BOBCAT Australia recently announced two new additions to its D-series compact excavator range, the 2.6t 325D and 3.3t 331D. These machines feature more modern appearance with softer edges and rounded corners. The appearance is also modernized by the elimination of removable side panels and a new decal package.
The instrument panel mirrors that in the G-series Bobcat loaders, with sweep gauges to the operator’s right monitoring engine temperature and fuel level, with digital displays of engine hours, job hours and engine rpm. A button on a keypad allows operators to toggle between these displays.
Amber backlit icons indicate when high range is engaged, when the left control console is down (ie joystick and travel functions are active), when the auxiliary function is active and when the glow plugs are being used.
Red warning icons cover the engine charging system, low engine oil pressure, a plugged hydraulic filter or high hydraulic oil temperature.
A general warning icon shows high engine coolant temperature, low fuel and engine over-speed. The monitoring system will shut down the machine in the event of engine coolant temperature, engine oil pressure or hydraulic oil temperature reaching critical levels. The machine can be restarted after shutdown to move a short distance for safety reasons if necessary.
A tip-forward access cover on the right side of the machine protects the fuel fill point, control valve and associated plumbing. This cover can be locked open in two positions - one for routine daily maintenance and the second to give improved access to the hydraulics.
Grease nipples for the swing pinion, swing bearing and offset cylinder are located centrally on the machine’s front right corner for ease of servicing.
A swing-out tailgate made of 6mm die-formed steel swings out for engine servicing. This design eliminates the need for cast counterweights found on competitor machines.
The right joystick provides fingertip control of auxiliary hydraulics. A unique feature is the modulated system that provides infinitely variable control from zero to full flow - useful when controlling a grapple. Variable flow is available in both directions.
An improved pump and valve package is simple in design but provides a load-sensing, pressure compensating, torque-limiting feature necessary for optimum hydraulic performance. Improvements in the hydraulic system and spool metering provide improved control of work functions.
An enclosed cab is an option on the 331D only, with a heating/ventilation/ air conditioning (HVAC) system. This includes a 3-speed fan with adjustable directional air ducts. The retention system for holding the cab door open has been simplified.
Other features of the D-series machines include:
A press-button speed control on the backfill blade handle, that no longer requires the button to be held while in high range
A more convenient location of the ISO/Standard pattern selection lever in the operator area
Control of the travel and boom offset functions using 2-piece folding pedals (the offset pedal can be folded forward and locked in a stationary position for use as a footrest when the offset function is not needed)
One boom-mounted and one frame-mounted light as standard, with the option of additional lighting
Both the 325D and 331D incorporate the X-Change quick attachment system.