John Deere’s 180G LC hydraulic excavator is an 18-metric ton model that provides a larger mid-size excavator solution with an Interim Tier4-certifed (IT4) engine. The new 180G LC joins the G-Series hydraulic excavator line.

The 180G LC features a 121hp IT4/EU Stage IIIB John Deere PowerTech diesel engine that meets rigid emissions regulations. The new unit employs filed-proven cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) for reducing NOx, and a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) to reduce particulate matter. Extended engine and hydraulic oil service intervals increase uptime and reduce daily operating costs.

The hydraulically driven fan at the heart of the excavators’ cooling system runs only as needed, reducing noise, fuel consumption, and operating costs. The cooling system keeps things running cool, even in high-trash environments and high altitude. An automatic or operator-activated reversing option back-blows cooler cores to keep them clean and free of debris.

The 180G LC comes equipped with a Powerwise III hydraulic management system that balances engine performance and hydraulic flow for predictable operation.

Three productivity modes (high-productivity, power, economy) allow an operator to choose the digging style that fits the task at hand. High-productivity delivers more power and faster hydraulic response to move material. Power delivers a balance of power, speed, and fuel economy for normal application, and economy reduces top speed and helps save fuel. In addition, a “power boost” button on the right hand control provides extra muscle to drive through tough digging conditions. The Machine Information Center (MIC) captures and stores vital machine performance and utilization data to help improve productivity, uptime, and profit.

With a focus on operator comfort, the 180G LC cab features self-cleaning steps and wide entryways. In addition, the cab is spacious and provides extra legroom. Silicone-filled mounts effectively isolate operators from noise and vibration, affording a noticeably quieter cab. Operators will also appreciate unsurpassed all-around visibility, low-effort joysticks, a highly efficient HVAC system, and other amenities to help with productivity. A sculpted mechanical-suspension high-back seat has 12 1/2 inches of travel, sliding together or independent of the joystick console. For even more support, contractors can opt for the air-suspension heated seat. The cab also includes the multi-language LCD control monitor to simplify navigation.

Operators have quick access to information such as engine rpm and oil temperature, and they can easily check maintenance intervals, adjust cab temperature, tune the radio and select productivity modes. In addition, short-throw pilot levers provide smooth, predictable fingertip controls with less movement or effort. Pushbuttons in the right lever allow fingertip control of auxiliary hydraulic flow for operating attachments.

Easy-maintenance features include large, easy-to-open service doors and easy-access service points. Remote-mounted vertical oil and fuel filters, and extended engine and hydraulic oil-change intervals minimize maintenance. In addition, MIC, LCD monitor, and fluid-sample ports help with timely decisions about machine upkeep. Standard boom/frame lights and cab/boom-mounted optional lights provide illumination to extend the workday beyond normal daylight hours. Other traditional John Deere features include tungsten-carbide thermal-coated arm surfaces, oil-impregnated bushings, and welded-boom bulkheads. An optional camera is also available that displays action behind the excavator on the LCD monitor.

A standard three-year subscription of JDLink continuously collects and transmits machine data for machine management. The system enables timely preventive maintenance and remote diagnostics, as well as the coordination of machines working on multiple jobsites to get the right machine to the right place at the right time.

The 180G LC is available with a variety of track widths, arm lengths, buckets, and other options.