[size=2]Hitachi is proud to announce the introduction of the Zaxis 27u-2 compact excavator. The new Zaxis 27u-2 is more productive, smoother to operate and features a very comfortable operator's station. Additionally, competitive fuel economy and long service intervals deliver low operating costs.

"The Zaxis 27u-2 is a very versatile machine. It's ideally suited to a wide variety of applications," said Dave Garton, marketing manager, Hitachi Construction & Mining. "Building on the successful Zaxis platform, we've enhanced a lot of the features our customers told us about. This model is fuel efficient, quick and a dream to operate."

Productivity receives a boost from numerous improvements, including increased operating speeds, 50 percent more drawbar pull and automatic shifting between high and low travel speeds. Cycle times have been cut by 18 percent, allowing operators to dig more cubic yards per hour. A new long arm/counterweight option adds approximately twelve inches of dig depth and reach. Powered by a Yanmar 3TNV88 engine, the 27u-2 engine displacement has increased from 1.496 L to 1.642 L. This engine also features a higher torque curve.

The operator's station provides significant improvements that greatly enhance operator comfort. The cab is five inches wider and both hand and foot control levers have been better positioned for easier operating and to provide more room. Foot room also has increased due to relocation of the speed selector switch and new foldable travel pedals. The repositioned monitor provides better visibility, as well as two trip meters that can be set to remind operators when service is required. The cab door now features a bi-fold design that allows the operator to lock it back against the cab in the open position. Factory-installed air conditioning is standard when the optional ROPS cab is ordered. A cup holder also is standard.

Several new features enhance uptime in this machine. Key among these enhancements is an updated undercarriage that sheds dirt easily and reduces the time it takes to clean the machine. Improved rubber tracks are harder and have a reshaped core to resist cracking. Additionally, the drive sprocket and track idler have increased in diameter to provide additional durability and help reduce the chance of "throwing" a track.

Other improvements also maximize reliability. The boom cylinder guard has reinforcement ribs that improve strength and reduce the likelihood of cylinder damage. Easily replaced front hoses in the swing post transition area can quickly be replaced without tilting the cab or routing the hoses to the control valve.

"Hitachi compact excavators have always been among the most reliable units on the market-however, we're continually striving to reduce interruptions and lower daily operating costs," Garton said. "The redesigned undercarriage and other features further ensure the Zaxis 27u-2 works longer and harder than competitive machines."

The Zaxis 27u-2 has been designed to be easily serviced and maintained. The operator station tilts forward 50 degrees for easy access to the control valve and front side engine components. All service checks can be performed by opening just two covers. In addition, extended service intervals save both time and money, with a 500-hour interval for engine oil change and greasing, and 2,000-hour interval for hydraulic oil change.

About Hitachi: Hitachi produces world-class products for the mining and construction industry. Today's product offerings include hydraulic excavators, shovels and rigid haul trucks for the mining industry. In earthmoving excavators, our best-in-class excavator technology can now be found in models ranging from 1.7 to 800 metric tons. And in the woods, the same quality, reliable excavator technology can be found on purpose-built forestry machines ranging to 55 metric tons.
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