Hitachi EX120 Review
The Hitachi EX120 is a versatile and reliable excavator designed for heavy-duty construction, digging, and material handling tasks. With its powerful engine, robust hydraulic system, and user-friendly features, the EX120 is built to tackle a variety of projects efficiently. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the key features, performance, and overall value of the Hitachi EX120 to help you determine if it’s the right excavator for your needs.
Key Features of the Hitachi EX120
The Hitachi EX120 is equipped with a range of features that ensure excellent performance and productivity across various construction and excavation applications:
- Dimensions: 23.5 x 7.9 x 9.8 feet
- Weight: 27,000 lbs
- Engine Power: 88 hp
- Maximum Reach: 24 feet
- Bucket Capacity: 0.52 cubic yards
- Hydraulic Flow: 130 l/min
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 115 liters
- Transmission: Power-shift transmission for smooth operation
- Cab: Spacious operator cab with air conditioning and enhanced visibility
- Warranty: 1-year warranty on parts and labor
The Hitachi EX120 offers a combination of power, efficiency, and comfort, making it an excellent option for a variety of digging, lifting, and material handling tasks.
Pros and Cons
Here’s a quick overview of the advantages and disadvantages of the Hitachi EX120:
Pros:
- Powerful 88 hp engine for efficient performance in demanding tasks
- Maximum reach of 24 feet for deep digging and material handling
- Spacious operator cab with air conditioning for comfort during long shifts
- High hydraulic flow (130 l/min) for quick operation of attachments
- 0.52 cubic yard bucket capacity ideal for handling a variety of materials
- Fuel-efficient engine with a 115-liter fuel tank for extended working hours
- Power-shift transmission for smooth gear transitions and ease of use
- Durable construction designed to withstand tough working conditions
Cons:
- Weighing 27,000 lbs, it may be challenging to maneuver in tight spaces
- Larger size may limit its use on smaller or more confined job sites
- Fuel tank capacity (115 liters) may require more frequent refueling for larger projects
- Lack of modern cab features compared to newer models
- Initial purchase cost can be higher than smaller excavators
Ideal for Construction and Excavation
The Hitachi EX120 is well-suited for contractors and construction companies that need a powerful and reliable excavator for digging, lifting, and material handling. Whether you are working on road construction, trenching, or site preparation, the EX120’s robust features make it capable of handling a wide range of projects efficiently. Its maximum reach and hydraulic capabilities allow it to tackle both large and small jobs with ease.
The spacious cab with air conditioning adds to the comfort of operators, especially during long working hours in challenging conditions, ensuring that they can remain productive throughout the day.
Performance and Efficiency
The Hitachi EX120 is powered by an 88 hp engine, delivering sufficient power for tough excavation and material handling tasks. With a maximum reach of 24 feet, the EX120 excels in tasks that require deep digging or material relocation. The 0.52 cubic yard bucket capacity is ideal for general earth-moving tasks, providing sufficient capacity to handle various materials.
The hydraulic flow of 130 l/min ensures quick and efficient operation of the backhoe, reducing cycle times and improving productivity. Additionally, the fuel-efficient engine allows for extended hours of operation on the job site before requiring refueling, making the EX120 a cost-effective choice for large projects.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
The Hitachi EX120 is designed with user-friendliness in mind. The spacious operator cab provides excellent visibility of the work area, ensuring safety and precision during operation. The air conditioning system ensures a comfortable working environment, even in hot conditions, allowing operators to stay focused on the task at hand.
In terms of maintenance, the EX120 is relatively low-maintenance, thanks to its durable construction and accessible components. Routine maintenance tasks, such as checking the engine oil, hydraulic fluid, and filters, are straightforward. The machine’s robust build ensures that it can withstand the demands of regular use, and the hydraulic system is designed for efficiency and longevity.
Durability and Build Quality
The Hitachi EX120 is built to last, with a strong frame and high-quality components that ensure reliable performance over time. The 88 hp engine provides consistent power, while the durable undercarriage and hydraulic system are designed to handle the rigors of heavy-duty construction work. The EX120 is also equipped with high-quality seals and filters that reduce wear and tear, ensuring long-term reliability.
Whether you are working on a large construction site or a smaller excavation project, the EX120’s solid build quality makes it a dependable choice for challenging conditions.
Portability and Transport
Weighing 27,000 lbs, the Hitachi EX120 is not the most portable excavator on the market, and it may require specialized transport for relocation between job sites. Its large size and weight make it suitable for larger projects, but it may not be the best option for smaller, confined job sites. However, the machine’s powerful engine and heavy-duty undercarriage ensure stability and performance, even on rough terrain.
Transporting the EX120 may require a flatbed truck or lowboy trailer, but its performance on-site more than makes up for its size and transport challenges.
Final Thoughts on the Hitachi EX120
The Hitachi EX120 is a powerful, efficient, and durable excavator designed to meet the needs of demanding construction and excavation projects. Its 88 hp engine, 24-foot maximum reach, and high hydraulic flow make it well-suited for a variety of tasks, from digging and trenching to material handling. The spacious cab with air conditioning adds comfort for long working hours, while the machine’s reliable performance ensures that you can get the job done effectively and efficiently.
Although it may not be the most compact excavator, the Hitachi EX120 offers excellent value for contractors and construction companies looking for a durable and reliable machine. If you need an excavator that can handle a wide range of tasks with power, efficiency, and durability, the Hitachi EX120 is definitely worth considering.