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Historical Background and Maker Overview
The Michigan L190 emerged in the late 1980s, produced between 1987 and 1991, as part of the Michigan/Volvo (later Volvo Construction Equipment) lineup—renowned for building rugged, mid to large-size wheeled loaders. These machines filled a niche for high-capacity, heavy-duty loading tasks. Although precise production figures remain internal, the L190 is respected among operators for performance and longevity.
Machine Specifications and Performance
Here are key operating specs and dimensions:
The L190 was ideal for heavy-duty operations needing rapid cycle loads—mining, quarries, large-scale construction, and material stockpiling—thanks to its strong hydraulic lift, robust engine, and ample bucket capacity.
Operator Insights and Anecdote
An operator in Alaska reported using an L190 in a gravel processing yard. He praised its ability to swiftly cycle heavy loads, dramatically boosting site productivity. Despite working in abrasive environments, regular hydraulic checks and filter changes allowed the machine to surpass 8,000 hours with minimal unplanned downtime.
Maintenance Tips
To keep an L190 in top shape:
A legacy model still respected today, the Michigan L190 regularly appears in global secondary markets, ranging from salvage to well-maintained used equipment. With rising interest in machine preservation, vintage models like the L190 are increasingly sought for their simplicity and mechanical robustness.
Summary
The Michigan L190 wheel loader is a heavy-duty workhorse from the late 1980s–90s. Equipped with a powerful Cummins engine, efficient hydraulic systems, and a generous bucket capacity, it excelled in demanding loading jobs. Its durability, solid design, and widespread parts availability made it a reliable choice for decades. With regular maintenance, these machines can remain productive long beyond their era.
The Michigan L190 emerged in the late 1980s, produced between 1987 and 1991, as part of the Michigan/Volvo (later Volvo Construction Equipment) lineup—renowned for building rugged, mid to large-size wheeled loaders. These machines filled a niche for high-capacity, heavy-duty loading tasks. Although precise production figures remain internal, the L190 is respected among operators for performance and longevity.
Machine Specifications and Performance
Here are key operating specs and dimensions:
- Engine
Six-cylinder Cummins NTA 855C335 producing about 290 hp (net) and up to 322 hp (gross) at 1,900 rpm. Peak torque is approximately 1,006 lb-ft at 1,400 rpm.
- Operating Weight
Around 59,780 lb (approximately 27,120 kg).
- Dimensions
- Length (with bucket on ground): about 29 ft 9 in (9.1 m)
- Width (over tires): approximately 10 ft 2 in (3.1 m)
- Cab height: around 12 ft 3 in (3.75 m)
- Length (with bucket on ground): about 29 ft 9 in (9.1 m)
- Bucket Performance
- Capacity up to 6 cu yd (about 4 m³), with breakout force near 58,563 lb.
- Capacity up to 6 cu yd (about 4 m³), with breakout force near 58,563 lb.
- Hydraulic System
- Gear-type pump delivering around 36 gal/min (134 L/min)
- Standard cycle times: lifting in about 7 sec, dumping in 3 sec, and lowering around 5 sec
- Relief set at 2,750 psi
- Gear-type pump delivering around 36 gal/min (134 L/min)
- Other Operational Specs
- Fuel tank: roughly 115 gal (436 L)
- Cooling fluid: about 20 gal (76 L)
- Alternator: 100 A; electrical system: 24 V
- Max speed: ~22 mph forward and reverse, via a Clark 4425-200 transmission with 4 gears each way
- Fuel tank: roughly 115 gal (436 L)
- Breakout Force: The hydraulic force available to lift or break heavy loads from ground.
- Gear-Type Pump: A hydraulic pump using interlocking gears for high-volume fluid delivery.
- Operating Weight: Total working mass of the machine including fluids, fuel, and attachments.
- Net vs Gross Power: Gross is the raw output at the flywheel; net accounts for power losses through drive systems.
- Relief Valve Setting: Hydraulic system’s safety release pressure.
The L190 was ideal for heavy-duty operations needing rapid cycle loads—mining, quarries, large-scale construction, and material stockpiling—thanks to its strong hydraulic lift, robust engine, and ample bucket capacity.
Operator Insights and Anecdote
An operator in Alaska reported using an L190 in a gravel processing yard. He praised its ability to swiftly cycle heavy loads, dramatically boosting site productivity. Despite working in abrasive environments, regular hydraulic checks and filter changes allowed the machine to surpass 8,000 hours with minimal unplanned downtime.
Maintenance Tips
To keep an L190 in top shape:
- Change hydraulic fluid and filters every 500–800 hours.
- Maintain correct tire pressure and monitor wear.
- Stick to scheduled coolant and engine oil checks.
- Keep hinge pins and pivot points well-lubricated and check daily for wear.
- Monitor hydraulic cylinder seals for signs of leaks.
- Service the transmission and axles at recommended intervals to prolong component lifespan.
A legacy model still respected today, the Michigan L190 regularly appears in global secondary markets, ranging from salvage to well-maintained used equipment. With rising interest in machine preservation, vintage models like the L190 are increasingly sought for their simplicity and mechanical robustness.
Summary
The Michigan L190 wheel loader is a heavy-duty workhorse from the late 1980s–90s. Equipped with a powerful Cummins engine, efficient hydraulic systems, and a generous bucket capacity, it excelled in demanding loading jobs. Its durability, solid design, and widespread parts availability made it a reliable choice for decades. With regular maintenance, these machines can remain productive long beyond their era.
