The new JCB 370X – the largest model in the X Series range of tracked excavators – was shown for the first time in Scotland at ScotPlant 2024. Dan Gilkes recently got behind the wheel to give his take on the model.
JCB has expanded its X-Series line-up of crawler excavators, with a move into the 35-40 tonne class. Originally launching in the 20-25 tonne market, the X-Series has been a big success for the global plant manufacturer, gradually replacing many of the firm’s small to medium tracked machines.
The 20-25 tonne sector is the biggest single market in Europe, closely followed by the 13-14 tonne class, which is also catered for by JCB’s X-Series excavators. Now the company is turning its attention to the third largest sector, in terms of machine sales, with the launch of the 370X.
A natural replacement for the JS370, which has only been sold outside of emissions-regulated markets for some years, the 370X is a totally new machine, though it boasts many of the design and engineering features already seen on its smaller stablemates.
That includes the sturdy steel body panels and reinforced double-skinned access doors that give the machine such a distinctive appearance.
The focus on durability is more than skid-deep though, as the machine has been built to cope with tough working conditions. It sits on a robust X-frame undercarriage with much deeper profiles.
There are new track motors and improved idler mountings, for additional stability on rough ground. Larger slew bearings add further rigidity and the machine is offered with a range of track pads, including heavy-duty tracks for both the LC and slimmer NLC track frames.
It’s a similar story above the slew ring, where the 370X uses a reinforced 6.45m mono boom with a choice of dipper arms.
Optional heavy-duty dippers come with additional internal reinforcing steel and external crush bars, to protect the arm. The bucket pin diameter has been increased from 90mm to 100mm, although JCB offers a dual pin quickhitch that can be used with either pin size.
There is even a new range of XHD heavy-duty buckets available, designed specifically for the 370X.
Power and performance
The machine uses the latest Cummins L9 diesel engine, that has been certified to meet both EU Stage V and US Tier 4 Final emissions regulations. This powerful six-cylinder engine delivers 240kW (322hp), which is a 14% rise in output when compared to the older JS model.
The engine delivers this output at a lower 1,700rpm, down from 1,900rpm on the previous machine, reducing noise levels and contributing to lower fuel consumption and exhaust emissions.
Operators can further tailor the engine output using Power, Eco and Lift modes. The Eco mode delivers the same output as Power mode on the previous generation machine, demonstrating the boost in output available.
In addition, there are nine throttle settings, providing the operator with the ability to call up exactly the right amount of power for each task.
To make the most of the new engine, the 370X uses the latest generation tandem hydraulic pump from Japanese manufacturer Kawasaki. With an increased 380 bar operating pressure available during power boost, the pumps deliver additional hydraulic power for heavy digging and lifting duties.
A reversing hydraulic cooling fan and latest generation main valve block also contribute to increased efficiency and reduced fuel consumption.
The combination is certainly effective. During a test session at JCB’s Kevin Quarry we were able to get behind the controls and dig and load into an articulated dump truck with the 370X.
For a machine of this size, the big JCB is incredibly smooth, offering real fingertip control of the boom and bucket functions. Even at lower rpm there is enough power to dig into the pile and there is plenty of output for smooth multi-functioning of controls. Sitting on top of the pile on an LC undercarriage, the 370X also delivered impressive stability, barely shifting its weight with a bucket at full reach across the tracks.
Comfort and control
JCB’s Command Plus cab is well established and offered on all of the X-Series machines. However, the 370X is the first to get the company’s latest user interface, dubbed JCB UX. Based around a new 10” colour touchscreen monitor, the system has a rotary controller and a switch panel with customisable hot keys.
Indeed, not only can the operator set the switches to meet their individual requirements, but all of the controls in the joystick heads can also be set-up to work in the way that the operator prefers. To achieve this, the hot keys are pulled up on the touchscreen and the operator can simply press on individual icons and drag them to the desired switch or control.
The system can store up to 25 different operator user profiles, including administrators that can control which settings can be used. This allows different operators to set the machine to their individual requirements, perfect for a rental machine, or to set the controls for different applications. Operators can even download their individual settings onto a USB stick and transfer them to another X-Series machine in the fleet if required.
The JCB cab is a comfortable place to spend the day, offering 2.86m3 of internal volume, which translates as more than enough space for drivers of all sizes. There is plenty of storage behind the heated, air suspended seat and the cab boasts a low noise level of just 69dB. Climate control, a DAB radio and keyless start are all on the specification list and the machine comes with cameras to the rear and to the side opposite the cab. A new option from JCB is an all-round camera system, using four cameras, that provides operators with multiple views through the new UX monitor.
The UX also further improves JCB’s optional Auto Tool Select (ATS) system. This hydraulic control system allows operators to fine tune hydraulic flows and pressures to suit individual attachments, saving the details for frequently used work tools. While most excavators have a system that can store various hydraulic flow settings, Auto Tool Select takes this further and ensures that operators can achieve optimum hydraulic performance for each individual attachment.
TCO
The 370X has extended service intervals, with hydraulic and air filters now requiring a change at 2,000 hours. Engine coolant can last up to 3,000 hours. The wide doors provide good access to filters and fill points, with all service bays benefitting from internal lighting. Talking of which, while LED working lights are now standard on the X-Series machine, the 370X can be ordered with up to 14 worklights for poor visibility and night time working.
A widecore radiator, with that reversing cooling fan, ensures that dust can be easily cleaned out to prevent overheating. The machine also benefits from Auto Idle and Auto Shutdown, keeping fuel consumption to a minimum.
At just under 40-tonnes operating weight, depending on specification, the 370X offers a maximum digging depth of 8.4m and a digging reach of up to 12.1m, when equipped with the longest 4.03m dipper arm. It is a powerful, productive machine, that takes JCB back into one of the most popular weight classes across the world.
Conclusion
Whether working in a quarry application, in civil engineering or in bulk earthmoving, the 370X is a huge step forward for JCB at this weight and it should get positive feedback, from operators and owners.
