Hammering Out the Detail on the JCB 56Z-2

We were recently among a select number of bloggers, vloggers and industry journalists who were invited up to the JCB quarry to try out some of the new machines the Staffordshire based manufacturer has launched, among them was the 56Z-2.

The 56Z-2 slots in to JCB’s 4 to 6 tonne range of Stage 5 emissions compliant mini excavators in between the 50Z-2 zero tails swing model and the 6-tonne conventional tail swing 60C-2. 

The machine is powered by a Perkins turbo charged 3-cylinder water cooled engine which produces a power output rating of 36kw @2000rpm.

JCB suggest that the engine can save owners/end users up to 5% in fuel savings and in addition requires no AdBlue to meet the emissions regulations, so less expenditure required in that department too.

These machines are also fitted with the latest blue-chip components like Bosch-Rexroth electro-hydraulic systems and Nachi track and slew motors.

A big focus on these machines has been improvements to the operator’s comfort levels, with a new easy to use layout of controls, high spec fully adjustable seat, Bluetooth radio with USB ports for your mobile devices and optional air-conditioning.

I spent more time on the smaller new model the 35Z-1, which I will be reporting on in more detail in a future edition of Earthmovers Magazine, but on the 56Z-2, I spent some brief time operating it running the JCB HM26T hydraulic hammer.

Checkout the interview between my friend and industry colleague Peter Haddock and JCB Product Specialist Martin Norry filmed on the day.

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