It’s interesting to see how Eltec has designed the FBL277L B series – a compact/zero tail version of the bigger 317 model that we tested a couple of months ago in Southland. At 47 tonnes gassed up and with the head on, this is still a big machine but Eltec has made it more manoeuvrable while retaining excellent servicing access under the clamshell.
Seeing Iron Tester Tony Hill moving through the trees in this unit, you can see it is able to slip through the gaps in the trees with ease with the shorter boom and zero tail creating a very effective machine.
Steve Rist (Risty) and the Ocean View Logging crew have been harvesting in Omataroa Forest for over 20 years. There have been a few short stints away to let the age class catch up for perpetual harvest. With a wealth of experience, it’s clear why they are enjoying this machine.
The 8.9 litre Cummins L9 engine sits north/south beside and slightly behind the cab with access on both sides, while the fuel tank occupies the opposite corner behind the cab. The long Linde hydraulic pump stack runs north south too, up beside the cab but just across the walkway which is a good position, keeping it away from any engine heat.
Eltec has also utilised a new Linde main hydraulic block. The eight main valves are here along with the solenoid valves. This new design has allowed Eltec to reduce the number of hoses and connections, as well as to position the block higher, increasing the distance between the block and the rotation unit. A new linde pump set up on the B series machines now runs a fully dedicated 210 pump for attachments which allows for more multi functioning and all the pressure and flow you would ever need.
In a nod to fuel efficiency and speed, Eltec has introduced FRS or Flow Recovery System. Assisted by kinetic energy, this system allows faster boom and mast in-out cycles using less flow which allows better fluid distribution to the rest of the functions. The FRS is exclusive to this B series.
The windscreen is an impressive piece of work too - great to see unobstructed views out the front in a similar vein to last month’s issue with the 32mm polycarbonate going right across and floor to roof with no joints.
The cab sits on eight anti-vibration pads, significantly reducing vibrations felt by the operator. When the clamshell is open we can see some decent shields in place between the engine bay and the cab too.
The heated seat is going to be a bonus when you drag your wet arse inside after an out of cab mission in the rain, hail or snow.
At the full 10.2 metre reach the Eltec will lift 7.09 tonnes and has an impressive bare pin lifting capacity of 10.34 tonnes at 6.1 metres and 14.6 tonnes at 4.6 metres..
The boom just looks really staunch and when you see the manoeuvres being pulled on the felling face you see...
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