The Takeuchi TB 370 W is a compact wheeled excavator specifically developed for confined construction sites. With an operating weight of 3.7 tons and variable track width, the model positions itself between classic mini excavators and larger wheeled machines. The Japanese manufacturer Takeuchi has designed the concept for mobility and flexibility — two factors that determine downtime and profitability in urban excavation.
Variable track width for tight passages
The central feature of the TB 370 W is the hydraulically adjustable track width. It can be extended from 1.5 meters to 1.9 meters. In transport position, the machine fits through standard gates and narrow access roads. On the construction site, the widened track provides more stability during excavation work. The adjustment is made from the cabin without the driver having to get out. For utility line construction in city centers or property entrances, this means: less logistics effort, more effective working time.
The transport width of 1.5 meters allows access roads that would exclude tracked excavators of comparable performance. A conventional 3.5-ton tracked excavator is at least 1.7 meters wide. The advantage: around 20 centimeters that can determine whether a project is feasible or not.
Wheeled chassis instead of tracks: advantages and disadvantages
Takeuchi opted for four wheels instead of a tracked chassis on the TB 370 W. This provides higher speed on paved surfaces: up to 40 km/h is possible without a low loader. All-wheel steering enables turning radii under 3 meters. This saves maneuvering time on tight construction sites.
The disadvantage shows on soft ground. Ground pressure is higher than with tracked machines, and grip on wet clay or sandy soils is limited. For classic earthworks on undeveloped terrain, the tracked excavator remains the first choice. The TB 370 W, on the other hand, is designed for asphalt or gravel surfaces — construction sites with existing infrastructure.
Digging depth and hydraulic power in practice
With a maximum digging depth of 3.2 meters, the TB 370 W covers typical utility line construction depths. For comparison: water pipes usually lie between 1.5 and 2 meters, sewage pipes up to 2.5 meters. This is sufficient for standard municipal excavation tasks. For deeper excavation, larger machines or a long-reach arm are required.
The break-out force is 30 kN at the bucket stick. This corresponds to approximately 3 tons of pulling force — sufficient for compacted soils of classes 4 to 5. On rocky ground or heavily rooted areas, the machine reaches its limits. Here, a hydraulic breaker as an attachment would be required.
Quick coupler for flexible tool changes
Takeuchi supplies the TB 370 W with a quick coupler as standard. Buckets, grippers, or ditch cleanup buckets can be changed without tools. The change takes less than a minute. This pays off on construction sites where multiple switches between excavation, compaction, and backfilling occur. A quick coupler as a retrofit costs between 1,500 and 2,500 euros separately — here it comes from the factory.
Compact dimensions and zero-tail design
The TB 370 W operates on the zero-tail principle. The rear does not rotate beyond the machine width. When working along building walls or street edges, the machine can be positioned directly against the wall without collision risk. The superstructure rotates within the contour of the wheels. This is standard in utility line construction, but not self-evident on all wheeled machines.
The total length is 4.8 meters, the height is 2.5 meters. This allows the machine to fit under typical gate openings and in standard garages. For transport on a trailer, it remains under 3.5 tons permissible total weight — a Category B driver's license with trailer is sufficient.
Drive and fuel consumption
The engine is a Yanmar diesel with 2.2 liters displacement and 27 kW (37 PS). The manufacturer states fuel consumption of 3.5 liters per operating hour — at medium load. In practice, values are often higher: with continuous excavation work and high hydraulic utilization, 4 to 5 liters is realistic. A comparable tracked excavator has similar values but usually lacks a street-capable chassis. The TB 370 W must move the additional weight of the wheel suspension and steering with the same engine.
The machine complies with EU Stage V emissions standards. An SCR catalyst with AdBlue injection and a diesel particulate filter are installed. The AdBlue tank holds 10 liters, sufficient for approximately 100 operating hours.
Cabin and operating concept
The cabin accommodates one driver and meets ROPS and FOPS standards for rollover protection and protection against falling objects. Glazing is all around, with unrestricted visibility to the rear and sides. A backup camera is standard. Operation is via two joysticks, with the layout conforming to ISO standards — anyone familiar with other excavators will find their way immediately.
Air conditioning, radio, and an adjustable seat are included. The control panel is clear and uncluttered, without touchscreens or digital frills. For rental companies, this is an advantage: less electronics means less repair risk. Training new operators takes less than an hour.
Applications and target groups
The TB 370 W is aimed at excavation contractors working in urban areas. Typical tasks: utility line installation, house connections, small foundation work, paving. The model is also interesting for rental companies — the combination of compactness and road capability covers a broad customer spectrum.
The machine is less suitable for large earthmoving or uncompacted terrain. Those mainly excavating foundation pits or working on varying soils should stick with the classic tracked excavator. The TB 370 W is not an all-rounder but a specialist for urban construction sites with good subsoil.
Availability and distribution in Germany
In Germany, Takeuchi has been imported by Wilhelm Schäfer for 40 years. The company from Twist handles distribution and the service network. Details on the 40-year import partnership show that spare parts availability and workshop network are well developed. An important factor for operators: an excavator waiting three days for a spare part costs money.
The TB 370 W is available ex-stock. Takeuchi quotes prices on request — typical for this segment. Comparable wheeled compact excavators range from 45,000 to 60,000 euros net, depending on equipment. Used models are still rare, as the TB 370 W has only recently come to market. Further technical details on the TB 370 W with variable track width can be found in the product documentation.
Conclusion: niche solution with clear profile
The Takeuchi TB 370 W is not a machine for every application. It is built for tight construction sites, paved surfaces, and applications where mobility counts. If you have these requirements, you get a well-thought-out concept: variable track width, road capability, compact dimensions. Those needing all-around capabilities are better served with a tracked excavator. This doesn't make the TB 370 W worse — just more specialized. And in its niche, it's a sensible solution.
