Watch: Link-Belt’s 145 and 245 Excavators Get Upgraded to X4S Models — with Enhanced Tech and More Comfort

The next step in excavator evolution isn’t bigger or more powerful. It’s smarter. In this video, CE head of content Keith Gribbins interviews Wyatt Skaggs, associate manager of innovation and product portfolio strategies at Link-Belt, about the company’s revamped 145 and 245 X4S models and the upgrades that make these units not only smarter but easier and more comfortable to use. These units both fall into Link-Belt’s minimal swing radius lineup, and both offer a lot of power and technology for MSR machines. At Conexpo 2026 — where this video was filmed — iron was everywhere, but not all of it is evolving at the same pace. In this quick, four-minute conversation, let’s learn how the 145 and 245 are developing.

What’s new with the 145 and 245 X4S excavators?

The 145 X4S and 245 X4S round out Link-Belt’s updated X4S lineup. Both machines sit in popular size classes for contractors who need power without bulk — 15- and 27-metric-ton classes. The biggest shift from the previous X4 generation is optional advanced tech. These machines don’t force features which as a fleet manager you can appreciate. Link-Belt lets fleets choose what fits the job and the budget.

“Advanced features on these machines are going to be height and depth alarm, payload, and digital level,” explains Skaggs in the video above. “Height depth alarm is great for setting a barrier up above you … and then depth goes below [and can also] alert you. And then payload is going to be measuring material so you know what you’re moving in and out of a jobsite. It’s a good way to create billable material for general contractors to know how much dirt you’re moving. Digital level keeps you on an even playing field, so when you’re digging you know you’re firmly planted. It’s available both on the 145 and the 245 as optional.”

To further streamline jobsite accuracy, these machines come from the factory precision grade-ready. This factory-prepped configuration reduces the time and labor required to install IMU sensors and machine guidance kits, allowing contractors to deploy automated control systems with minimal downtime.

Key upgrades include:

• Height and depth alarms to control work zones and avoid hazards
• Payload systems to track material moved and support billing accuracy
• Digital level displays for more precise grading and trenching
• Precision grade readiness for faster machine control installs

Built for tight jobs and busy streets

Both models fall into the minimal swing radius category. Operators can rotate more safely with less tail swing in confined jobsites. Tail swing is 5 feet on the 145 and 5 feet, 11 inches on the 245. That reduces permitting headaches and improves safety. It also keeps crews moving in dense environments where space is money. The 245 X4S, in particular, brings 160 hp into a compact footprint with only 11 more inches of tail swing than the 145. That combination targets contractors who need reach and digging force without oversizing the machine.

These machines are built for:

• Urban infrastructure work
• Utility installation
• Roadwork and lane closures
• Municipal and government jobs
• Confined commercial sites

Cab comfort and tech get a serious upgrade

Let’s talk cabs. It’s where operators feel the difference. Link-Belt moved from a 7-inch display to a larger 10-inch monitor. That LCD screen can access full-time camera views, on-monitor climate controls, attachment selection, customizable hydraulic flow priorities, shortcut buttons, detailed fuel consumption info, and machine security features. The standard Waves camera system includes a tri-camera birds-eye view. Customers can upgrade to a Waves+ system for added visible and audible notifications. There are also four work modes (Lift, Eco, Power, and Speed Priority) and proportional joysticks with customizable function buttons. Link-Belt is also boasting “…best-in-class interior cab spacing, comfortable high-back seat with heat, tilt, and air suspension, dual LED cab lights, and retractable front windshield. Improved cab space and airflow, Bluetooth, and 9 seat adjustments offer ultimate comfort,” according to its website.

Power and maintenance  

The 245 X4S is powered by a 160-net-horsepower Isuzu AR-4HK1X Final Tier 4 turbocharged engine. The 145 is powered by a 102-net-horsepower Isuzu AR-4JJ1X Final Tier 4 turbocharged diesel engine. Link-Belt notes its electronically controlled hydraulic pump system, paired with Spool Stroke Control (SSC), delivers responsive operation and improved controllability. The new Customizable Hydraulic Flow Balance feature allows operators to fine-tune flow distribution to their preference and reduces arm drift when maneuvering heavy attachments during a swing. As mentioned, there are four work modes. Speed Priority and Power modes maximize machine output. Eco and Lift modes help improve fuel consumption and lift capacity.

When it comes to upkeep and keeping up, Link-Belt notes that service interval reminders and access to all filters and oil sample ports are at ground level. It’s easy to reach and remove dust and debris screens. There’s a tool-free hydraulic oil breather cap that makes topping off hydraulic oil easy. Also, an air pre-cleaner is standard on most models, and operators and owners always have the option to add a reversible cooling fan.

Here’s a fast look at the two machines featured in the video:

145 X4S

• 102 horsepower
• 33,900-pound operating weight
• 18-feet, 1-inch max dig depth
• Up to 1.00 yd³ bucket

245 X4S

• 160 horsepower
• 61,200-pound operating weight
• 21-feet, 10-inch max dig depth
• Up to 1.80 yd³ bucket