Link-Belt Excavators adds long-front machines to its X4S series

Link-Belt Excavators' X4S series introduces design and technology updates aimed at enhancing the efficiency, usability, and versatility of long-front excavators. With the release of the 220, 260, and 370 X4S Long Front excavators, this generation reflects a redesign driven by customer demand to address the evolving requirements operators face to stay job-ready.

During my conversation with Wyatt Skaggs, associate product manager at Link-Belt Excavators, he shared that the innovation behind these new machines was heavily influenced by what customers had to say. "We take this feedback, observe key trends, whether it's legislation in Canada or America or wherever we're selling to, and use these as metrics. That's our strategy on product development beyond things that we've already been focusing on: efficiency, comfort, and great-performing products."

A customer-driven solution

Customer feedback is central to Link-Belt's development process. Through its Voice of Customer (VOC) and Voice of Dealer (VOD) programs, Link-Belt gathers insights from end users to inform product development. "The best feedback comes from operators who use these machines every day," says Skaggs. "They tell us what works, what doesn't, and what they need. Our job is to listen and incorporate that into our designs."

To ensure its dealer network is equipped to support these updates, Link-Belt offers comprehensive training programs. Through its Alpha dealer network, it also provides specialized support for models equipped with factory-installed machine control systems, ensuring its distributors have the expertise needed to help customers integrate this technology efficiently. Through its Customer Experience Center in Lexington, Kentucky, Link-Belt provides a dedicated space for hands-on training, allowing dealers and operators to build practical skills and gain experience with both standard models and those equipped with advanced features.

Applications for long-front excavators

Link-Belt's long front machines — the 220, 260, and 370 X4S models — are designed to handle specialized tasks that require extended reach and precision. Each of the three machines offers notable reach capabilities. The 220 model extends up to 50 feet 10 inches, the 260 model reaches 59 feet 9 inches, and the 370 model provides the greatest reach at 60 feet 10 inches. 

These machines excel in applications such as ditch cleaning, slope finishing, and waterway maintenance. Operators often rely on long-front excavators to reach the sediment levels in ponds, lakes, and canals or to clear debris from waterways. Their extended reach also makes them useful for maintaining vegetation on steep slopes, especially when operating from a safe distance on elevated ground. In urban construction, long-front excavators are sometimes used for deep excavation tasks, such as digging foundations for high-rise buildings, where material must be moved efficiently from deep pits to the surface.

The long-front models are built to handle deep excavation tasks with ease. The 220 X4S Long Front model can dig up to 39 feet 5 inches, while the 260 model extends to 47 feet 9 inches. The 370 model offers a maximum digging depth of 46 feet 3 inches.

The X4S series excavators are built to handle demanding tasks with substantial operating weights. The 220 X4S weighs in at 52,000 pounds (23,600 kg), while the 260 X4S comes in at 63,900 pounds (29,000 kg). The largest model, the 370 X4S, has an operating weight of 88,400 pounds (41,100 kg), providing the stability and power needed for heavy-duty applications.

Designed for maximum comfort

The X4S series cab is designed with operator comfort and safety in mind. It features a spacious interior with ample legroom, a high-back heated seat, and a tilting function to reduce fatigue during long shifts. A 10-inch anti-glare LCD monitor provides clear visibility in various lighting conditions and can be customized to display essential machine data. The proprietary WAVES system offers enhanced job site awareness.

Technology integration makes machine control easier

One of the features of the Link-Belt Excavators' X4S generation is its precision-grade readiness. Unlike previous models, the new excavators come equipped with factory-welded brackets and pre-installed connectors, making it significantly easier to install grade control technology. "With the X4S series, we've drastically reduced installation time," explains Skaggs. "For customers and dealers, that means faster turnaround times and minimal downtime when adding machine control solutions." 

In addition to the redesign that makes these models machine-control ready when operators want to upgrade, the 220 X4S and the 370 X4S Long Front can be ordered with machine-control technology factory installed.

"Technology adoption is shifting from optional to necessary," says Skaggs. "Bid requirements are increasingly mandating grade-control technology, machine-control technology, safety features, and efficiency improvements. With the X4S generation, we focused on simplifying the integration process so customers can upgrade their machines without major modifications."

This technology is designed for operators working on underwater slopes or sediment removal projects, allowing them to achieve the desired grade. The WAVES system (Wide Angle Visual Enhancement System) — a 270-degree camera view — and the 10-inch LCD monitor are critical features that improve situational awareness. These tools are particularly useful in confined or low-visibility environments, such as when operating on a barge or near congested waterways. These enhanced visibility features provide essential machine data and help operators navigate complex worksites more safely and efficiently.

Link-Belt Excavators currently partners with Trimble for grade control solutions. This upgrade addresses the industry-wide trend of a younger, less experienced workforce operating heavy equipment. "Newer operators may not have the years of hands-on experience that previous generations did," says Skaggs. "Technology like precision grade control helps bridge that gap by making operations more intuitive and precise."

Hydraulic innovation for efficient performance

The new X4S lineup features a refined hydraulic system, including an electronically controlled hydraulic pump and an industry-recognized SSC (Spool Stroke Control) system. This system optimizes hydraulic pressure distribution, so power is directed where needed based on real-time machine activity. "It's similar to how modern all-wheel-drive vehicles distribute power to different tires based on driving conditions," explains Skaggs. "The system automatically adjusts hydraulic output, reducing unnecessary energy consumption while maintaining peak performance."

This hydraulic system also contributes to lower maintenance costs. By minimizing unnecessary strain on pumps and hoses, the system prolongs component life and reduces wear and tear. 

Operational efficiency and fuel economy

Another design focus for the X4S lineup is fuel efficiency. Powered by the Isuzu Tier 4 Final engine, these excavators achieve up to 7 percent improved fuel consumption without the need for a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). This design cuts fuel costs and eliminates DPF-related maintenance and replacement expenses.

Operators can customize performance with four selectable power modes — Speed Priority, Power, Eco, and Lift — allowing for specific optimization. Whether operators need maximum digging force or fuel conservation, this flexibility allows them to balance power and efficiency depending on the task.

Understanding the needs of today's operators

Also of note, alongside the launch of the 220, 260, and 370 X4S Long Front excavators, Link-Belt unveiled the 370 X4S Hydraulic Excavator, a conventional version of the 370 X43 Long Front. It shares features with the rest of the X4S lineup, including Digital Level, Dynamic Stability Assist, Height and Depth Alarm, and Payload.
"Our team takes pride in what we do, and we genuinely care about building the best machines for our customers," says Skaggs. "At the end of the day, it's about providing reliable, high-performing equipment that meets the evolving needs of today's operators."