Mini digger with maximum effect

ViO17 excels even in hard-to-reach places

Mini digger Yanmar ViO17 easily meets those qualifications. As a Zero Tail Swing, it can be used in the most awkward places.

Text Pieter de Mos    |    Image Yanmar

Operating weight 1795 kg (in canopy version); minimum width 950 mm; net engine power 10.1 kW with maximum torque of 52 Nm; Yanmar's well-known ViPPS hydraulic system with three main pumps and a total maximum flow rate of 48.4 l/min offers an optimum combination of speed, power, smoothness and balance. These are details that many machinists feast on.

Its Zero Tail Swing combined with its compact dimensions make it ideal for work in hard-to-reach areas. Neither the counterweight nor the front portion of the upper frame is wider than the tracks. The front section is designed so that it cannot overhang; this gives the ViO17 a very small turning radius. Thus, the machine's upper frame always swings within the width of the tracks, allowing the operator to concentrate on the job at hand without worrying about damage.

With its limited transport weight and practical design, the mini excavator is easy to transport on a trailer or small trailer.

Good to transport

Delivery to several work sites per day is no problem at all for the compact ViO17, which makes it attractive for rental as well. With its transport weight of less than 1.7 tons and practical design, the mini excavator is easy to transport on a trailer or small trailer. This can be done including about three buckets and other accessories/equipment pieces, as long as the total transport weight remains under 2 tons. For secure lashing, the large attachment points on the blade are easily accessible. And because of the minimum width across the tracks of 950 mm, private gardens over narrow paths are also easily accessible.

Stable variable undercarriage

The ViO17 comes standard with a variable undercarriage, which can be easily extended or retracted by operating a lever. In the workplace, its compactness does not detract from its stability, as the tracked undercarriage can be extended to as much as 1280 mm. The dozer blade is adapted accordingly: the hinged blade extensions are permanently attached to the blade. As a result, no tools are required to quickly change positions and there is no subsequent risk of losing those blade extensions. The optimal weight distribution also contributes to stability during digging and loading operations.

Looking at the ViO17's digging capabilities, we see figures befitting heavier machines.

High, deep and powerful

Looking at the ViO17's digging capacities, we see figures befitting heavier machines. For example, the maximum dumping height is 2630 mm and the maximum cutting height is even 3690 mm. Horizontally, the maximum digging range is 3810 mm. An interesting feature of this 1.7-ton machine is its considerable digging depth: with the blade lowered, the maximum is 2310 mm. In addition, the digging capacity on the arm is 8.5 kN and on the bucket even 15.2 kN. The travel speed is 2.1 or 4.3 km/h and the maximum angle of inclination is 30 degrees. To prevent damage while working, all cylinder tubes and rods on boom and arm are protected by floating sheet steel and the (hydraulic) hoses have wear-resistant sheaths.

Performance is provided by an in-house made 3TNV70-XBV diesel. This economical and robust engine complies with current EN standards. It has indirect injection, a water separator and a hydraulic oil gauge. The third hydraulic circuit line to the end of the arm delivers 30.8 liters per minute.

Neither the counterweight nor the front portion of the upper frame is wider than the tracks.

Working safely and pleasantly

Safety when working with and around the machine is a priority. The ViO17 features a ROPS/FOPS/TOPS roof, with wide and easy access on both sides. The controls are designed for that, with a well thought-out position of joysticks, armrests and travel levers with pedals. Separate pedals are provided for use of the power take-off auxiliary line and boom-offset. The suspension seat is comfortable and multi-adjustable. The halogen work light under the boom provides good visibility in morning and evening hours and in poorer weather conditions. The rear and side guards, panel under the seat and removable floor provide direct access to various maintenance points.

The maintenance frequency is normal for this type of machine: for engine oil change and filter replacement is 500 hours.Change of hydraulic oil is needed after about 1000 hours and for coolant after 2000 hours.