Kawasaki Flagship Reaches for More Productivity

    Sept. 28, 2010

    Kawasaki
    Kawasaki says the 60ZV's lift arms are 60 percent stronger, to deal with greater breakout forces and a 2.2-cubic-yard bucket.

    The emissions-compliant Isuzu 6BG1 diesel powering Kawasaki's new 60ZV stepped up 9 percent to 119 horsepower compared to the engine in the 60ZIV-2. The 60ZV's breakout force increased more than 12 percent, and Kawasaki claims the lift-arm structures are 60 percent stronger to resist twisting. Optional high-lift arms are available.

    Capacity of the standard bucket has increased from 2.1 to 2.2 cubic yards (about 5 percent), and the 60ZV can accept any bucket or attachment that fit on the 60ZIV-2. The new machine is rated to handle buckets with heaped capacities from 2.1 to 2.5 cubic yards.

    The transmission has been updated to an automatic, three-speed powershift. A downshift button on the shift lever speeds cycle times.

    The 60ZV cab has an updated telescoping and tilting steering wheel, and an air-ride seat comes standard. The single-joystick hydraulic control is now pilot-assisted, and placement has been modified to include an adjustable wrist rest. Dual-joystick controls are optional. Air conditioning is optional as well.

    Kawasaki made the hydraulic-oil cooler standard equipment to reduce oil temperature and improve the reliability of the gear-pump hydraulic system. The V Series cooling system features a plate-fin-type radiator with access panels on each side of the cowl that make it easier to clean between the cooler cores. A panel below the radiator can be opened to remove debris. Remote-mounted oil drains and grease fittings are grouped to simplify maintenance.

    Only one model in the 10-model Kawasaki wheel-loader line, the 50Z, is smaller than the 60ZV. Construction Equipment estimates the 60ZV's suggested retail price will be $132,000.