This notice is to inform owners and operators of Chinese excavators of two critical issues that may arise when integrating new attachments or attempting to utilise standard hitching systems: discrepancies in hydraulic oil flow specifications and variations in hitch dimensions.
1. HYDRAULIC OIL FLOW DISCREPANCIES: ACTUAL VS. ADVERTISED
We have observed instances where the actual hydraulic oil flow (litres per minute - LPM) from Chinese excavators, particularly for auxiliary circuits designed to power attachments, may differ significantly from figures advertised in catalogues, promotional materials, or specifications provided by manufacturers.
Below is an example of an advertised flow range which may be misleading to the machine’s actual capabilities. This example has been mistaken for the auxiliary flow. The customer purchased a much larger auger drive than required. We picked up on this when we enquired about the machines hitch specs
Impact: Insufficient or inconsistent oil flow can severely compromise the performance, efficiency, and even the safe operation of hydraulic attachments such as hammers, augers, mulchers, and tilt hitches. Attachments designed for a specific flow rate may operate slowly, generate excessive heat, experience premature wear, or simply fail to function correctly if the excavator's actual hydraulic output does not match the advertised specifications.
Recommendation: Before purchasing or attempting to operate any hydraulic attachment, we strongly advise you to:
- Verify the actual auxiliary hydraulic oil flow of your specific Chinese excavator model by contacting your OEM sales representative, through independent testing or by consulting a qualified hydraulic specialist. Do not rely solely on advertised figures.
- Communicate the confirmed actual oil flow to your attachment supplier to ensure compatibility and optimal performance.
2. HITCH DIMENSION VARIATIONS: IMPLICATIONS FOR ATTACHMENT FITMENT
Our company has been manufacturing high-quality excavator hitches and attachment systems for over 13 years. During this extensive period, we have developed and refined our hitch dimensions to meet industry standards, which have been proven to perfectly fit and operate with the vast majority of Japanese, American, European, better known Chinese excavator brands and models.
The Challenge with Lessor Known Chinese Excavators: While many Chinese excavators may appear visually similar to their Western or Japanese counterparts, we have encountered significant variations in hitch pin diameters, pin centres, and ear widths on some Chinese excavator models. These differences mean that a standard hitch designed for Japanese, American, or European machines may not directly fit certain lessor known and rebranded Chinese excavators.
Impact: If the hitch dimensions of your Chinese excavator differ from these established standards, further modifications to the hitch or the excavator itself maybe be required to ensure a secure, safe, and functional connection for any attachment.
Customer Responsibility for Modifications: Please be advised that if such modifications or adjustments are necessary due to non-standard Chinese excavator hitch dimensions, the customer will be solely responsible for all associated costs. This includes, but is not limited to, labour, materials, and any re-engineering required to achieve proper fitment.
Recommendation: To avoid unexpected costs and delays:
- Provide precise and accurate measurements of your excavator's hitch dimensions (pin diameter, pin centres, ear width) before ordering any new hitch or attachment.
- Supply clear photographs of your excavator's hitch area from multiple angles.
- Consult with our technical team to discuss your specific Chinese excavator model and confirm compatibility.
We encourage all Chinese excavator owners to take these critical points into consideration to ensure the safe, efficient, and cost-effective integration of attachments with their machinery.
