Used Hitachi ZX120 Excavator

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Here is a comprehensive introduction to the Hitachi ZX120 excavator in English, covering its overview, key features, technical specifications, and typical applications. This information is based on the widely available ZX120-6 series (the latest generation), which exemplifies the model's capabilities.

Hitachi ZX120 Excavator: Detailed Overview

The Hitachi ZX120 is a versatile 12-tonne class hydraulic excavator designed for a wide range of construction, utility, landscaping, and light demolition tasks. Renowned for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and operator comfort, the ZX120 combines Hitachi's advanced hydraulic technology with a robust build, delivering high productivity on every job. The current model, typically the ZX120-6, builds on decades of engineering excellence and meets the latest emission standards (e.g., EU Stage V / EPA Tier 4 Final), making it a clean and quiet performer suitable for urban environments.

Key Features

1. Powerful and Clean Engine

The ZX120 is powered by a fuel-efficient Isuzu 4JJ1X four-cylinder, water-cooled diesel engine. This turbocharged, aftercooled engine delivers 68.4 kW (91.7 HP) of net power at 2,000 rpm. It incorporates advanced technologies such as a common-rail fuel injection system and exhaust after-treatment (DOC+DPF or SCR, depending on the region) to significantly reduce emissions without sacrificing performance. An ECO mode allows operators to further reduce fuel consumption during lighter work.

2. Advanced HIOS III Hydraulic System

The excavator features Hitachi’s patented HIOS III (Human & Intelligent Operation System) hydraulic technology. This system optimizes hydraulic pump flow and pressure based on actual load demand, minimizing energy loss and improving fine control. Key benefits include:

Smooth combined operations: Simultaneous movements (e.g., arm in + boom up + bucket curl) are precise and fluid.
Enhanced fuel economy: Flow is reduced during low-load operations and adjusted instantly when power is needed.
Selectable work modes: The operator can choose between Power mode for maximum productivity, Economy mode for lower fuel use, and a PWR (Power Boost) function for a temporary 6% increase in digging force.

3. Spacious and Comfortable Cab

Operator comfort is a top priority. The ZX120’s cab is ISO-certified for ROPS (Roll-Over Protective Structure) and FOPS (Falling Object Protective Structure). It is pressurized to keep dust out and features:

Excellent visibility: Large windows, a narrow front pillar, and an optional rear-view camera with a wide-angle monitor.
Ergonomic controls: Short-stroke, low-effort pilot levers and an adjustable, high-back air-suspension seat with lumbar support.
Automatic climate control: A powerful air conditioning and heating system.
Low noise and vibration: Cab mounting dampers and advanced sound insulation reduce interior noise to approximately 70 dB(A), contributing to reduced operator fatigue.

4. Durable and Reliable Structure

Reinforced undercarriage: The X-frame design provides excellent torsional resistance. The track frames are built with thick steel plates for maximum durability.
Boom and arm: These are manufactured with high-tensile strength steel using large, single-piece side plates for critical stress areas, eliminating unnecessary welding.
Protected components: The swing motor, swing circle, and hydraulic hoses are well-guarded against damage in confined spaces.

5. Simplified Maintenance

Hitachi designs its equipment for quick, daily maintenance to maximize uptime:

Ground-level access: Engine oil dipstick, fuel and water separator, and oil filter are accessible from ground level.
Wide-opening covers: Engine hood, side doors, and radiator cover open wide for easy cleaning and inspection.
Parallel cooling arrangement: The radiator, oil cooler, and intercooler are mounted in parallel, preventing clogging between cores and allowing easy cleaning with compressed air or water.
Extended service intervals: Engine oil and filter change intervals are set at 500 hours, while the hydraulic oil is changed every 5,000 hours.
Diagnostics: An in-cab multi-function LCD monitor displays machine status, maintenance reminders, and service codes. It also supports connectivity with Hitachi’s fleet management systems (e.g., ConSite) for remote monitoring.

Technical Specifications (ZX120-6 / ZX120LC-6)

Specification	ZX120-6 (Standard)	ZX120LC-6 (Long Undercarriage)
Operating Weight	12,100 kg (26,676 lbs)	12,600 kg (27,778 lbs)
Engine Model	Isuzu 4JJ1X (4-cyl, Turbocharged)	Isuzu 4JJ1X
Net Power (ISO 9249)	68.4 kW (91.7 HP) @ 2,000 rpm	68.4 kW (91.7 HP)
Bucket Capacity (ISO Heaped)	0.20 – 0.52 m³ (0.26 – 0.68 yd³)	0.52 m³
Max. Digging Depth	5,520 mm (18' 1")	5,520 mm
Max. Digging Reach (Ground)	8,270 mm (27' 2")	8,270 mm
Max. Cutting Height	8,710 mm (28' 7")	8,710 mm
Max. Dumping Height	6,170 mm (20' 3")	6,170 mm
Max. Bucket Digging Force (ISO)	99 kN (22,260 lbf)	99 kN
Arm Digging Force (ISO)	66 kN (14,840 lbf)	66 kN
Swing Speed	13.3 min⁻¹ (rpm)	13.3 min⁻¹
Travel Speed (Low / High)	3.2 / 5.4 km/h	3.2 / 5.4 km/h
Track Shoe Width	500 mm (20")	500 mm
Overall Length (Transport)	7,700 mm (25' 3")	7,740 mm
Tail Swing Radius	1,980 mm (6' 6")	2,160 mm

(Note: The long undercarriage (LC) version provides increased stability for heavier lifting and working on uneven terrain, at the cost of a slightly larger tail swing radius and weight.)

Applications

The Hitachi ZX120 is a highly adaptable machine suited for:

General construction: Foundation digging, backfilling, and material handling.
Utility work: Trenching for water, gas, and sewer pipes; installing electrical conduits.
Landscaping and roadworks: Grading, slope forming, and ditch cleaning.
Demolition: Light to medium demolition tasks when equipped with a hydraulic breaker or crusher.
Agriculture and forestry: Land clearing, drainage works, and loading.

Its compact tail swing design (especially on the standard ZX120) makes it ideal for works in confined urban streets and single-lane traffic conditions.

Conclusion

The Hitachi ZX120 excavator represents a perfect balance of power, precision, and practicality in the 12-tonne class. With its efficient Isuzu engine, intelligent HIOS III hydraulics, class-leading operator comfort, and legendary durability, it is a reliable partner for contractors seeking low operating costs and high machine uptime. Whether you choose the standard or long-undercarriage variant, the ZX120 is engineered to deliver consistent performance in the most demanding work environments.

Non flooded

No accident

Original product

Used Hitachi ZX120 Excavator

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