Steel and Spirit: Seventeen Years — The Enduring Legacy and Renewal of the ZG3225LC-9C Excavator

In the engine-roaring workshop of Changlin, a ZG3210-9C, a 21-ton excavator, stands quietly. Its body bears the marks of time, yet it still bursts with formidable power. As the first excavator model developed by Changlin Company, it has undergone 17 years of continuous improvement and optimization. It not only laid the technical foundation for Changlin's medium-sized excavators but also gave birth to the ZG3225LC-9C, a mainstay model in overseas markets. Its story is a legend of perseverance, innovation, and legacy. 

Genesis: Pioneering from Scratch   

In June 2008, to broaden its construction machinery product line, Changlin Company established Project 086, tasked with developing a medium-sized excavator suited to the Chinese market. Constrained by joint venture partnerships, Changlin's independent R&D in excavators was still nascent, despite rapid industry growth domestically. Facing a situation with "no foundation, no data, and no supply chain," the original Project 086 team, led by then-department head Yin Penglong, embarked on countless technical surveys, tackled key suppliers for core components, and persevered through sheer hard work and dedication. They overcame one technical challenge after another, finally seeing success. The launch of the ZG3210-9C not only filled the gap in the company's 21-ton and 22.5-ton product range but also marked a crucial step in Changlin's independent innovation within the excavator field.

Evolution: Relentless Refinement Over 17 Years  

Over seventeen years, the ZG3225LC-9C underwent countless optimizations and upgrades.

  Powertrain: It transitioned from initial reliance on foreign engines to domestic ones, and now to highly efficient domestic engines. Through power matching optimizations and multiple fuel consumption reduction projects, its power performance improved significantly, alongside notable gains in fuel economy.

  Hydraulic System: Keeping pace with localization trends, it shifted from a fully imported hydraulic system to a combined domestic and international solution. Optimizations in main pump power control and adjustments to the main valve's flow distribution logic increased overall operational efficiency by over 20% compared to the initial version. Coordination for compound actions like leveling and truck loading greatly improved, offering more precise and smooth operation.

  Structure & Comfort:   The use of high-strength steel in key areas extended the machine's lifespan beyond 10,000 hours. Operator comfort was enhanced through cabin interior and armrest upgrades, a larger 8-inch external display replacing the 6-inch embedded one, and redesigned, optimized AC air ducts—breathing modern life into this "veteran." "It's like an old comrade-in-arms; every improvement makes it stronger," remarked a veteran engineer involved in its development.

Endurance: A Market-Proven "Evergreen"   

Despite newer models constantly emerging, the ZG3225LC-9C remains a sales leader, thanks to its high reliability, low maintenance costs, and strong adaptability, finding widespread use in real estate, infrastructure, and water conservancy. A veteran operator with 20 years of experience said, "Other machines might be fancier, but this 'old buddy' never lets you down at critical moments."

Recently, this model has become a new favorite in overseas markets. Changlin Company, prioritizing technical service and focusing on customer value-add, fully promoted a Semi-Knock Down (SKD) sales model from a cost perspective. Through a "Customer-R&D-Production" collaborative triangle mechanism, they advanced a new sales model focused on cultivating "Key Overseas Accounts." In 2024, the ZG3225LC-9C achieved sales of 130 units in the Middle East market and successfully entered the Belarus market in the second half of 2025, becoming a preferred choice for local customers.

Legacy: The Soul of the Old Guard Meets New Blood  

Today, on the ZG3225LC-9C production line, young engineers use digital tools to continuously refine its design. Beneath the weathered steel shell lies core technology that stands the test of time; within the new control systems flows the same unwavering craftsmanship. This excavator tells its own story: true classics aren't rendered obsolete by time; they only grow more distinguished through(inheritance).

From "Changlin's First" to "Market Mainstay," the story of the ZG3225LC-9C is far from over. It carries the wisdom of a generation of engineers and will continue its legend in the hands of the new generation. Perhaps one day it will be replaced by more advanced models, but the spirit of creating from nothing and pursuing relentless refinement will forever be etched onto the monument of Changlin manufacturing.