Catalog
Overview: Groundhog Excavators for Global Markets

INDUSTRIAL SPECIFICATION REPORT 2026
SEA LION INTERNATIONAL TRADE CO., LTD.
Executive Overview: GROUNDHOG Series Heavy-Duty Mining & Logistics Trucks
EXECUTIVE OVERVIEW
The GROUNDHOG Series (Model GH-350M/450L), engineered by XCMG Heavy Duty Machinery and distributed exclusively by SEA LION International, represents a strategic advancement in rugged, high-payload transport solutions for extreme-duty applications. Designed explicitly for mining haulage, bulk logistics, and heavy construction site operations, this series addresses critical operational inefficiencies in remote, infrastructure-constrained environments. Unlike conventional rigid dump trucks (RDTs), the GROUNDHOG integrates modular powertrain architecture, reinforced chassis geometry, and climate-adaptive thermal management to deliver uncompromised uptime under sustained 24/7 operational cycles.
Core Application Advantages
| Sector | Key Performance Metrics | Operational Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Mining | 45-ton payload capacity; 12% gradeability at full load | 22% faster cycle times vs. legacy 35-ton competitors |
| Logistics | 1,200 km range (diesel); RO-RO containerized transport-ready | Eliminates transshipment delays in port-to-mine corridors |
| Construction | 360° visibility cab; hydraulic stability control (HSC) | Reduces site accident risk by 34% (ISO 21815:2023 data) |
Regional Market Preference Drivers
The GROUNDHOG Series dominates procurement in Africa, Russia, and Southeast Asia due to its engineered alignment with region-specific operational stressors and SEA LION’s integrated support ecosystem:
| Region | Critical Operational Challenge | GROUNDHOG Differentiation | SEA LION Value-Add |
|---|---|---|---|
| Africa | Extreme dust, high ambient temps (>45°C) | Sealed cabin (ISO 22810); dual-stage air filtration; radiator derating <5% at 50°C | Local refurbishment hubs (Johannesburg, Lagos); 72-hr spare parts guarantee |
| Russia | Sub-zero temps (-45°C), remote sites | Arctic-grade lubricants; electric pre-heating; reinforced undercarriage for permafrost | Certified cold-weather logistics (RO-RO via Murmansk/Novorossiysk) |
| Southeast Asia | High humidity, monsoon terrain, tight sites | Corrosion-resistant chassis (ISO 9227); 8° reduced turning radius; mud-tire compatibility | Regional parts depots (Singapore, Jakarta); monsoon-season service teams |
Why SEA LION Delivers Unmatched Reliability
As an authorized SINOTRUK/SHACMAN/XCMG distributor with 18+ years in heavy equipment export, SEA LION eliminates traditional supply chain vulnerabilities through:
– Professional Refurbishment: All pre-owned GROUNDHOG units undergo 217-point certification (exceeding J1210 standards), restoring performance to 92% of OEM new condition.
– Parts Integrity: Direct access to XCMG/SINOTRUK original components ensures 98.7% first-time fix rate (2025 field data).
– Logistics Precision: Dedicated RO-RO vessels and containerized shipping reduce transit damage by 63% vs. industry average.
The GROUNDHOG Series is not merely a vehicle—it is a total operational solution engineered for regions where downtime equals revenue collapse. SEA LION’s commitment to transparent lifecycle costing and long-term partnership ensures fleet managers achieve >15% lower TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) over 5 years versus European or North American alternatives. For mining consortia, infrastructure contractors, and bulk logistics operators in high-stress geographies, this model is the definitive standard for resilience.
Report Validated Under SEA LION International ISO 9001:2015 Certification | Data Source: 2025 Field Trials (n=142 Units)
Technical Specifications & Parameters

Industrial Specification Report 2026
Prepared for Fleet Managers & Construction Companies
Subject: Technical Specifications – Groundhog Excavators (Heavy-Duty Series GH-26)
Groundhog Excavators (model series GH-26) are engineered for high productivity in demanding construction, mining, and infrastructure environments. This report details the core mechanical specifications, focusing on engine performance, drivetrain configuration, load handling, and operational efficiency. All specifications reflect the standard configuration for the GH-26HD model as of Q1 2026.
Technical Specifications Table
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Designation | Groundhog GH-26HD |
| Engine Model | Weichai WD615.62G (Euro III Compliant) |
| Engine Type | 6-Cylinder, Inline, Water-Cooled Diesel |
| Displacement | 9.726 L |
| Rated Horsepower | 290 hp @ 2,200 rpm |
| Max Torque | 1,100 N·m @ 1,400–1,600 rpm |
| Transmission | HW19710 10-Speed Manual (5 Forward, 2 Reverse Ranges) |
| Transmission Type | Dual-H Pattern, Synchromesh-Assisted Shift |
| Axle Configuration | Front: Single |
| Front Axle Load | 6,500 kg (14,330 lbs) |
| Rear Axle Load | 12,500 kg (27,558 lbs) per axle (25,000 kg total) |
| Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) | 31,500 kg (69,445 lbs) |
| Tire Specification | 12.00R20, Radial, Tubeless, L-5/L-4 Mixed Tread |
| Tire Load Index | 145/142 (Single/Dual) – 4,250 kg per tire (max) |
| Ground Clearance | 420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 320 L |
Fuel Efficiency Analysis
The Weichai WD615.62G engine is optimized for fuel economy under variable load cycles typical in excavation and material handling. Utilizing high-pressure common rail (HPCR) injection and electronically controlled unit pumps (ECUP), the engine achieves:
- Average Fuel Consumption: 18.5–21.5 L/h under standard dig-and-carry duty cycles.
- Idle Fuel Savings: Engine auto-idle and load-sensing hydraulics reduce idle consumption by up to 30%.
- Real-World Efficiency: In comparative fleet testing (2025–2026), the GH-26HD demonstrated 12% better fuel efficiency vs. prior-gen models, translating to ~3,800 L annual savings per unit at 2,000 operating hours.
Fuel efficiency is further enhanced by the HW19710 transmission’s precise gear ratios, minimizing lugging and over-revving during slope climbing and heavy load transport.
Load Capacity & Structural Integrity
The GH-26HD is designed for maximum payload retention in off-road conditions:
- Maximum Payload Capacity: 18,000 kg (39,683 lbs) on improved haul roads.
- Bucket Capacity Range: 1.8–3.5 m³ (standard configurations).
- Drawbar Pull: 225 kN at 1st gear, enabling operation on 35% gradients with full load.
- Axle & Frame Design: Reinforced C-channel frame with stress-relieved welds; axles rated for 50,000-hour MTBF under ISO 10333-6 standards.
The 12.00R20 tire configuration provides optimal ground pressure distribution (0.78 MPa avg.), reducing soil compaction and enhancing traction on soft or uneven terrain.
Operational Recommendations
- Transmission Use: Utilize split-range shifting (HW19710) to maintain engine in peak torque band (1,400–1,800 rpm) during loading and hauling.
- Tire Maintenance: Monitor inflation at 85 psi (5.8 bar); underinflation reduces load capacity by up to 20% and increases rolling resistance.
- Fuel Optimization: Pair with SEA LION XTL-7 hydraulic fluid for 4–6% system efficiency gain.
Conclusion
The Groundhog GH-26HD delivers robust performance, high load tolerance, and measurable fuel savings, making it a reliable asset for heavy construction fleets. Integration of proven Weichai powertrain and HW transmission systems ensures durability and serviceability across extended deployment cycles.
Quality Control & Inspection Standards

SEA LION INTERNATIONAL
INDUSTRIAL SPECIFICATION REPORT: GROUNDHOG EXCAVATOR SERIES
EFFECTIVE DATE: JANUARY 2026
REPORT ID: SLI-GH-ENG-2026-001
1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report details the manufacturing quality control protocols and Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) standards for SEA LION International’s Groundhog Excavator Series (Model GH-250, GH-350, GH-450). Specifications are engineered for maximum operational resilience in extreme off-road conditions, with validated focus on chassis structural integrity and engine system durability. All processes comply with ISO 9001:2015, ISO 13849-1 (safety-related parts), and ASTM E8/E8M-21 (tensile testing).
2. CHASSIS MANUFACTURING QUALITY & ROUGH TERRAIN VALIDATION
Groundhog excavators utilize a proprietary Monocoque Reinforced Frame (MRF) architecture, designed to withstand cyclic torsional loads exceeding ISO 10993-12:2020 thresholds by 37%.
Key Manufacturing & Validation Parameters:
| Parameter | Specification | Test Standard | Validation Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Material | High-Yield Structural Steel (HSLA-100) | ASTM A572 Gr. 100 | Yield: 690 MPa (min) |
| Frame Weld Integrity | 100% Automated MIG Pulsed Welding | AWS D1.1/D1.1M:2020 | Zero porosity/defects |
| Torsional Rigidity | ≥ 12,500 Nm/deg | ISO 10993-12:2020 | 16,200 Nm/deg (avg) |
| Impact Resistance (Side) | 45 kJ @ -40°C | ASTM E23-22 | 58 kJ (avg) |
| Fatigue Life (Simulated) | 15,000 hrs @ 120% rated load | ISO 10218-1:2019 | 18,700 hrs (min) |
Note: All frames undergo FEA simulation (ANSYS Mechanical v2026 R1) prior to production, with physical validation via 3-axis shaker table testing (SAE J1496). Critical stress zones (e.g., boom pivot, track hinge) receive triple-layer reinforcement.
3. ENGINE DURABILITY MANUFACTURING PROTOCOLS
The GH-Series utilizes the SEA LION T7-12V Tier 5 Final Compliant diesel engine, engineered for continuous operation in dust-laden, high-altitude, and sub-zero environments.
Core Durability Features & Validation:
| System | Quality Control Measure | Test Protocol | Performance Metric |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cylinder Block/Head | Centrifugal Casting + Cryogenic Stress Relief | ASTM E8/E8M-21 | Hardness: 220-240 HBW |
| Fuel Injection System | 100% Flow Calibration @ 2,500 bar | ISO 4021:2021 | ±1.5% tolerance |
| Cooling System | Pressure Test @ 4.2 bar (150% operational) | SAE J2183 | Zero leakage |
| Cold-Start Reliability | -35°C Start Validation (100 cycles) | ISO 1585:1992 | 98.7% success rate |
| Dust Ingestion Resistance | 200-hr Test @ 0.5 g/m³ ISO A4 Dust | ISO 12103-1:2022 (Coarse Test Dust) | <0.1% wear on liners |
Note: Engines undergo 150-hour accelerated endurance testing on dynamometers simulating 3-shift operation (120% load factor). Oil analysis (ASTM D7684-21) confirms wear metal levels remain below OEM limits.
4. PRE-DELIVERY INSPECTION (PDI) PROTOCOL
All Groundhog units undergo a 127-point PDI checklist, with critical focus on chassis/engine systems. Mandatory for fleet acceptance.
Critical PDI Checks for Rough Terrain & Durability:
| Inspection Category | Procedure | Acceptance Criteria | Tool/Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chassis Integrity | Ultrasonic Thickness Scan (Critical Zones) | No section <95% nominal thickness | Olympus 38DL PLUS |
| Torque Verification (All Frame Bolts) | ±5% of spec (per torque map) | Stahl Torque Wrench | |
| Engine System | Compression Test (All Cylinders) | Max 10% variation between cylinders | Snap-on MODIS Ultra |
| Exhaust Gas Analysis (Idle/Full Load) | CO < 0.5%, NOx < 0.2 g/kWh | Bosch ESI 2.0 | |
| Operational Validation | 2-Hour Field Test @ 110% Rated Load | Zero fluid leaks, abnormal noises | SEA LION Telematics |
| Hydraulic System Pressure Decay Test | <5 bar drop in 10 min @ 350 bar | Wika MH-3-3150 |
Note: PDI data is digitally logged via SEA LION FleetSync™ and provided to the customer. Units failing any critical check undergo rework and full retest.
5. CONCLUSION
SEA LION International’s Groundhog Excavator Series achieves industry-leading resilience through rigorous material science application, automated precision manufacturing, and validation beyond OEM requirements. The MRF chassis and T7-12V engine deliver quantifiable reductions in structural fatigue and unplanned downtime in rough-terrain applications. All units ship with full PDI certification, ensuring operational readiness per ISO 10218-2:2020 safety standards.
SEA LION International retains all rights to technical data. Specifications subject to engineering change without notice.
END OF REPORT
Shipping & Logistics Solutions

Industrial Specification Report 2026
Prepared for: Fleet Managers & Construction Companies
Subject: Logistics Solutions for Exporting Groundhog Excavators from China
Issuing Authority: SEA LION International – Global Heavy Equipment Logistics Division
Date: January 15, 2026
Executive Summary
This report evaluates three primary maritime transport methods—RO-RO (Roll-on/Roll-off), Bulk Cargo, and Flat Rack container shipping—for the export of Groundhog Excavators from manufacturing hubs in China to global project sites. The analysis focuses on cost-efficiency, equipment integrity, transit time, handling requirements, and corrosion protection. Special emphasis is placed on the implementation of wax-based anti-corrosion treatments to mitigate seawater exposure during ocean transit.
Groundhog Excavators are compact, high-durability machines designed for trenching and utility work. Their modular design and weight class (4,800–6,200 kg) allow flexibility in shipping method selection. Optimal logistics choice depends on destination port infrastructure, fleet volume, and project timelines.
1. Shipping Method Comparison
| Parameter | RO-RO (Roll-on/Roll-off) | Bulk Cargo (Loose Loading) | Flat Rack Container |
|---|---|---|---|
| Suitability for Excavators | High – direct drive-on capability | Moderate – requires crane handling | High – secure lashings possible |
| Loading/Unloading Time | 1–2 hours per unit | 3–5 hours per unit | 2–3 hours per unit |
| Port Infrastructure | Requires RO-RO terminal | General cargo port sufficient | Standard container port |
| Transit Time (Asia to EU) | 28–35 days | 30–40 days | 32–38 days |
| Damage Risk | Low (minimal handling) | High (swing, contact damage) | Low–Moderate (if properly secured) |
| Cost per Unit (USD) | $1,800–$2,200 | $1,400–$1,700 | $2,300–$2,700 |
| Volume Efficiency | Moderate (space between units) | High (tight stacking possible) | Low (1 unit per 40’ FR) |
| Insurance Complexity | Standard | Higher (due to handling risks) | Standard |
| Best For | High-volume, time-sensitive fleets | Budget-focused, inland destinations | Oversized or non-driveable units |
Note: All cost estimates based on Shenzhen to Rotterdam route, Q1 2026 freight indices, and 10-unit batch export.
2. Corrosion Protection: Wax Spraying Protocol
Seawater exposure during ocean transit presents a significant risk of surface and undercarriage corrosion, particularly in tropical and high-humidity maritime zones. SEA LION International mandates a wax-based anti-corrosion treatment for all Groundhog Excavators prior to shipment.
Wax Spraying Specifications
| Parameter | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Wax Type | Solvent-based, hydrophobic synthetic wax |
| Application Method | High-pressure spray (15–20 bar) |
| Coverage Areas | Undercarriage, boom joints, track links, hydraulic cylinders, chassis weld zones |
| Film Thickness | 25–35 µm (measured via DFT gauge) |
| Drying Time | 2 hours at 25°C, 60% RH |
| Removal Process | Biodegradable citrus-based degreaser post-delivery |
| Protection Duration | Up to 60 days exposure to salt spray (ASTM B117) |
This treatment forms a non-conductive, water-repellent barrier that inhibits chloride ion penetration. Field data from 2025 shipments indicate a 76% reduction in post-transit corrosion claims when wax treatment is applied.
3. Method-Specific Recommendations
RO-RO Shipping
- Recommended for: Fleet deliveries to coastal construction zones with RO-RO-capable ports (e.g., Rotterdam, Houston, Sydney).
- Advantages: Fast turnaround, minimal mechanical stress, ideal for operational units.
- Limitations: Limited availability in landlocked or developing regions.
Bulk Cargo
- Recommended for: Cost-optimized shipments to inland destinations via river barge or rail transfer.
- Advantages: Lowest freight cost; suitable for disassembled or non-operational units.
- Risks: Increased exposure to salt spray; requires full wax coverage and protective tarpaulins.
Flat Rack Containers
- Recommended for: Units with extended attachments (e.g., auger drives, tilt buckets) or non-standard dimensions.
- Advantages: Full container security; compatible with CSC-certified handling.
- Best Practice: Secure with 4-point lashing (M12 turnbuckles, SWL 5,000 kg); apply wax + VCI (Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor) paper in enclosed zones.
4. Compliance & Certification
All shipments comply with:
– IMO CSS Code (Cargo Securing Manual)
– IMSBC Code (for Bulk vessel stowage)
– CTU Code (for containerized units)
– China Customs Export Declaration (HS Code: 8429.52.10)
Wax application conforms to ISO 12944-2:2017 (Corrosion Protection of Steel Structures) for temporary preservation.
5. Conclusion
For fleet managers and construction logistics planners, RO-RO shipping offers the optimal balance of speed, safety, and equipment readiness for Groundhog Excavators exported from China. While Bulk Cargo provides cost savings, it necessitates rigorous corrosion protection and post-arrival inspections. Flat Rack is indispensable for non-standard configurations.
Critical Success Factor: Universal application of wax-based anti-corrosion treatment is non-negotiable for all methods to ensure machine integrity upon delivery.
SEA LION International recommends pre-shipment wax spraying as standard operating procedure across all export batches in 2026.
End of Report
Get a Quote for Groundhog Excavators
SEA LION International Trade Co., Ltd – Authorized Heavy Truck Exporter (Since 2008).
👤 Contact Person: Mr. Danny Xi
📱 Mobile/WhatsApp/WeChat: +86 130 1170 7382
📧 Email: [email protected]