KOBELCO Goes Big in Demolition with the SK1300DLC-11

In the coming weeks, we're going to take a closer look at material handling excavators. A close cousin is the excavator outfitted specifically for demolition.

Both have unique attributes suiting them for their jobs, as well as manipulative and delightfully destructive attachments.

Hydraulic excavator specialist KOBELCO is active in the destruction sector and has released a big new SK1300DLC-11 that's purpose-built for demolition.

With variable front configurations, the unit has a maximum reach of 130 feet.

The machine’s mass operating weight is 302,000 pounds but can be disassembled for easy transport, the company says. Minimum transport weight of the base machine without the counterweight is 134,000 pounds with no single component weight exceeding 39,800 pounds.

Destruction with multiple fronts

The machine comes with a separate demo digging front, 3-piece high-reach, and 4-piece high-reach multiconfiguration front attachment.

A high-reach attachment comes with transport and storage stands, water spray system, electronic on-board lubrication system, quick hitch piping, boom and arm safety valves, 2-piece removable layered counterweight, and a removable track system.

The machine also features a remote trans-lifter, energy-saving ECO Mode, in-cab hydraulic pressure release, combination rotation and nibbler breaker with proportional hand controls, case drain line and filter, and a reversable fan.

There is an unlimited power boost mode for a separate boom attachment.

Cab features

The Dash 11 series feature a cabin environment that has enhanced ergonomics and safety combined with best-in-class cabin space and visibility, KOBELCO says.

The operator’s pilot levers move horizontally without arching of the wrist, while also providing shorter lever strokes to deliver a swifter, more precise movement. Built for demolition, the sound suppressed 30-degree tilting cabin comes with an emergency lowering system.

Mastering "controlled chaos" of demolition with an Under 40 winner

It also includes a 270-degree camera system with switchable rear-under view camera or high-reach attachment view, rear-view mirrors, LED work lights, rear-swing flashers, demolition Level II FOPS guard and bar-type front guard, P5A safety glass, falling object deflector, cab interference prevention system, stability tip-over warning, and a public address speaker system for on the ground handsfree communication.

That's a lot, and I actually broke up that sentence.

Multiple air conditioning and heater vents are directed toward the operator to maximize comfort. On the right-side console, there is a jog dial that integrates multiple functions into a single user interface with the large 10-inch color monitor.

This menu screen facilitates easy reading of valuable information including work mode, maintenance intervals, and fuel consumption. To top it off, the cabin is equipped with an FM/AM, AUX, Bluetooth, hands-free telephone radio, smartphone holder, USB charger, and a 12V power outlet.

The model includes a standard limited full machine warranty of 3 years or 3,000 hours and a 5-year or 3,000-hour engine emission warranty. This warranty is provided through KOBELCO and its dealer network.

Engine specs

The unit's 512-horsepower Isuzu 6WG1 engine meets current U.S EPA T4-F and E.U. Stage V emission requirements. 

The engine features a 15.7-liter, in-line 6-cylinder and is commonly used in various heavy-duty trucks, construction, and other industrial equipment. KOBELCO also currently uses this model engine in the SK850LC-11 excavator.

Engine parts and service are provided directly through KOBELCO and its dealer network.