Used Volvo 290Excavator

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The Volvo EC290 (and its upgraded variant EC290B) is a large crawler excavator in the 29-ton class, produced by Volvo Construction Equipment. It was one of Volvo's most popular mid-to-large excavators, widely used in construction, mining, and infrastructure projects. It was eventually succeeded by the EC300D.

📋 Basic Overview

Specification	Details
Manufacturer	Volvo Construction Equipment
Model	EC290 / EC290B / EC290BLC (Long Carriage)
Class	25–30 ton (Large Excavator)
Production Period	~2003–2012 (EC290B)
Successor	Volvo EC300D
Primary Markets	Europe, North America, Asia, Middle East

& Engine & Powertrain

Specification	EC290B
Engine Model	Volvo D7E
Type	6-cylinder, turbocharged, intercooled diesel
Displacement	7.2 liters
Rated Power	185 hp (138 kW) @ 2,000 rpm
Max Torque	~680 Nm @ 1,400 rpm
Emissions	EU Stage IIIA / EPA Tier 3 (depending on region)
Fuel Tank Capacity	~400 liters

The D7E engine is known for its durability, fuel efficiency, and low emissions, making it one of the best powerplants in its class.

📐 Dimensions & Weight

Specification	EC290B	EC290BLC (Long Carriage)
Operating Weight	28,500 – 29,700 kg	~30,500 kg
Transport Length	9,950 mm	11,140 mm
Transport Width	3,190 mm	3,190 mm
Transport Height	3,190 mm	3,190 mm
Track Width	600 mm (triple grouser)	600 mm
Ground Pressure	~47 kPa	~49 kPa

🏗️ Performance Specifications

Specification	EC290B	EC290BLC
Bucket Capacity (Std)	0.85 – 1.40 m³	0.85 – 1.10 m³
Max Digging Depth	7,030 mm	8,500 mm ⬆️
Max Reach (Ground Level)	9,550 mm	11,000 mm ⬆️
Max Dump Height	6,980 mm	8,300 mm
Max Digging Reach (at ground)	9,550 mm	11,000 mm
Breakout Force	158 kN	145 kN
Swing Speed	8.2 rpm	7.5 rpm
Travel Speed	4.5 km/h	4.2 km/h
Gradeability	70% (35°)	70%

🔑 The EC290BLC (Long Carriage) version was specifically designed for deep digging applications like pipeline trenching, sewer work, and deep foundation excavation.

🔧 Key Features & Technology

1. 🦾 Lift Arm Linkage (LAL) — Volvo's Signature System

Volvo's patented LAL system provides:
- ✅ Up to 30% more breakout force
- ✅ Up to 15% more lifting capacity
- ✅ Better bucket filling
This gives the EC290 a significant advantage over competitors with conventional linkage designs.

2. 📊 ECOS (Electronic Control Operating System)

Real-time monitoring of:
- Fuel consumption
- Engine performance
- Hydraulic pressure
- Working hours & maintenance intervals
Helps operators optimize productivity and reduce operating costs.

3. 🪑 Comfortable Operator Cab

Feature	Details
Seat	Air-suspended, fully adjustable
Climate Control	Automatic A/C with heater
Noise Level	~72 dB(A) — very quiet for its class
Visibility	Excellent all-round visibility
Controls	Ergonomic joysticks with adjustable armrests
Display	LCD multi-function monitor

4. 🛢️ Efficient Hydraulic System

Load-Sensing (LS) hydraulics — delivers exactly the flow and pressure needed
Reduces fuel consumption by up to 15% compared to conventional systems
Smooth, precise control for fine work

5. 🖥️ Volvo Co-Pilot Integration

Compatible with machine control systems (GPS/GNSS)
Enables 2D/3D grading, depth control, and positioning
Increases accuracy and reduces rework

6. 🔩 Easy Maintenance

Ground-level service points
Large side panels for easy access to filters and components
Extended service intervals (500/1000/2000 hour checks)

🎯 Working Applications

Application	Suitability
🏗️ General Excavation	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🛣️ Road Construction	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🔧 Pipeline Laying (EC290BLC)	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🏢 Building Foundations	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
💥 Demolition	⭐⭐⭐⭐
⛰️ Quarrying & Mining	⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌳 Landscaping & Grading	⭐⭐⭐⭐
🔌 Utility Work	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (BLC)

🔄 Attachments Compatibility

The EC290 supports a wide range of hydraulic attachments:

Attachment	Use
🪣 Standard Bucket	General digging
🪨 Rock Bucket	Quarrying, hard ground
🔨 Hydraulic Hammer (Breaker)	Demolition, rock breaking
✂️ Hydraulic Shear	Demolition, scrap metal
🪓 Grapple	Log handling, scrap
🔩 Thumb	Pipe handling, precise gripping
🌀 Quick Coupler	Fast attachment change
🪝 Tiltrotator	Versatile 360° work

🆚 Comparison with Competitors (2000s Era)

Feature	Volvo EC290B	CAT 329D	Komatsu PC290	Hitachi ZX290
Power	185 hp	174 hp	186 hp	174 hp
Weight	29,000 kg	29,500 kg	28,900 kg	28,600 kg
Max Dig Depth	7,030 mm	7,170 mm	7,130 mm	6,980 mm
Breakout Force	158 kN	147 kN	152 kN	145 kN
LAL System	✅ Yes	❌ No	❌ No	❌ No
Fuel Efficiency	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐

🏆 The Lift Arm Linkage gives Volvo a clear edge in breakout force and digging performance.

📈 Pros & Cons Summary

✅ Pros	❌ Cons
Excellent breakout force (LAL system)	Older model — parts availability declining
Very fuel efficient	Not the most modern machine control integration
Comfortable, quiet cab	Heavier than some competitors
Reliable Volvo D7E engine	EC290BLC has slightly less breakout force
Strong resale value	Succeeded by EC300D (parts may shift)
Versatile attachment range

💰 Approximate Pricing (Used Market, 2024)

Condition	Price Range (USD)
High Hours (10,000+ hrs)	$45,000 – $65,000
Medium Hours (5,000–10,000 hrs)	$65,000 – $90,000
Low Hours (<5,000 hrs)	$90,000 – $120,000+
EC290BLC (Long Carriage)	+$10,000 – $15,000 premium

(Prices vary by region, condition, and configuration)

🏁 Conclusion

The Volvo EC290 / EC290B is a legendary workhorse in the 29-ton class. Its Lift Arm Linkage system, fuel-efficient D7E engine, and comfortable cab made it a favorite among operators and contractors worldwide. While it has been succeeded by the EC300D, the EC290 remains a highly capable and reliable machine on the used market — especially the EC290BLC for deep-dig applications.

🔑 Best for: Contractors needing strong breakout force, fuel efficiency, and operator comfort in a mid-to-large excavator package.

Would you like more details on any specific aspect — such as maintenance schedule, hydraulic flow rates, or comparison with the newer EC300D? 🚜

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Used Volvo 290Excavator

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Used Volvo 290Excavator

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We guarantee the quality of each machine and promise
to offer you the most favorable price.