Top 100: Simpler Line Works Bigger

Hitachi replaced the EX Series excavators with the Zaxis line in 2002, designing in better performance specs to accompany the Tier-II-compliant engines. Typical lift capacity for the 200 Series, for example, with a 9 foot-7 inch arm at 5 feet high and 15 feet of reach is 18,545 pounds. Lift capacity for the 300 Series with a 13-foot arm is 35,209 pounds. The redesigned hydraulic system simplifies controls with just one work mode. Service and maintenance requirements have been reduced through lengthened hydraulic oil and filter change intervals and lengthened grease intervals. Estimated price: $450,000 to $500,000.