JCB 35Z Mini Excavator

The JCB 35Z Mini Excavator is a compact and versatile machine, but like any heavy equipment, it may encounter issues over time. Below is a list of common problems with potential causes and solutions for the JCB 35Z Mini Excavator.


1. Engine Starting Problems

Symptoms:

  • The engine cranks but doesn’t start.
  • Slow or no cranking at all.

Potential Causes:

  • Weak or discharged battery.
  • Faulty starter motor.
  • Blocked fuel filter or fuel lines.
  • Air in the fuel system.

Solutions:

  • Check and recharge or replace the battery if necessary.
  • Inspect and repair or replace the starter motor.
  • Clean or replace the fuel filter and ensure fuel lines are not clogged.
  • Bleed the fuel system to remove air pockets.

2. Hydraulic System Issues

Symptoms:

  • Slow or jerky hydraulic movements.
  • Loss of power in the boom, arm, or bucket.
  • Hydraulic oil overheating.

Potential Causes:

  • Low hydraulic oil levels.
  • Contaminated hydraulic oil.
  • Faulty hydraulic pump or valve.
  • Clogged filters or restricted lines.

Solutions:

  • Check and top up hydraulic oil to the recommended level.
  • Replace the hydraulic oil and filters if contaminated.
  • Inspect and repair or replace the hydraulic pump or valve as necessary.
  • Clean or replace clogged hydraulic lines.

3. Electrical System Malfunctions

Symptoms:

  • Lights, displays, or control systems not functioning.
  • Frequent blown fuses or tripped circuits.

Potential Causes:

  • Damaged or loose wiring.
  • Faulty alternator.
  • Malfunctioning sensors or control module.

Solutions:

  • Inspect and repair any damaged or loose wiring connections.
  • Test and replace the alternator if it’s not charging the battery properly.
  • Diagnose and replace faulty sensors or modules.

4. Track or Undercarriage Problems

Symptoms:

  • Tracks slipping or coming off.
  • Excessive wear on sprockets or rollers.
  • Noisy operation.

Potential Causes:

  • Improper track tension.
  • Worn or damaged track components.
  • Debris lodged in the undercarriage.

Solutions:

  • Adjust track tension to the manufacturer’s specification.
  • Replace worn sprockets, rollers, or tracks as needed.
  • Regularly clean the undercarriage to prevent debris buildup.

5. Overheating

Symptoms:

  • Engine temperature gauge showing high.
  • Warning lights or alarms for overheating.

Potential Causes:

  • Low coolant levels.
  • Blocked or dirty radiator.
  • Faulty thermostat or cooling fan.

Solutions:

  • Check and refill the coolant to the appropriate level.
  • Clean the radiator to remove dirt, dust, and debris.
  • Replace the thermostat or repair the cooling fan if malfunctioning.

6. Boom or Arm Drift

Symptoms:

  • Boom or arm slowly lowers or moves without input.

Potential Causes:

  • Worn hydraulic cylinders or seals.
  • Internal hydraulic leaks.

Solutions:

  • Inspect and replace worn seals or cylinders.
  • Diagnose and repair internal hydraulic leaks.

7. Excessive Fuel Consumption

Symptoms:

  • Frequent refueling required.
  • Black smoke from the exhaust.

Potential Causes:

  • Clogged air filter.
  • Faulty fuel injectors.
  • Incorrect engine tuning.

Solutions:

  • Clean or replace the air filter.
  • Inspect and replace faulty fuel injectors.
  • Perform regular engine maintenance and tuning.

8. Control Lever Stiffness or Malfunction

Symptoms:

  • Difficulty in operating control levers.
  • Unresponsive controls.

Potential Causes:

  • Damaged control cables.
  • Hydraulic pressure issues.

Solutions:

  • Inspect and replace damaged control cables.
  • Check and adjust hydraulic pressure.

Preventative Maintenance Tips:

  • Perform regular inspections and servicing as per the JCB maintenance schedule.
  • Keep the excavator clean to prevent dirt and debris from causing wear and tear.
  • Use high-quality fuel, hydraulic oil, and spare parts.
  • Train operators on proper machine handling to reduce unnecessary strain.

By addressing these common issues proactively, you can maximize the efficiency and lifespan of your JCB 35Z Mini Excavator. For persistent problems, consult a professional technician- That’s us!

Spares & parts bibliography

For all spares and parts we recommend our sister company – HTS Spares

For all JCB excavator parts: JCB Style Excavator Spares | All products shown are quality replacement parts and are not genuine JCB products. 

Spoke to Jeremy at HTS Plant on Monday morning about a generator they had in stock agreed a deal, arrived onsite Tuesday lunchtime "excellent service" Hard to find likeminded honest genuine company’s these days HTS are spot on. Jeremy even took the time to phone making sure everything was ok.
Paul B, Developer in Asselby