Hitachi ZW220-6 Covers All the Bases for Loader Versatility

The heaped bucket capacity of 4.2 to 4.7 cu. yd. (3.2 to 3.6 cu m) can reach loading heights up to 13.5 ft. (4.1 m).

Thu June 20, 2019
Hitachi

The release of the ZW220-6 shows how Hitachi Construction Machinery Loader America has raised its sights to deliver productivity and efficiency for the most demanding owners and operators. The ZW220-6 is the first of Hitachi's new mid-sized wheel loaders in the Dash-6 Series, fully equipped to excel in the full range of duties expected from the top tier in this class.

Designed to help skilled operators get the best out of the ZW220-6 is Hitachi's "do-it-all" loader in the new generation Dash-6 Series, built to endure long shifts in demanding work environments. It ships at 38,910 lbs., powered by a highly efficient 200 HP Cummins Tier IV Final engine and delivering 34,170 lbs. of breakout force. The heaped bucket capacity of 4.2 to 4.7 cu. yd. (3.2 to 3.6 cu m) can reach loading heights up to 13.5 ft. (4.1 m).

Technology + Productivity

With its Dash-6 fleet, Hitachi offers popular smart technology features such as ride control, telematics, auto power-up and an operator-friendly LCD color monitor. Hitachi's "Global e-Service" combines with its ConSite reporting program to give fleet managers 24/7 remote monitoring, maintenance and daily operational data plus monthly summary reports.

Dash-6 Emissions Control Move Ahead of the Pack

Dash-6 models also introduce a range of advanced features that target the needs of operators for responsive power and control. Hitachi's attention to operator features clearly supports the versatility customers are looking in a general-purpose machine for construction sites, agricultural applications, farm work and municipal applications.

Cab Comfort and Control

The Dash-6 cab operator's compartment comes with a fully updated comfort and convenience package and a pressurized work environment with a virtually airtight seal to keep out dust and dirt. The Tilt/Telescoping steering pedestal is linked to a pop-up pedal that quickly returns the steering pedestal to its start position. Fully automatic A/C, excellent ventilation, and a new sound system with roof-mounted speakers creates a comfortable work place for those long hours on the job.

An extensive range of intuitive controls come easily to hand for responsive power, steering and loading functions. The transmission offers two auto modes and one manual mode to adapt to the day's applications. A shift-to-hold switch overrides automatic settings to hold the transmission in its current gear until the operator presses it again or changes direction, giving it the extra traction or torque required at that time.

The ZW220-6 also provides Hitachi's new power mode switch, putting a 10 percent burst in engine rpm. Available in any auto and manual ranges, power mode provides immediate access to extra acceleration, rim-pull and breakout force without limiting the loader's top speed. Operators will typically engage power mode to dig into heavy piles, to climb grades under full load, and run speed quickly on flat runs. Power mode also enhances hydraulic speed to allow quicker bucket lifts for faster cycle times.

Hitachi's parallel/tandem hydraulic circuit makes load lifting and dumping even more efficient. The parallel tilt and lift movement smooths out digging operations while the tandem function prioritizes the bucket while dumping, as an automatic return-to-dig function resets the bucket for the next load.

"E-Stick" Introduces Fingertip Hydraulic Steering

Offered as an option, Hitachi's new e-stick steering system is an electric control over a hydraulically controlled joystick. It has been well received by those that have trialed it. Controlled by a fingertip lever mounted just in front of the armrest, this new steering system takes over from the wheel to allow fine control of the machine's movements with minimal effort.

The Best Visibility

The ZW220-6 carries forward Hitachi's claim to best visibility in the business — a significant advantage for machines that are often roading between work sites, according to the manufacturer. A seamless front window, rounded engine cowling and redesigned ROPS frames allows clean 360 degree lines-of-sight. Its exhaust and intake stacks are relocated to the far rear end of the engine cover, minimizing their profile in the operator's view. The rear pillars of the ROPS frame struts are mounted forward and away from the rounded corners of the cab. A rear-mounted safety camera is standard equipment, along with a proximity detection system providing audible and visual alerts for stationary and moving objects up to 20 ft. (6 m) from the loader.

A Solid Producer All Day, Every Day

The ZW220-6 has been built to endure long shifts for the long haul with a robust frame structure, high ground clearance and a resilient cooling package. Standard equipment includes a reversible, on-demand hydraulic cooling fan, which can be activated automatically or manually. Aluminum wide-fin cooling cores ensure high cooling efficiency as well as extending the service life free of corrosion.

A new rear grill prevents raw material from entering the radiator compartment and protects it from debris. An exhaust-aspirated air cleaner and integrated pre-cleaner removes large particulate matter from the air inlet, eliminating the need for turbine-type pre-cleaner.

The loading arm on the ZW220-6 features a heavy cross-tube design to resist torsional stresses. A belly guard also is available to prevent damage to the powertrain and driveshaft in the most rugged terrain.

Goodbye DPF — Hello SCR

By eliminating DPF and the required regen cycles from the ZW220-6 power system, Hitachi now takes the industry lead in Tier IV Final solutions for wheel loaders, according to the manufacturer. Hitachi Dash-6 machines introduce a clean SCR system using just a simple DEF system. This advance lets the machine run efficiently without high engine temperatures and no concerns about idle times. Fleet managers can look forward to less downtime for engine maintenance and extended engine life to overhaul. The SCR opens up space in the engine compartment, too, to make life a little easier for service techs.

An auto shutdown feature provides further savings on fuel and emissions, adding up to about a 7 percent reduction in fuel cost during load-and-carry operations.

Telematics with Hitachi's Global e-Service allows ZW220‑6 owners to monitor their loaders remotely for machine performance, daily operational reports, remote diagnosis, as well as schedule maintenance dates. The results also are provided automatically in monthly email summaries with Hitachi's ConSite program.

For more information, visit www.hitachiwheelloaders.us.

This story also appears on Construction Equipment Guide.