Komatsu America Corp.’s new line of D65-17 crawler dozers are powered with the fuel efficient and larger displacement, 8.9 L, EPA Tier IV Interim and EU Stage 3B emission certified Komatsu SAA6D114E-5 engines. Built upon a Tier III engine platform, Komatsu has designed an environmentally friendly engine that increases power while decreasing fuel consumption an additional 5 percent over the Tier III model it replaces, according to the manufacturer.
A standard (EX), low ground pressure (PX) and a wide (WX) track model are available to offer customers flotation and weight distribution options that best match their applications. Operating weight ranges from 44,355 to 49,315 lbs. (20,119 to 22,369 kg) depending on the version. The new models push with a net (ISO 9249 / SAE J1349) 205 hp (153 kW) at 1,950 rpm.
Developed primarily for heavy dozing and finishing operations, the D65-17 combines the SIGMADOZER blade with an automatic transmission with torque converter lock-up to achieve enhanced productivity and fuel economy. A new Komatsu 6-way Power Angle Tilt (PAT) blade also is available for all models, creating a balanced and agile tractor for light and medium dozing operations. The blade also provides precise grade cutting required for site prep, golf course or house pad applications.
The new dozer is equipped with KOMTRAX technology, which sends machine operating information to a secure Web site utilizing wireless technology. Hour meter, location, cautions, load ratio, fuel consumption and maintenance alerts — to name a few of its features — are relayed to the web application for analysis. The KOMTRAX fleet monitoring system increases machine availability, reduces the risk of machine theft, 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 Tier III technology, the Tier IV Interim SAA6D114E-5 engine provides increased horsepower while lowering fuel consumption. 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.
Komatsu also has developed a hydraulically actuated Komatsu variable geometry turbocharger (KVGT) and an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve, resulting in better precision and air management as well as longer component life. The Komatsu diesel particulate filter (KDPF) has an integrated design that will not interfere with daily operation but will keep the operator aware of its status.
• Choice of the next generation SIGMADOZER blade for productivity and grading, or PAT blade for versatility and performance
The D65EX and WX are equipped with SIGMADOZER, providing the machine with a large blade capacity of 7.34 cu. yds. and 7.72 cu. yds. (5.6 and 5.9 cu m) respectively. Based on a completely new excavation theory, SIGMADOZER improves dozing performance and increases productivity by 15 percent over conventional semi-U blades, according to the manufacturer.
The Komatsu designed blade increases soil holding capacity while simultaneously reducing sideway spillage because it digs and rolls material up at the center of the blade. SIGMADOZER also reduces digging resistance producing a smoother flow of material enabling the dozing of larger amounts of soil with less power.
A PAT blade with highly durable box structure C-Frame is optionally available for each model. The hydraulic blade tilt and angling function expands versatility and productivity in a variety of applications. The manually adjustable blade pitch further expands the versatility and productivity in many applications. The new D65-17 models include a new toggle switch to angle the 6-way blade for increased operator ease.
• Automatic transmission improves fuel economy
The D65-17s have a new automatic transmission with lock up torque converter that reduces fuel consumption and offers greater power train efficiency. The lockup mechanics of the torque converter automatically transfers engine power directly to the transmission, reducing fuel consumption by 10 percent. The Tier IV engine provides an additional 5 percent reduction. Because of the efficiency of the electronically controlled engine and transmission, fuel consumption is decreased while machine power is maintained.
Two gearshift modes — automatic or manual — can be easily selected to fit the appropriate application: automatic for all general dozing offers the choice of four forward and reverse speeds and manual for dozing and ripping rough ground offers the choice of three forward and three reverse speeds. For maximum operating efficiency, the automatic gearshift transmission shifts to the optimal gear range based on the working conditions and load.
Two selectable working modes — E and P — match machine performance to the application. E mode is chosen for all general dozing, leveling and spreading applications providing adequate speed and power while saving up to 10 percent fuel. P mode is chosen for slot dozing, ripping or other applications requiring maximum production where engine power has priority over fuel consumption.
• 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 fine control to minimize operator fatigue. Thumb push buttons simplify transmission gear shifting. The pilot controlled hydraulic blade and ripper control joystick offer blade and ripper fine control.
Engine speed is controlled using an easy-to-operate electronic throttle control dial, which eliminates maintenance of linkage and joints. Powerful turns under various work conditions are achieved with the hydrostatic steering system (HSS), which is driven by an independent hydraulic pump and motor to transmit power to both tracks without interruption. Counter-rotation is available for minimum turning radius, providing maneuverability
• Cab design creates optimal operator environment
The new D65-17 crawler dozer’s comfortable working environment allows the operator to concentrate on the work at hand for increased productivity. The new larger cab is now integrated with ROPS (roll-over protection structure) and moves the standard air ride operator’s seat 3 in. higher and 4 in. closer to the blade for enhanced front, side and rear visibility.
The dozer’s viscous cab mounts reduce shocks and vibration even over adverse conditions. The interior cab decibel has been decreased to 75dB for a quiet work environment. A new, large 7 in. high resolution color LCD monitor in the cab displays all machine information. A comfortable standard air ride seat with heat enhances operator comfort further.
• Convenient maintenance equals reliability
Recognizing that maintenance is critical for successful equipment uptime, Komatsu has designed the D65-17 with easy routine maintenance in mind. Daily engine checks are grouped at the left hand side of the engine compartment. A manually reversing fan allows for quick cleaning of the radiator without leaving the cab. The D65-17 also comes standard with the parallel link undercarriage system (PLUS). This rotary bushing system doubles the undercarriage life compared to prior conventional systems, significantly lowering owning and operating costs.
For more information, visit www.komatsuamerica.com.
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