Kubota Tractor Corporation reinforces on the success of its Compact KX-2 compact excavators with the introduction of the new K008 ultra compact excavator. The smaller, lighter K008 incorporates virtually all the design features and specifications that made the KX-2 compact excavator so popular. The Kubota K008’s versatility and usefulness provides access to areas that were previously out of reach of existing compact excavators. Highlighting this dominance is the K008’s ability to pass through a standard doorframe, accessing hard to reach or restricted work areas such as indoor demolition, pool contractors or utility and pipeline projects with ease. The K008’s hydraulically adjustable track frame allows the operator to adjust the position of the tracks with a simple motion of the control lever. Positioned in their inboard location, the K008 provides an ultra-slim profile of just 70 centimeters (27.6 in.). Once clear of the doorway or other obstacle, the tracks can be extended to a width of 86 centimeters (33.9 in.) providing a more stable platform during final positioning and while performing the job. Further contributing to the K008’s versatility is an operational weight of 865 kilograms (1,906 lbs.). The K008’s 18-centimeter (7.1 in.) wide track and 90-centimeter (35.4 in.) track length allow for a feather light ground contact pressure of just .23 bar (3.27 psi). The operational weight allows the K008 to be pulled by virtually any light truck or van, making it easy to transport around the farm or to the next job site. Kubota’s 9.1-meter (30 ft.) track frame helps keep soil and debris from falling into the track system and increasing wear and tear. Easily accessed service ports and grease fittings make servicing the track system components a simple proposition. The easy lube main swivel bearing and forced lubrication track tensioner help keep everything sliding smoothly even after many hours of work-site operation. Kubota’s E-TVCS diesel engine family provides the motivation force in the form of the three- cylinder D722 liquid-cooled overhead valve diesel engine. The little engine delivers 7.5 kilowatts (10.1 hp) at 2,000 rpm. The peak engine power also occurs at a lower rpm level thus contributing to the excavators’ smooth and quiet operation. The efficiency of Kubota’s E-TVCS also helps the engine operate in an environmentally friendly manner meeting all Federal EPA emission regulations. As with chassis maintenance, servicing the engine is a quick and easy task. Under the lockable tilt-up engine cover, daily check items such as the visual fluid reservoirs, grease fittings and dual element air cleaner are easily accessed, checked and serviced if necessary. Maximum travel speed for the K008 is 2.1 kilometers per hour (1.3 mph. The operator’s station was designed to provide a safe, efficient and comfortable work place. Details include a suspension seat with folding arm rests, retractable seat belt and hydraulic pilot control systems that are light to the touch and positioned within easy reach, thus contributing to reduced operator fatigue. Lockable control levers are standard equipment and assist in keeping the K008 safe and secure when not in use. Finishing the package is a standard two-post ROPS. While the K008 might be technically known as an ultra-compact excavator, the performance capabilities of its bucket system are certainly capable of serious operations. Kubota’s hydraulic system translates the K008’s power into quick, smooth and powerful operations. The 10.6 liters per minute (2.8 gpm) hydraulic pump provides ample power in all operations and assures quick cycle time. Kubota’s attention to detail and quality are evident via the routing of the hydraulic control hoses, protected boom cylinder and the standard auxiliary hydraulics. The boom-bucket assembly has a maximum reach of 3 meters (9 ft. 11 in.) allowing the K008 to reach into and operate in extremely tight situations. This also contributes to the K008’s substantial 1.7-meter (5 ft. 7 in.) digging depth and 2-meter (6 ft. 7 in.) dump height abilities. Attachments include the standard issue 35-centimeter (14 in.) bucket, optional 25-centimeter (10 in.) bucket as well as a hydraulic hammer. Quick release bucket pins allow quick and easy on and off operation of all attachments. The K008’s 20-centimeter (7.9 in.) rear blade has an adjustable width of either 70 or 86 centimeters (27.6 or 33.9 in.). In its lowest position, the blade is capable of dropping 10 centimeters (4 in.) below ground level allowing the K008 to move a large amount of soil or other materials quickly and efficiently. At its maximum lift height the blade can be positioned 15 centimeters (6.1 in.) above the ground enabling easy movement regardless of the terrain. For more information, call 888/4-KUBOTA, ext. 900 or visit www.kubota.com. This story also appears on Construction Equipment Guide.
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