Each Monday over the coming weeks, we are posting specs reviews of some of Australia’s top selling mini excavator models as listed in the recent article on this website. Today it’s JCB’s 18Z..

Since its introduction in 2019, the JCB 18Z has become a favourite among operators who demand precision, power and versatility in tight spaces.

Subscribers can compare the specs for this machine against similar models from other manufacturers, in our annual print editions, online or via the PS Lookup App. Subscribe now.

Weighing in at 1,749 kg, the JCB 18Z is the epitome of compact efficiency. 

Its sleek design and minimal tail-swing radius of 685mm make it ideal for working in confined areas where larger machines simply can’t go. 

Despite its small footprint, this mini excavator packs a punch with an impressive dig depth of 2,426mm and a reach at ground level of 3,834mm. 

The standard bucket capacity of 0.04 cubic metres and a bucket width of 300mm ensure precise material handling, while the bucket breakout force of 1,030 kgf and arm breakout force of 1,835 kgf provide the muscle needed to tackle tough jobs. 

The machine’s ability to dig to a maximum depth of 2,598mm and dump at a height of 1,933mm further enhances its versatility, making it a reliable partner for a wide range of tasks.

Powering the JCB 18Z is the Perkins 403D-07 Tier III engine, a proven powerhouse that delivers 11.7 kW at 2,550 rpm. 

This three-cylinder engine is not only fuel-efficient but also compatible with B20 biodiesel.

With an engine size of 0.762 litres, the 18Z strikes a balance between performance and environmental responsibility.

The hydraulic system features a VDAP pump type with a relief valve pressure of 235 bar and a main pump flow rate of 36 litres per minute. 

This ensures smooth and responsive operation, even when handling heavy loads. 

The inclusion of a spare spool for attachments adds to the machine’s adaptability, allowing operators to switch between tools quickly and efficiently.

The machine’s transport dimensions – 3,547mm in length, 2,340mm in height, and a width ranging from 980mm to 1,330mm – make it easy to move between job sites. 

Additionally, the 18Z boasts a ground clearance of 162mm and a track length on the ground of 1,220mm, ensuring stability and traction on uneven terrain.

With a trackpad width of 230mm and a travel speed of 2.4 km/h in low gear and 4.1 km/h in high gear, the 18Z is as mobile as it is powerful. 

Its gradeability ensures it can handle slopes and challenging landscapes, making it a reliable choice for a variety of environments.

To access the specifications for the JCB 18Z, subscribe to PS Plant Specs Online, click here.