With a 46% increase in durability, the Hitachi ZX17U-5N Excavator has the lowest breakdown rate in its class. It really is more durable than previous models. But how true is this claim? Is it really as durable as Hitachi claim? To find out if this machine can withstand all work conditions and last for years on end, I decided to do some digging.

The new ZX17U-5N excavator, part of the U Series, is designed with a standard long dipper arm and increased arm digging force

The new ZX17U-5N excavator, part of the U Series, is designed with a standard long dipper arm and increased arm digging force, which provide greater reach and better efficiency. The machine offers a choice of two cabs: standard foldable ROPS or canopy. With the addition of this model, the U Series now consists of five models ranging from 1,723 pounds to 4,828 pounds — the ZX10U-5N and ZX16U-5N mini excavators, and the ZX17U-5N through ZX26U-5N compact excavators.

The new model features a standard long dipper arm that increases reach by 3.9 inches with a 1.3-foot digging depth (dipper arm extended), while a standard dozer blade provides stability when backfilling. The arm’s digging force has been increased by 8% over previous models for greater productivity when working in compacted soil and clay conditions.

The ZX17U-5N excavator features a larger cab

The ZX17U-5N excavator features a larger cab with improved visibility and a more comfortable operator environment. The ZX17U-5N has a maximum operating weight of 3,937 pounds and an operating range of 7 feet 8 inches to 11 feet 1 inch. The machine is powered by a 12.6-horsepower Kubota V1505-T engine that meets EPA Tier 4 Final/EU Stage V emission standards and offers reduced noise levels for better operator comfort in residential areas.

The machine uses an electronically controlled hydraulic system that reduces fuel consumption and improves controllability, according to Kubota. The ZX17U-5N has multiple working modes that can be selected depending on the operator’s preference or job requirements. The work modes allow the operator to focus on controlling the boom, bucket, or boom and bucket at the same time.

The ZX17U-5N has standard two-way auxiliary hydraulics with a flow rate of 6 gallons per minute at 2,700 psi. The standard quick coupler enables operators to change attachments without leaving the cab.

The ZX17U-5N excavator has an 18.9 horsepower engine that meets Tier IV Final emission standards and uses SCR technology

The use of SCR technology in the ZX17U-5N excavator allows for reduced emission levels, increased fuel efficiencies and improved productivity. SCR stands for Selective Catalytic Reduction. The process used to convert fossil fuels into energy is similar to that used by diesel engines, but instead of using an oil-based fuel, the ZX17U-5N uses a fuel source similar to natural gas or propane. This reduces smog and air pollution from vehicle exhausts and helps to increase efficiency and productivity.

The principle behind SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) technology is that it produces less total CO2 emissions than traditional diesel engines. In fact, it is estimated that SCR engines emit 98% less CO2 than conventional diesel engines.*

In order for this technology to work, the engine must be able to run at higher temperatures than a traditional diesel engine. In addition, the catalytic converter must be able to withstand the high temperatures generated by the high revving engine. The ZX17U-5N excavator has a six cylinder CAT (Catalytic Converter Technology) which performs its function at extremely high temperature levels.

The ZX17U-5N excavator also has a new hydraulic system that includes Hitachi’s Smart Hydraulic system and provides an automatic two-speed traveling feature

The ZX17U-5N excavator also has a new hydraulic system that includes Hitachi’s Smart Hydraulic system and provides an automatic two-speed traveling feature. The machine’s compact size, short tail swing and the ability to offset the boom 55 degrees to the right and 45 degrees to the left make it ideal for tight jobsites with limited space.

The ZX27U-5N excavator also features a Tier 4 Final engine. With a digging depth of 8 ft. 3 in., a bucket digging force of 4,828 lb.-ft. and an arm crowding force of 2,984 lb.-ft., the model is ideal for utility work, general construction, landscaping, municipal and residential applications.

The ZX17U-5N external travel device is compact and simple to maintain, featuring hydraulic pilot control for smooth operation and increased reliability

The ZX17U-5N external travel device is compact and simple to maintain, featuring hydraulic pilot control for smooth operation and increased reliability. The ZX17U-5N offers up to 17,210 lbs of lifting capacity while still fitting in a small machine footprint. The ZX17U-5N is great for applications that require a smaller excavator such as excavation, septic systems, utility installation, landscaping and site preparation.

The ZX17U-5N excavator was designed to be more durable than previous models

The ZX17U-5N excavator was designed to be more durable than previous models.

The compact machine has a Yanmar Tier 4 Final engine that provides 12.7 horsepower and meets the latest emissions standards. The engine has a two-year/2,000 hour warranty.

The undercarriage features steel tracks with 4-inch triple grousers and extended guide rollers. Longer track life is achieved by using a fixed undercarriage design and tighter pitch between tracks.

Larger metal idlers were added to the front of the machine to provide additional support for long work days. The sprockets have been reinforced, providing increased wear life and durability, according to the manufacturer. A redesigned travel motor increases performance, even in tough conditions.

The cab has been moved forward by 1 inch to provide more space for operators, and the seat was relocated closer to the door for easier entry and exit from the cab. The machine also has an adjustable seat cushion and backrest, as well as adjustable armrests with integrated joysticks for easier operation. The cab also features high-definition monitors for easy viewing of all operating conditions, including fuel levels and coolant temperature.