Bobcat Excavator E20Z Review

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At Finbuild we’ve been lucky to be able to utilize all types and brands of reliable plant and equipment. When the opportunity for us to purchase an Bobcat Excavator, reliability and operator comfort were the priorities for us.

Comparison of the Bobcat Excavator E20Z and E17Z

Some of you may want to know the differences between Bobcats E17z and the E20z.

Longer boom: All in all, adds about 380mm to boom reach and dump height.

Heavier counterweight: As a result Increased lift capacity 30%+ SWL compared to the E17z radius whilst maintaining zero swing slew.

Dual thumb controls: The operator aux and boom slew controls have moved to the right and left respectfully. Removing the clumsy foot controls and adds precise, variable thumb leavers.

Apart from these differences the E20z and E17z are identical.

Now that is out of the way… You can see why having these features on the Bobcat Excavator E20Z would be handy. Do more for less time/ effort.

With this in mind Lets move on to the other features of the E20z that extends it’s lead over the competitors.

Pros

Breakout force: The Bobcat E20Z is high in its class. Put a single tyne ripper on and go stump pulling… you’ll find your only limit is stability, as the boom lift and bucket cylinder want to keep going.

Cab Space: Equally important If you’re on the large side of the pudding shop or a lanky string… you’ll know the importance of room – the E20z has plenty of height and width in the cab for any lad. However, the optional enclosed cab wont keep you cool in the Aussie heat as there no air-conditioning (heating only) and maybe more suited to the cooler climates.

Flow Rate: Second only to Caterpillar’s 301.8 – the E20z auxiliary has plenty of speed (30L/m) for an auger or breaker.

Peace of Mind: Bobcat has a 24month/2000hrs warranty with the E20z. Quality build, Yanmar engine and dealers/service centers dotted around the country.

Cons

Hitch as standard: The e20z has 3 aux ports on the valve block and wouldn’t be an issue to have a quick hitch (hydraulic) installed. at any rate there is not even a half hitch (manual) as standard.

Throttle: It’s lever/cable operated. It should be electric controlled and make use of the auto idle button that is already standard.

In addition, the throttle lever position is close to the boom control lever… this takes a bit to get used to moving your hand passed the throttle lever to use the blade control lever.