Heavy Equipment Guide Logo

Utilize a 23 percent swing torque increase with Kobelco's new 25-ton excavator

A yellow excavator on a white background
A Kobelco SK260LC-11 excavator

Kobelco Construction Machinery USA Inc. (KCMU) has launched the new SK260LC-11 excavator. The excavator delivers ideal performance, efficiency, and productivity and follows the Kobelco "performance by design" concept.

Since the development of the first ‘SK' series 25-ton Kobelco excavator in 1983, this size class has grown in popularity due to its versatility in various general construction applications. Equipped with a new Tier IV Final Yanmar engine, the new SK260LC-11 delivers 194 net hp and 577 pounds per foot of torque at 1,500 rpm, which is a 23 percent increase in torque versus the previous model. With 42,000 lb. of bucket digging force, 63,300 lb.-ft. of swing torque, and 55,600 lb. of drawbar pulling force, the Kobelco SK260LC-11 utilizes strong digging and operating power. The new -11 series offers more standard features and overall added value than previous models. 

The excavator uses an ‘Independent Travel' function which dedicates one hydraulic pump to travel and one to the attachment on a continuous basis to help with smooth operating while moving heavy objects and materials. The machine's 60,200 lb. operating weight provides stability and lifting capacity. Like most Kobelco heavy excavators, the SK260LC-11 has three work modes: Eco, S, and H mode for balancing between performance, economy, and low fuel consumption. The in-cab hydraulic pressure release function allows operators to change work tools or hoses easily and safely.

Many major components of the SK260LC-11 have been redesigned for improved durability and performance. The machine's side panels have been made thicker to enhance body rigidity, while the increased diameter of the bucket cylinder pin contributes to the durability needed for using various work tools. 

The SK260LC-11 comes with pre-installed mounting brackets for easier system installation without the need to weld and paint for machine guidance options. These brackets are designed to adapt to multiple brands of providers for both 2D and 3D systems.

The SK260LC-11 comes with a seven-way adjustable heated air suspension seat that moves together with the armrests and hydraulic controls. This cabin reduces operator fatigue and provides ideal shock absorption and comfort while operating. The operator's pilot levers move horizontally without arching of the wrist while also providing shorter lever strokes to deliver a quick, precise movement. Air conditioning and heater vents are directed toward the operator.

A 10-inch colour monitor comes as standard with the excavator. The monitor's menu screen shows work mode, maintenance intervals, and fuel consumption, and provides a 270-degree view from the machine's camera system. The hydraulic flow-rate modes of the bucket, breaker, nibbler, and rotating grapple are fully adjustable by the operator through the monitor, and the mode settings for other attachments, such as a tilt rotator, can also be easily added or changed. All internal switches and dials in the cabin have LED backlighting to provide a bright, clear view in the dark.

A standard radiator clean-out screen prevents larger material from clogging the radiator cooling fins and can be easily removed for cleaning. A hydraulic oil filter prevents foreign matter from entering the oil tank during maintenance, and all filters are easy to access from ground level.

A Level II overhead top guard is provided as standard and can be tilted open for easy window cleaning. Rear swing flashers and rear work lights are integrated into the counterweight for added safety on busy job sites. Seven LED lights are also now standard.

Operators can also view the SK260LC-11's work status remotely with KOMEXS (Kobelco Monitoring Excavator System). Operational information, such as hours, fuel consumption, and maintenance status, can be obtained remotely. An engine start alarm, e-fence, and current/past location history are also included – ideal for operators of large fleets and multiple locations.

Company info

Related Articles