by Nick Drew | Mon 11 Jul 2016
Komatsu’s PC138US is a bit of a looker
Of all the compact radius excavators on the market today, for me the Komatsu PC138US is the best looking machine of the whole bunch, it’s been a while since I last operated one, but in recent weeks I’ve spotted some around and its re- ignited my interest in the Japanese machines.
During the recent Hillhead Quarry and Mining Show Marubeni-Komatsu displayed the very latest model of the PC138US which is now in its Dash-11 guise. This near zero tail swing machine has an operating weight ranging between 13,400 – 14,467kgs depending on specification and now features a Komatsu SAA4D95LE Tier 4 Final emissions compliant engine offering a net power output rating of 93.5hp (69.7kw). These compact machines are great for working in confined work areas and single lane road jobs. The addition of Komatsu’s optional “KOMVISION” 360 degree bird’s eye view camera set up further enhances safety and peace of mind for the operator.
Last week I was out on a photo shoot assignment in Reading and I spotted another Komatsu PC138US this time in its Dash-10 configuration. The smart looking 13 tonne class machine which is owned by Tadley based John Stacey was busy pouring concrete into a set of footings on the development.
This machine looks to have had its dozer blade removed for some reason, as the mounting brackets are clearly visible but I think you would have to agree, they are a very smart looking piece of kit.
The last time I was operating one of these on a regular basis was back in 2006 when I was charged with a brand new PC138US-2 for London based BCL Plant on a site in Plymouth, it was a nice machine to operate, very smooth with plenty of power. It was a great all-rounder for site work but it gobbled up the work too quick and I was soon on the move again after all the excavation work was completed!
Hopefully I will get to grips with Komatsu’s latest offering during a forthcoming visit to Komatsu UK.