Meet Hitachi’s smallest excavator, the ZX17U-5N

Hitachi is a world leader in the excavator market, and the new Hitachi ZX17U-5N is a compact excavator built for performance and durability. With an operating weight of 3,700 lbs, the excavator has a maximum digging reach of almost 13 feet and a maximum digging depth of just over 7 feet. Combining maneuverability, hydraulic power, and easy-access maintenance, the Hitachi ZX17U-5N is a small excavator that’ll make a big splash in the mini-model market.

The Hitachi ZX17U-5N may look like a toy, but its nimble frame packs a lot of power. It has advanced hydraulics and full hydraulic pilot levers for the front attachment, boom, swing travel, and blade. The boom is built to last—its hoses are routed to protect it from damage, and HN bushing is applied on all the excavator’s front attachment joints for better grease retention.

The small but mighty Hitachi ZX17U-5N makes the most of its compact design, with zero tail swing, variable track width, and adjustable crawlers and blades. It’s also built to last: the boom cylinder guard protects the boom, and hose protectors shield the boom arm’s hydraulic hoses. The standard auxiliary hydraulic lines are also plumbed to the end of the boom to simplify attachment use. 

When it comes time to perform routine maintenance, the wide-open covers of the Hitachi ZX17U-5N make it easier to get into tight areas, and the excavator’s parallel-arranged cooling package makes the excavator easy to clean. 

Working within Hitachis’s new excavator also offers a lot in the way of user comfort, with a 3-pillar canopy to provide shade, an ergonomic seat design, an easy-to-read LCD for operational data, and a drink holder to help operators stay hydrated. 

Specifications:

  • Model: ZX17U-5N
  • Engine rated power: 14.7HP (10.8kW)
  • Operating weight: 3,790lbs (1,720kg)
  • Maximum digging reach: 12ft 6in (3.81m)
  • Maximum digging depth: 7ft 2in (2.19m)

Hitachi is a leading construction equipment manufacturer based in Tokyo. It manufactures heavy machinery, including excavators, wheel loaders, compactors, and mining machinery.

For all the latest gear, machinery, and construction news, subscribe to our weekly newsletter and follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn!

Share Your Thoughts

ALICE Technologies’ optioneering is shaping the future of building

June 5, 2025

ALICE Technologies uses AI to generate multiple construction scenarios, shorten project timelines, and cut labor costs, revolutionizing how projects are built.

Read more

Ontario’s $955M skills development fund aims to protect trades jobs

June 5, 2025

Ontario expands Skills Development Fund by $955M to protect trades workers from U.S. tariff pressures. Learn what it means for employers.

Read more

Why investing in a water filter is a smart idea for every AEC professional (+ the best options to consider for job sites and homes)

June 4, 2025

Investing in a drinking water or whole-house water filtration system prevents the ingestion of harmful substances like chlorine, lead, and bacteria.

Read more

7 high-protein sandwich recipes for busy days at work

June 4, 2025

Increase your protein intake with these 7 high-protein sandwich recipes including the grilled chicken pesto or avocado and smoked salmon.

Read more