11 hours ago
The Link-Belt Excavator Lineage and the 2700 Series
Link-Belt excavators trace their roots to the Link-Belt Company founded in 1874, which later became part of Sumitomo Heavy Industries. By the 1990s, Link-Belt had established a reputation for building durable, operator-friendly hydraulic excavators for the North American market. The 2700 series, including the 2700 Quantum and 2700Q, was designed as a mid-to-large class crawler excavator, typically weighing around 27 metric tons and powered by an Isuzu 6BG1T turbocharged diesel engine producing approximately 180 horsepower.
The 2700 was built for general excavation, site prep, and light demolition. It featured a two-pump hydraulic system with load-sensing capabilities, a spacious cab with analog gauges, and a rugged undercarriage suited for rough terrain. Thousands of units were sold across the U.S., Canada, and Latin America, with strong adoption in infrastructure and utility sectors.
Core Specifications and Capabilities
Typical specs for the Link-Belt 2700 include:
The 2700’s balance between power and control made it a favorite for trenching, slope shaping, and material loading. Its mechanical simplicity also made it easier to maintain in remote or harsh environments.
Operator Experience and Field Observations
Operators often describe the 2700 as predictable and forgiving. The boom and arm response is smooth, with enough breakout force to handle compacted soil and light rock. The cab, while basic by modern standards, offers good visibility and intuitive controls.
In 2003, a contractor in Colorado used a 2700Q for a mountain road project. Despite elevation and temperature swings, the machine ran consistently, with only minor hydraulic tuning needed. The operator noted that the swing motor was slower than newer models but appreciated the machine’s fuel efficiency and low-end torque.
A fleet in Ontario reported that their 2700 units averaged 12,000 hours before requiring major engine work. Most issues were related to hydraulic leaks, electrical connectors, and undercarriage wear—common for machines in that class and age.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting Tips
As with any aging excavator, the Link-Belt 2700 can develop quirks. Common problems include:
Preventive Maintenance and Upgrade Options
To extend the life of a Link-Belt 2700:
Parts Availability and Restoration Notes
Although the 2700 is no longer in production, parts remain available through LBX dealers and aftermarket suppliers. Key components like hydraulic pumps, swing motors, and undercarriage assemblies are still supported. Restoration tips:
Conclusion
The Link-Belt 2700 excavator remains a durable and capable machine, even decades after its release. With solid digging power, reliable hydraulics, and a straightforward mechanical layout, it continues to serve operators who value simplicity and strength. Whether trenching in clay or lifting pipe in a utility corridor, the 2700 proves that good design endures. With proper care and smart upgrades, it can remain a productive part of any fleet.
Link-Belt excavators trace their roots to the Link-Belt Company founded in 1874, which later became part of Sumitomo Heavy Industries. By the 1990s, Link-Belt had established a reputation for building durable, operator-friendly hydraulic excavators for the North American market. The 2700 series, including the 2700 Quantum and 2700Q, was designed as a mid-to-large class crawler excavator, typically weighing around 27 metric tons and powered by an Isuzu 6BG1T turbocharged diesel engine producing approximately 180 horsepower.
The 2700 was built for general excavation, site prep, and light demolition. It featured a two-pump hydraulic system with load-sensing capabilities, a spacious cab with analog gauges, and a rugged undercarriage suited for rough terrain. Thousands of units were sold across the U.S., Canada, and Latin America, with strong adoption in infrastructure and utility sectors.
Core Specifications and Capabilities
Typical specs for the Link-Belt 2700 include:
- Operating weight: 26,500–28,000 kg
- Engine: Isuzu 6BG1T, 6-cylinder turbo diesel
- Horsepower: ~180 hp
- Max digging depth: ~6.5 meters
- Max reach at ground level: ~9.5 meters
- Bucket capacity: 0.8–1.2 cubic meters
- Hydraulic flow: ~200 liters per minute
- Swing speed: ~10 rpm
- Travel speed: ~5 km/h
The 2700’s balance between power and control made it a favorite for trenching, slope shaping, and material loading. Its mechanical simplicity also made it easier to maintain in remote or harsh environments.
Operator Experience and Field Observations
Operators often describe the 2700 as predictable and forgiving. The boom and arm response is smooth, with enough breakout force to handle compacted soil and light rock. The cab, while basic by modern standards, offers good visibility and intuitive controls.
In 2003, a contractor in Colorado used a 2700Q for a mountain road project. Despite elevation and temperature swings, the machine ran consistently, with only minor hydraulic tuning needed. The operator noted that the swing motor was slower than newer models but appreciated the machine’s fuel efficiency and low-end torque.
A fleet in Ontario reported that their 2700 units averaged 12,000 hours before requiring major engine work. Most issues were related to hydraulic leaks, electrical connectors, and undercarriage wear—common for machines in that class and age.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting Tips
As with any aging excavator, the Link-Belt 2700 can develop quirks. Common problems include:
- Hydraulic drift in boom or arm due to worn cylinder seals
- Engine stalling under load from fuel delivery issues
- Electrical faults in dash gauges or ignition circuit
- Swing bearing play from lack of grease or worn races
- Travel motor hesitation due to clogged case drain filters
- Rebuild hydraulic cylinders with OEM seal kits
- Replace fuel filters every 250 hours and inspect lift pump
- Clean and reseal electrical connectors with dielectric grease
- Grease swing bearing weekly and inspect for metal shavings
- Flush hydraulic system and replace case drain filters annually
Preventive Maintenance and Upgrade Options
To extend the life of a Link-Belt 2700:
- Use high-quality hydraulic oil and monitor viscosity
- Replace air and fuel filters on schedule
- Inspect track tension weekly and adjust as needed
- Grease all pivot points daily
- Monitor engine coolant and radiator cleanliness
- LED lighting for night work
- Suspension seat retrofit for operator comfort
- Auxiliary hydraulic lines for thumbs or compactors
- Digital hour meter and fault code reader
- Cab insulation for noise reduction
Parts Availability and Restoration Notes
Although the 2700 is no longer in production, parts remain available through LBX dealers and aftermarket suppliers. Key components like hydraulic pumps, swing motors, and undercarriage assemblies are still supported. Restoration tips:
- Source manuals for torque specs and hydraulic diagrams
- Replace all rubber hoses with modern equivalents rated for 3,000 psi
- Rewire electrical systems using marine-grade cable
- Pressure test hydraulic circuits before reassembly
- Document all rebuild steps for future reference
Conclusion
The Link-Belt 2700 excavator remains a durable and capable machine, even decades after its release. With solid digging power, reliable hydraulics, and a straightforward mechanical layout, it continues to serve operators who value simplicity and strength. Whether trenching in clay or lifting pipe in a utility corridor, the 2700 proves that good design endures. With proper care and smart upgrades, it can remain a productive part of any fleet.
