Excavadora usada Hitachi ZX270 en venta

The Zaxis Series and What 'ZX270' Actually Means

Hitachi launched the Zaxis series to replace its older EX-series excavators, carrying the 'ZX' prefix as shorthand for Zaxis. The '270' refers to the machine's approximate operating weight class in hundreds of kilograms — a naming convention that makes it easy to compare machines across the lineup at a glance. You'll find several generations on the used market, commonly labeled ZX270, ZX270-3, and ZX270-5, each representing an update to the engine, hydraulics, and cab electronics. All three share the same basic size and job-site role, but a -5 model will generally run a cleaner, more fuel-efficient engine and updated onboard diagnostics compared to an original ZX270. When you're comparing listings, checking which generation you're looking at matters more than comparing hour meters alone, since a higher-hour -5 can still be the newer, more efficient machine.

Isuzu Power Under the Hood

Hitachi paired the Zaxis 270 with an Isuzu diesel engine (commonly the AA-6HK1 or a related variant depending on generation and market), delivering net output in the range of roughly 150–170 kW (about 200–230 hp). That's a meaningful step up from a 20-ton class machine, and it's what allows the ZX270 to swing a much larger bucket through a full cycle without bogging down — a key factor if the job is measured in tons-per-hour rather than just 'getting it dug'. Isuzu engines have a long track record in industrial and commercial vehicle applications outside of construction equipment as well, which means parts availability and diesel mechanic familiarity are generally strong even outside major cities. During inspection, we run the engine through a full load cycle, checking for smoke color under acceleration, oil pressure stability, and coolant temperature behavior.

Working Specifications for This Size Class

A 27-ton excavator is built for a different scale of job than the mid-size machines most buyers are used to comparing. In general terms across ZX270 generations: Operating weight typically runs 26,500–28,700 kg depending on undercarriage and counterweight configuration; Standard bucket capacity generally ranges 0.9–1.4 m³; Maximum digging depth is usually in the 6.6–7.5 m range; Maximum digging reach typically falls between 10.3–11.0 m; Travel speed is generally 3.0 km/h low range and up to roughly 5.5 km/h high range. These are platform-level figures, not the confirmed measurements for this specific unit. The actual bucket fitted, arm length, and counterweight on this machine are documented in its individual spec sheet.

Independent Swing Control and Hydraulic Response

One area where Hitachi has built a strong reputation is swing and hydraulic control precision — the ZX270 uses an independent hydraulic circuit design (TRIAS/HIOS) that lets the swing and digging motions draw power without fighting each other. In practice, that shows up as smoother multi-function operation: an operator can swing while curling the bucket without the machine hesitating or surging, which matters a lot when you're running hundreds of cycles a day and small inefficiencies add up to real fuel and time cost. On a used machine, we test this by running combined movements under load — full swing while digging, full swing while dumping — and listening and feeling for hesitation, which is often the first sign of a pump or swing motor starting to wear.

Undercarriage and Frame Built for Heavier Loads

Because a 27-ton machine puts significantly more load through its undercarriage, the track frame, rollers, and final drives on the ZX270 are built to a heavier spec than smaller models. We measure remaining undercarriage life as a percentage on tracks, rollers, idlers, and sprockets, and we check the swing gearbox and travel motors for oil condition and leakage. The main frame, boom foot, and arm pin bosses are tested for cracking or repair welds, with particular attention paid to the boom cylinder mounts, which are a common stress point on machines that have spent time in rock-heavy digging conditions.

Cab, Monitor, and Daily Operation

The Zaxis cab is built around a wide front window and a slimmer front pillar design intended to improve the operator's direct view of the bucket and track edges. Poor sightlines translate directly into slower, more cautious cycle times. Later generations added an onboard monitor with basic diagnostic and fuel-consumption data, which is worth checking during inspection since a malfunctioning monitor can mask early warning codes. We verify the air conditioning, seat suspension, all gauges, and monitor function as part of every listing's inspection.

Where This Machine Gets Used

Buyers typically look at a ZX270-class excavator for high-production projects where volume and tonnage targets matter most. Common applications include: Quarry and aggregate loading; Large-scale site clearing and bulk earthmoving ahead of major construction; Mining support and haul road maintenance; Port, rail, and heavy infrastructure projects; Bulk material handling paired with larger attachments. It's less common to see a machine this size on small residential jobs where a lighter, more maneuverable excavator makes more sense.

What to Check Before Buying a Used 27-Ton Excavator

Beyond general engine and hydraulic checks, a few things matter more specifically at this size and duty class. Key focus areas include: Final drive and travel motor condition; Boom and arm weld history; Counterweight and configuration match; Swing gearbox oil sample; Total operating hours versus visible wear. Hours that don't match physical wear patterns are worth asking direct questions about. We include our findings on each of these points in the condition report.

Getting This Machine to Your Site

A machine in the ZX270's size class generally can't be shipped fully assembled inside a standard container. The boom and arm are typically removed and secured separately, with the main body loaded either as breakbulk cargo, on a flat-rack container, or fully disassembled into a standard container. We'll recommend the right method once we know your destination. The process covers unit confirmation, pricing, deposit/balance terms, pre-shipment inspection, export paperwork, and loading.

Hitachi ZX270 buyer FAQ

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