X FACTOR

British earthmoving manufacturer JCB recently launched the latest addition to their X series range of crawler excavators, a long-awaited replacement for their venerable outgoing JS370 model.

The new, top of the range excavator joins five models in the popular weight ranges of 13-25 tonnes and gives the manufacturer the presence further up the weight range they have been missing for a couple of years. Joining the 131X, 140X, 150XHD, 220X and 245XR, the new 370X boasts the same design features from the smaller machines such as the sculpted counterweight, designed to reduce damage, and the CommandPlus operator cabin which has a massively increased size compared to the outgoing model.

With over 4 years of thorough testing, JCB are extremely confident the 370X will make a big impact in the 40 tonne class sector. In head to head tests against leading manufacturer’s equivalent models, the 370X has been measured to move over 4.5 tonnes more material per litre of fuel burned.

From the ground up, the JCB engineers have designed the 370X to work in any market and any conditions with LC and NLC undercarriages available. Heavy-duty versions can be specified with double grouser track pads for more arduous conditions.

The upper structure carries the same DNA as the smaller machines with a modern design, shaped counterweight and the large CommandPlus cab. Hidden away beneath the panels is where the company has made several upgrades to the smaller machines including a new engine supplier.

Launched to the European press with the usual JCB fanfare, the 370X has been designed around a new Cummins L9 engine. The six-cylinder, 322hp diesel utilises Cummins’ compact and reliable Stage V emissions regulations package and delivers 14% more power than the outgoing model. The engine delivers this maximum power at just 1700rpm to increase fuel economy and reduce overall noise levels.

To allow for easier operation, the latest generation Kawasaki tandem hydraulic pump pushes out 350bar which can rise to 380bar when the power boost kicks in. Increased diameter hydraulic pipework allow for better flow rates and allow for a wider range of attachments to be handled.

JCB have made some updates to the spacious, class-leading JCB CommandPlus cab. One of the biggest changes designed to give even more comfort and control to the operator, is the introduction of a new interface called JCB UX. Designed in-house, UX is a new 10” full colour touch screen display, updated switchgear and new keyless start make operating easier and faster than ever, while a revised menu interface gives the operator the ability to control functions via multiple inputs, for more productive and efficient working.

The JCB UX interface has up to 25 user profiles, which can all be customised with the ability for operators to set the joystick configuration to meet their individual requirements.

Mobile phone connectivity has been improved with phonebook integration via the monitor. JCB have incorporated a series of ‘how to’ videos in the UX system to allow operators to familiarise themselves with any operation or function from the comfort of the cab. The huge cab now has a heated, air suspended seat and benefits from a reduced in-cab noise level of just 69dB. For added safety, the 370X has a rear and side camera as standard with the views being shown through the UX interface. An optional 360 camera system is also available.

JCB have made huge efforts to reduce the 370X’s total cost of ownership. Real-time monitoring of fluid levels on the in-cab display allows the operator to keep an eye on what’s happening away from the digging equipment. Service intervals have been extended with the hydraulic system doubled to 2000 hours whilst engine coolant servicing is further increased to 3000 hours and air filters to 2000 hours. The machine has three work modes to optimise digging, lifting or economy and with Auto-Stop and Auto-Idle engine functions fuel economy is further increased. A neat touch is the bolted handrail system designed to lower repair costs.

With a standard range of LED lights fitted, the owners can individually tailor the machine with additional lighting to suit specific tasks. For operators requiring machine control, the 370X is also offered with the JCB 2D and 3D-ready IntelliGrade system.

The 370X is available in two equipment options, a 6.45m mono boom with three stick options of 2.63m, 3.23m and 4.03, with a 21m long reach option running a 12.33m boom and 9.5m stick. Bucket pin diameters have been increased and with the use of the JCB dual pin quick hitch, the machine can now handle attachments with either 90 or 100mm pins.

JCB have also launched a series of new heavy-duty buckets to complement the machine. Designed to be lighter and stronger and with capacities of 2.1m3 and 2.43m3 , the buckets have been joined by a new HM330T hydraulic breaker.