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Two Heavyweight Machines Built for Earthmoving Power
The Hitachi EX400LCH and EX400-1 are part of Hitachi’s legacy of large crawler excavators designed for mining, quarrying, and major infrastructure projects. These machines, introduced in the late 1980s and early 1990s, were built to endure harsh conditions and deliver consistent performance in high-volume excavation. With operating weights ranging from 40 to 45 metric tons, they sit in the upper tier of Hitachi’s EX series, offering deep digging capability, robust undercarriage design, and powerful hydraulic systems.
The EX400-1 was one of the earliest models in the 400-class, featuring a Cummins NTA855 engine rated at approximately 290 hp. It used a twin-pump hydraulic system with pilot controls and a mechanical travel motor setup. The EX400LCH variant added a long carriage (LC) undercarriage and heavy-duty boom and arm configurations, making it ideal for rock work and deep trenching. The “H” designation typically refers to heavy-duty applications, with reinforced structures and higher breakout forces.
Key Specifications and Performance Metrics
Global Demand and Export Trends
Hitachi excavators have long been favored in Asia, the Middle East, and Africa due to their durability and ease of maintenance. The EX400 series, in particular, saw strong export volumes from Japan and North America to Pakistan, India, and the Gulf states. Many units were refurbished and resold through independent dealers or equipment brokers.
In recent years, demand for used EX400LCH and EX400-1 units has increased among contractors seeking affordable alternatives to newer Tier 4 machines. These older models lack emissions control systems, making them easier to maintain in regions without strict environmental regulations.
Inspection Tips and Purchase Recommendations
Before purchasing a used EX400LCH or EX400-1:
Hitachi’s Excavator Legacy
Founded in 1910, Hitachi entered the construction equipment market in the 1960s and quickly became a global leader in hydraulic excavators. The EX series was a turning point, introducing advanced hydraulics and modular design. By the mid-1990s, Hitachi had sold tens of thousands of EX-series machines worldwide, with the EX400 class becoming a staple in large-scale earthmoving fleets.
Today, Hitachi continues to innovate with its ZX series, but the EX400 remains a symbol of mechanical strength and field-tested reliability.
Conclusion
The Hitachi EX400LCH and EX400-1 are proven performers in the 40-ton class, offering rugged construction and straightforward maintenance. For contractors seeking a dependable excavator without the complexity of modern electronics, these models remain a smart choice. With proper inspection and sourcing, they can deliver years of productive service in demanding environments.
The Hitachi EX400LCH and EX400-1 are part of Hitachi’s legacy of large crawler excavators designed for mining, quarrying, and major infrastructure projects. These machines, introduced in the late 1980s and early 1990s, were built to endure harsh conditions and deliver consistent performance in high-volume excavation. With operating weights ranging from 40 to 45 metric tons, they sit in the upper tier of Hitachi’s EX series, offering deep digging capability, robust undercarriage design, and powerful hydraulic systems.
The EX400-1 was one of the earliest models in the 400-class, featuring a Cummins NTA855 engine rated at approximately 290 hp. It used a twin-pump hydraulic system with pilot controls and a mechanical travel motor setup. The EX400LCH variant added a long carriage (LC) undercarriage and heavy-duty boom and arm configurations, making it ideal for rock work and deep trenching. The “H” designation typically refers to heavy-duty applications, with reinforced structures and higher breakout forces.
Key Specifications and Performance Metrics
- Operating weight: 40,000–45,000 kg
- Engine power: 290–300 hp
- Bucket capacity: 1.8–2.5 m³
- Dig depth: 7.5–8.2 meters
- Reach at ground level: 11.5–12 meters
- Hydraulic flow: 2 x 280 L/min
Global Demand and Export Trends
Hitachi excavators have long been favored in Asia, the Middle East, and Africa due to their durability and ease of maintenance. The EX400 series, in particular, saw strong export volumes from Japan and North America to Pakistan, India, and the Gulf states. Many units were refurbished and resold through independent dealers or equipment brokers.
In recent years, demand for used EX400LCH and EX400-1 units has increased among contractors seeking affordable alternatives to newer Tier 4 machines. These older models lack emissions control systems, making them easier to maintain in regions without strict environmental regulations.
Inspection Tips and Purchase Recommendations
Before purchasing a used EX400LCH or EX400-1:
- Check for undercarriage wear, especially track links, rollers, and sprockets
- Inspect boom and arm welds for fatigue or cracks
- Test hydraulic pressure and cycle times under load
- Verify engine compression and cooling system integrity
- Request photos of the cab, gauges, and control layout
Hitachi’s Excavator Legacy
Founded in 1910, Hitachi entered the construction equipment market in the 1960s and quickly became a global leader in hydraulic excavators. The EX series was a turning point, introducing advanced hydraulics and modular design. By the mid-1990s, Hitachi had sold tens of thousands of EX-series machines worldwide, with the EX400 class becoming a staple in large-scale earthmoving fleets.
Today, Hitachi continues to innovate with its ZX series, but the EX400 remains a symbol of mechanical strength and field-tested reliability.
Conclusion
The Hitachi EX400LCH and EX400-1 are proven performers in the 40-ton class, offering rugged construction and straightforward maintenance. For contractors seeking a dependable excavator without the complexity of modern electronics, these models remain a smart choice. With proper inspection and sourcing, they can deliver years of productive service in demanding environments.
