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| Komatsu's new GD655-5 motor grader  Komatsu America Corp. introduced the new GD655-5 motor grader, powered by a powerful and highly fuel-efficient, EPA Tier 3 emission certified Komatsu SAA6D107E-1 engine. With an increased maximum horsepower of 218 and an increased standard configuration weight of 35, 351lbs, the GD655-5 is entering the largest grader segment in North America. The completely new power train design positions the engine at the rear of the machine. This placement, along with the increased weight on the front axle, provides better control.Komatsu engine technology provides a three-stage 2-Mode system that produces higher power with reduced fuel consumption. This 2-Mode system allows the operator to select either an economy mode or a power mode, depending on the work application. The three-stage system offers three levels of power from gear one through gear eight, producing more productivity with a 20% fuel consumption savings when compared to the previous model. The Komatsu new dual-mode power shift transmission is designed and built specifically for Komatsu graders. The dual-mode provides a lockup torque converter mode as well as a direct drive mode. There is a new anti-stall mode for direct drive. Before the grader stalls in a low speed application, the transmission shifts to the torque converter mode ensuring operator control. In addition to a 9% power increase, the weight of the base machine has been increased 8%. The additional weight and increased wheelbase add up to more stability, easier blade positioning and greater productivity. The new Komatsu-designed cab (patent pending) has a hexangular shape that eliminates the front corner pillars, which allows for greater visibility. The cab of the GD655-5 provides unsurpassed visibility through the wide floor-to-ceiling side windows. The narrow front console and narrow saddle arms offer the operator a clear view, providing the confidence to maximize productivity. A tapered engine hood improves the view to the rear of the machine and the rear ripper. With a 21% larger cab, the operator has extra leg room and a low noise level of only 74dB(A). The open cab includes tinted windows with intermittent wiper/washers on all windows. Air conditioner/heater, electric rear window defrost, 12V power port, radio, lunch box holder, cup holder and coat hook are all standard. The console mounted hydraulic controls are arranged in the industry standard pattern on each side of the steering wheel, with Komatsu-designed control valves built specifically for graders. The closed center load sensing hydraulic system (CLSS) offers consistent and precise control, ensuring the operator is in total command. The new GD655-5 has been designed for quick and easy maintenance. The easy-to-read multi-colored panel monitor allows the operator to check the current daily machine functions. Large service doors open wide for easy access to service points and daily routine maintenance. Refueling can be easily done from the ground. The tandem now does not require greasing. The new hydraulic driven reversible fan saves power and reduces noise. When working in dusty conditions the fan can be reversed and the radiator cleaned easily. In addition, the GD655-5 is equipped with KOMTRAX technology, which sends machine operating information to a secure website utilizing wireless technology. KOMTRAX tracks fuel consumption on a daily average, as well as actual working and idle hours—in addition to relaying data such as operating hours, location, cautions, and maintenance alerts to the web application for analysis. It also relays machine abnormalities information. 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. *All comparisons are to the Komatsu GD655-3. write your comments about the article :: © 2010 Construction News :: home page |