Case Construction Equipment has unveiled the first three models in an improved range of wheeled excavators: the WX148, WX168 and WX188.
The machine trio are said to benefit from the power and performance of a three-pump hydraulic system, with a dedicated swing pump, a new engine speed/working mode selection dial, a heavy-duty undercarriage and an improved operator’s cab. The revisions are also said byDedicating one pump of the three-pump hydraulic system to the slew function enables continuous movement and allows the operator to multi-function the controls for smooth, productive digging performance. The extra powerful hydraulics are managed by Case Intelligent Hydraulic System control, said by the Italian firm to offer a single CPU for improved controllability and simplified diagnostics.
Automatic Powerboost is included on all three of the new wheeled excavator models, to deliver optimum performance for heavy breakout and lifting operations. There is also an automatic power increase in travel mode to ensure rapid travel between working areas.
A new engine speed and new working mode selection dial provides a single point of contact for the operator when setting the machine to work. This dial delivers low idle speed; Lift 1 and 2 modes for dedicated lifting work; Eco working modes 1, 2 and 3; plus a Heavy Mode for maximum excavating performance. There is also a dedicated road travel mode for rapid relocation between sites.
Case Intelligent Swing (CIS) is said to allow the operator to adjust upper structure slew speed to suit a variety of work sites. The machines offer four swing acceleration settings and three deceleration settings, adding to the wheeled excavators’ versatility and, Case says, make the machines easier to operate in confined urban situations.
The latest WX models have an extremely robust chassis with the option of a dozer blade, a dozer blade and stabilisers, or stabilisers front and rear, for total balance and a solid working platform.
The machines drive through a new fully automatic hydrostatic powershift transmission that is directly mounted to the rear axle for maximum ground clearance. With new heavy duty ZF axles, the excavators deliver high travel speeds up to 35km/h, yet also provide total control on site through a creep speed function.
The robust axle design is said to offer excellent drawbar pull, and the axles feature an auto locking system for maximum stability when working without stabilisers.
Multi-disc wet brakes and axle oil change intervals of 2,000 hours are said by Case to deliver reduced operating costs and reassuringly powerful braking from full speed. Customers can choose single tyres, twin tyres or super wide tyres for maximum flotation off-road.
The ROPS/FOPS operator’s cab on the WX machines is said to fully meet all EU regulations, providing a comfortable and safe working environment. Fitted with automatic air conditioning, an air-suspended seat and completely adjustable controls, the cab is designed with reduced operator fatigue and increased productivity in mind.
All WX machine travel functions have been centralised on the steering column, with other switchgear grouped for ease of operator reach. A new LCD multifunction monitor provides information for the operator and integrated diagnostic functions for service engineers.
All three excavators have new long life bushings as part of their robust boom and arm design. These provide 500 hour greasing intervals for the WX168 and WX188, and 100 hour intervals for the WX148. Safety valves are standard on the main boom, and Case offers a handling kit including dipper arm safety valves, loading hook or eye and an overload warning system as an option.
Wide opening service access doors are said to provide excellent ground level serviceability, with remote mounted oil and fuel filters along with remote grouping for grease points. A refuelling pump is easily reached from ground level and the machines have side by side radiators for maximum cooling efficiency. There is a removable net protecting the radiators, making it easier to clean the cooling pack in dusty conditions.
