the series' new styling and all-new cab, offering enhanced visibility with full-length glass doors. Both machines offer a standard package of previ- ously optional equipment, including a forward/re- verse switch, an integrated backup camera, a battery disconnect switch, turn signals with flashers, and lift- S 39A AGGREGATES MANAGER DIGITAL EXCLUSIVE July 2012 ing eyes. In addition, the 90Z7 has a standard lock- up torque converter and traction control. Limited slip differential will be standard on the 85Z7 models and under. Kawasaki says the new line up offers lower operat- ing costs and fuel-efficient variable displacement pis- ton pumps. "Kawasaki is a leader in piston pumps in excavators (not sold in North America), but we've never used them in our loaders," Bell says. "They are much more fuel efficient, since they only use energy when the hydraulics are used, in comparison to gear pumps, which run all the time." Bell says the Z7's open-center/load-sensing hydraulics is an industry exclusive for loaders. The Z7's IntelliTech systems help the operator adapt to working conditions and can be automatic or operator selected. These systems include: