Kobelco SK35SR Mini excavators research

Overview

The Kobelco SK35SR-6 mini excavator promises three things; short-radius agility, quiet operation, and full-size performance. The 2024 build of the machine introduces several performance improvements and new features, compared to the SK35SR-5, for example. These include better fuel consumption, more operator cabin improvements, and an overall better, modern feel.

What's new

In closed cabin configuration, the new build mini excavator comes with ROPS and TOPS guard level 1 standards for greater operator safety.

Optional equipment

• Rear-view mirror,
• Rear under-mirror,
• ROPS/FOPS cab with air conditioning,
• 2-way piping (foot control),
• 300 mm rubber or steel shoes,
• Dozer blade,
• Boom cylinder cover,
• Radio (aux, USB Port & Bluetooth wireless system)

Efficiency & performance

With a wider working range, the 3-ton mini excavator has a 5.3 meter vertical reach, a 4.8 meter dumping height, and a 3-meter digging depth due to the longer boom-and-arm provided as a standard in its new build. Combined with 0 tail overhang (short tail-swing, a.k.a. short radius), the compact excavator can work indoors and in tight or limited spaces outdoors as well. At 2.5 meters high, the mini excavator can be transported to and from sites very easily, sometimes by loading it on an LCV (granted it can lift 3.7 tons as GVW), without the need to rent a low-bed truck.

When it comes to fuel economy vs actual digging power- the SK35SR-6 doesn’t come short in both of those categories. In terms of hydraulic power, the mini utilizes a three-pump system that delivers a flow of 38.4 l/min at a pressure of 23 MPa. This integrated pump flow system allows the machine to conserve power while still maintaining digging momentum even under heavy loads. While operating, the operator can use the S power mode to consume fuel 25% less compared to previous models. While idling, the one-touch deceleration feature will also reduce fuel intake while the machine is at a rest.

Interior

The newly designed rectangular cab is about 820 mm wide, with an optimized control layout for comfortable, easy operation. A greater window area further improves front visibility, a clear view is also provided at the rear. The seat is made of quality material that is water and spill proof, air-suspended, and it can slide further to ensure plenty of legroom.

The cabin features a wide-opening door and a right-hand tilting control console with a safety lever that rises high, making it easy for operators to enter and exit the cab. ​​The climate control system is located down and to the right of the seat, contrary to older models, keeping the rear view clear. As for the levers, the swing joystick (to the right) integrates precise proportional controls to easily operate the dozer blade.

The mini’s workspace includes several comfort features such as a coat hook, several air conditioning/heating vents, a work light, and a two-mode radio with USB, Bluetooth, and AUX connectivity. Notably, the front window opens and closes completely, and it’s equipped with gas damper cylinders for smooth and easy opening and closing.

Safety

The new standard ROPS/TOPS guard level 1 enclosed cabin ensures a more robust build, making it safe to operate in heavily wooded areas, protecting the front glass from being punctured by tree boughs or hard twigs. As for machine integrity, the boom, arm and swing bracket all have large cross-section segments for added attachment strength and durability, coupled with bolt-tightened, plate-type pins that firmly lock the boom and arm to prevent the boom top from opening laterally. The hydraulic piping is also housed inside the swing bracket, for added durability.

In comparison

Starting with the power plant, the SK35SR-6 comes with a 24.2 hp water cooled, 4-cycle, 3-cylinder, direct injection Yanmar 3TNV82A-B diesel engine, which has around 80 Nm torque on a 1.3 l engine, fueled by a 42 l fuel tank. Which is quite economical compared to the 1.6 l Yanmar 3TNV88 diesel engine fitted on the previous SK35SR-5, though it delivered 30.1 hp and around 100 Nm of torque. The real, tactile improvement, however, is in the hydraulic system- where the previous model had just a 38.4 l/min double pump compared to the new 58.6 l/min triple pump.

Verdict

For landscaping contractors looking to get a bang for their buck, the 2024 Kobelco SK35SR-6 mini excavator is a top choice. The new build offers the fuel economy, the agility, and the worry-free ease of operation needed for demanding jobs. It’s one investment that pays off in the future, in terms of cheap maintenance, and affordable OEM parts availability.

Our review process

Makana works with a select group of heavy industry experts who have 20+ years of experience operating heavy equipment both locally and globally to deliver tested, tried and true data for interested buyers. Our approach aims to convey unbiased, field-proof information across the board, with no intention of promoting our or our consignors’ stock of heavy machinery.