InfraStructures - October 2005 - Komatsu Offers Excavator-Style Joystick Controls in its Backhoe Loaders

Komatsu Offers Excavator-Style Joystick Controls in its Backhoe Loaders

The Utility Division of Komatsu America Corp. (KAC) continues to upgrade its line of backhoe loaders with excavator-style joystick controls. The excavator-type control option will be offered on the WB140-2N, WB140PS-2N, WB150-2N, WB150PS-2N and the WB150AWS-2N backhoe loaders. Other recent upgrades to these loaders include increased hydraulic speed, stronger, more advanced components and Tier 2 compliant engines.

The WB140-2N and WB150-2N represent Komatsu's standard models, while the WB140PS-2N and WB150PS-2N feature Komatsu's powershift transmission. The WB150AWS-2N is Komatsu's all-wheel steer backhoe with tires of equal size and also features the powershift transmission.

In addition to offering strong performance and reliability benefits, Komatsu has engineered the cab to offer operators improved visibility, comfort, and easier access to controls and levers. These backhoes, with operating weights between 7536 kg and 8958 kg, are designed for use in a variety of loading and excavation applications, including underground utility, general construction and landscaping operations.

The excavator-type control system features tiltable joystick control towers, function control buttons, and an easy-to-read dash panel. The two joystick control towers adjust to a 15° tilt to provide the best visibility of the excavation area. Each joystick is equipped with an adjustable wrist support for better comfort during operation.

The shift-on-the-fly gear selector (only available on the PS models) allows the operator to twist the shifter up or down to change gear selection for improved cycle time and less operator fatigue.

Komatsu's S4D106-2XFH/2SFA turbocharged, water-cooled diesel engine conforms to all Tier 2 EPA, EU and Japanese emissions regulations without sacrificing machine power. These machines feature 87 hp output for the WB140 series and 94 hp output for the WB150 series.

Komatsu's continued commitment to hydraulic system advancements has led to increased hydraulic speed during both backhoe and loading applications. Utilizing Komatsu's HydrauMind hydraulics, this system consists of a single variable flow hydraulic pump and a hydraulic circuit that allows the machine to react almost instantly to specific operator controls. It also features a closed center load sensing system with a variable flow pump to ensure that only the amount of oil needed for high operating pressure is generated and used, guaranteeing efficiency, low fuel consumption and quiet operation.

The "all-wheel steer" model, the WB150AWS-2N, includes the features of the "powershift" transmission machines plus the benefits of three different steering modes : two-wheel steering, four-wheel coordinated steering and crab steering. These steering options give the WB150AWS-2N a turning radius more than a foot shorter than competitive models, making the machine extremely maneuverable. This model also features Komatsu's Electronic Gear Management (EGM) system that supplies self-diagnostic and anti-theft systems.

Source: Komatsu America