JCB unveiled a number of new and refreshed excavators at its June press launch in England. (This is the final installment of our JCB product roundup. Click these links for more on the new backhoes and wheel loaders, and for the new, high-reach telehandler.)
In the compact range, the 8018 CTS and 8026 CTS models are new to North America and benefit from some 30 design changes that have migrated into the company’s compact line. The biggest change comes in boom design.
Previous models had a tubular boom fabrication. JCB strengthened this element with a box boom style construction. Hoses are routed through the center of the boom to protect them from damage. The boom cylinder was also repositioned from an underslung position to the top of the boom where it’s less likely to get bent or nicked, a common danger when truck loading.
The kingpost, dipper nose and bucket links on these models now feature replaceable steel bushings for increased durability and ease of maintenance. Cast steel counterweights and engine hoods stand up to rough use, especially important in the rental market.
On the 8018 lift performance has increased 52 percent thanks to the new hydraulic valve block. Lifting performance over the dozer is boosted approximately 30 percent. The new valve block also provides better fault control isolation, meaning the boom won’t drift downward when holding a load up high, which enhances safety.
The 8018 runs on a 19.2 horsepower engine and a triple-section gear pump and offers a bucket breakout forceof 3,642 pounds. Short pitch tracks improve operator comfort during travel.
The 2.7-ton 8026 machine gets a 24-horsepower engine and a variable displacement hydraulic pump. A redesigned undercarriage offers greater stability and durability. Breakout forces were balanced for higher productivity.
