Construction Equipment Guide
470 Maryland Drive
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800-523-2200
Thu January 03, 2013 - National Edition
Komatsu America Corp. introduced its new line of D37-23 and D39-23 crawler dozers, developed using extensive customer input.
Komatsu further refined the dozer design to meet EPA Tier IV Interim regulations using smart engine technology while maintaining the same high horsepower. The new dozers have increased productivity, and new operator-specific features, all bundled in a compact 89 or 105 hp (66 or 78 kW) package to push productivity and efficiency to new levels.
Long track-on-ground standard (EX) and low ground pressure (PX) models are available to offer customers flotation and weight distribution options to best match their applications. Operating weights range from 18,386 to 21,363 lbs. (8,340 to 9,690 kg) depending on the configuration and model. At 2200 rpm, the new models push with a net 89 hp and 105 hp, respectively.
Developed as compact and nimble work site performers, the D37-23 and D39-23 are designed for a wide variety of applications, including land clearing, grading, forestry and site work. A full guarding package, hydraulic winch and other attachments are available for easy customization to meet specific customer requirements.
These crawler dozer models are equipped with the latest Komtrax technology, which is fully integrated with Komatsu’s Tier IV technology, and sends machine operating information, such as hour meter, location, cautions, load ratio, fuel consumption and maintenance alerts, to a secure Web site utilizing wireless technology. The Komtrax fleet monitoring system increases machine availability, reduces the risk of machine theft (compared to machines that are not Komtrax-equipped), allows for remote diagnosis by the distributor, and provides a wealth of other information to drive business efficiency and productivity.
Special features of these new crawler dozers include:
• EPA Tier IV Interim and EU stage 3B emission certified engine
Built upon Komatsu Tier III technology, the Tier IV Interim SAA4D95LE-6 engine provides the same high horsepower while lowering fuel consumption by up to 10 percent when compared to the previous models. Komatsu’s Tier IV Interim engine platform uses an advanced electronic control system to manage airflow rate, fuel injection, combustion parameters, and after-treatment functions to optimize performance, reduce emissions, and provide advanced diagnostic capability, according to the manufacturer.
The new Komatsu diesel oxidation catalyst (KDOC) has an integrated design that does not interfere with daily operation. This smart and simplified system removes soot using 100 percent “passive regeneration” without the need for a diesel particulate filter (DPF). The KDOC does not have a scheduled replacement interval like a DPF and is designed for long life with no required maintenance. For owners, this means lower owning and operating costs due to less complexity and seamless operation for the operator.
A new variable flow turbocharger, direct flow air filter, high pressure common rail fuel injection, 16-valve cylinder head and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) are used on the D37-23 and D39-23, resulting in precise air flow management and more complete combustion, eliminating the need for a DPF.
• Blade Visibility and Ride
The steeply sloped engine hood and forward cab design provide more room for operators while moving them closer to the blade, for improved blade visibility, ride quality, enhanced grading ability and overall comfort. The cab also has an integrated ROPS / FOPS structure and is designed using large glass windows for better visibility. Internal cab air pressure and air filters minimize dust entering the cab, and viscous cab damper mounts suppress noise and vibration when traveling over rough terrain making these new models quieter than their predecessors.
• New durable and productive power angle tilt (PAT) blade
A newly designed PAT blade with a highly durable box structure and good curvature rolls material efficiently and improves productivity. Standard adjustable blade pitch allows the operator to adjust the aggressiveness of the cutting edge for varying applications. The new hydraulic blade angle toggle switch improves ease of blade operation.
• Next generation HST transmission and engine control technology significantly improves fuel economy
The D37-23 and D39-23 feature two selectable working modes, economy (E) and Power (P), that match machine performance to the application. E mode is intended for all general dozing, leveling and spreading applications providing adequate speed and power while saving fuel. P mode is intended for slot dozing, ripping, uphill dozing or other applications that require maximum power where engine power has priority over fuel consumption.
The D37-23 and D39-23 incorporate new proprietary engine and hydrostatic transmission pump control technology to improve operational efficiency, increase productivity up to 4 percent and reduce fuel consumption to levels lower than a conventional HST control system. This Komatsu exclusive feature reduces fuel consumption by up to 10 percent in P mode in demanding working conditions and up to 20 percent in E mode under lighter load conditions compared to the prior model, according to the manufacturer.
Powerful turns under various work conditions are achieved with the new HST transmission, even under load. Counter-rotation is available for minimum turning radius, providing maneuverability in tight spots.
The D37-23 and D39-23 offer two gearshift modes: variable and the new customizable quick shift. Variable shift mode provides 20 incremental speed settings for the operator, while the new customizable quick shift provides three speed settings, which can be adjusted in the monitor to obtain the right speed for different operator preferences.
• Newly designed joystick controls for power and comfort
Komatsu’s ergonomically designed palm command control system (PCCS) gives operators maximum control, offering a relaxed posture and superb fine control to minimize operator fatigue. Thumb push buttons simplify transmission speed setting shifts, which are indicated graphically on the monitor. The travel lever turning sensitivity can now be easily adjusted on the monitor to better match operator preferences. The electro-hydraulic controls incorporate a new blade angle switch and float switch. The blade feel also can be adjusted on the monitor to best match operator preference.
• New cab design improves operator environment
The comfortable working environment of the new dozers allows operators to concentrate on the work at hand for increased productivity. The interior cab decibel level has been decreased to 70 dB (D37-23) and 72 dB (D39-23) for a quiet work environment. A comfortable standard air ride seat with heat further enhances operator comfort. A standard rear view monitoring system can be synchronized with reverse operation.
A new HST version of the large 7 in. high-resolution LCD color monitor in the cab displays all machine information. An easy-to-use tab system allows operators to select the parameters they want to see and also provides quick troubleshooting for a service technician with easy to use on-board diagnostics.
• Komatsu Care
Komatsu remains focused on lowering customer ownership costs by engineering machines with increased fuel efficiency and productivity. Komatsu Care complimentary scheduled maintenance is standard on all D37-23 and D39-23 crawler dozers for the earlier of three years or 2,000 hours. Services are performed by factory certified technicians using only Komatsu genuine parts and fluids.
• Convenient maintenance equals reliability
Recognizing that maintenance is critical for successful equipment uptime, Komatsu has designed the D37-23 and D39-23 with easy routine maintenance in mind. Daily engine checks are grouped at the left-hand side of the engine compartment. The engine oil can be drained at the front of the machine without crawling under it. The rear mounted swing-up electronically-controlled hydraulic fan allows for easy checking of the radiator, oil cooler and charge air cooler. A manually reversing fan allows for quick cleaning of the side by side coolers.
For more information, visit www.komatsuamerica.com.