JCB added to its extensive compact excavator line-up in the North American market with the launch of the 8018 CTS. The 8018 CTS is JCB’s most powerful entrant in the competitive 3,300 lb. (1,497 kg) class.

The compact excavator features a fabricated box boom design that gives this machine a rugged, robust appearance. The boom and dipper’s slim construction also provides enhanced visibility down the trench, improving productivity. All of the dig end hoses are routed through the inside of the boom, offering protection when digging in narrow trenches. The boom cylinder on the 8018 CTS is now mounted on top of the boom, delivering additional protection and lowering cost of ownership.

Digging depth has been increased by 11 percent, allowing a maximum dig depth of 8 ft. 1 in. (2.4 m), while dump height also is increased by 2 in. (5 cm) to give a load over height of 8 ft. 9 in. (2.6 m).

The compact machine isn’t just about digging ability however, with many customers using these excavators to lift materials into trenches. The load holding capacity of the 8018 CTS has been increased by 52 percent. The kingpost also has been moved closer to the center of the machine, boosting stability and increasing lift capacity.

Operator Comfort

The cab on JCB compact excavators is one of the largest on the market with a wide door opening for safe entry and exit. The cab floor is flat and easy to clean and flat glass has been maintained throughout for low cost replacement. To further reduce the cost of ownership, a lower steel door panel is now standard on the machine to eliminate the need to replace damaged glass.

Inside the 8018 CTS, the pedals have been relocated so the boom swing is now on the right-hand side and the auxiliary on the left. The tracking levers also have been refined to make tracking more precise, especially at slower speeds. To maintain best in class service access, JCB has equipped the machine with a tilting mechanism that elevates the cab or canopy to give increased access to the engine, valve block, slew motor and rotary joint. The tilt angle of the cab has been improved by 17 percent, allowing even better service access to super structure components.

The compact 8018 CTS also boasts quick release track levers and foot pedals, allowing a trained technician to lift the cab in a matter of minutes whatever the environment.

Strength Built In

To ensure the rear of the 8018 CTS is among the strongest and most protected in the industry, JCB has opted for a solid cast counterweight, which will withstand the harshest of impacts and operating environments. This is combined with a steel hood, which is the toughest in its class.

The hinged hood on the 8018 CTS has gas-strut assisted opening and closing, while the previous plastic air intake grill has been replaced with a perforated steel grill. The hood also has been improved for better durability and external noise reduction. To lower the cost of ownership for the customer JCB also has introduced steel bushes in the kingpost, dipper nose and bucket for increased durability.

For more information, visit www.jcb.com.

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