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New Komatsu compact loader for Ireland

Ireland’s compact-class wheel loader segment has a new challenger in the form of Komatsu’s WA80M-8 model, sales of which have just commenced there. Aimed at farmers, agricultural and landscape contractors, bulk material providers and waste processors, the WA80M-8 is described by its distributor, John O’Brien, director of McHale Plant Sales as a ‘reliable and versatile’ all-rounder.

Like its larger siblings, the wheel loader is an item of plant that has been quietly making its way from the quarry to the farmyard. Brother to the larger WA100M-8 version, the new WA80M model is a six-tonne unit powered by a 72hp EU Stage V engine with a new, increased 40km/h over-the-ground speed and a variable ‘creep speed’ option of up to 10km/h. Fully automatic hydrostatic transmission delivers power to all four wheels, and up front is a 1.25 cubic-metre bucket.

Other features include Easy Fork kinematics when transporting loads – with pallet forks running parallel to the ground and without the need to readjust fork tines; cleaning intervals of up to 6,000 hours duration, with the DPF remaining maintenance‐free for up to 10 years; an easy-to-fill bucket; Komatsu’s own KOMTRAX system with maintenance alerts and remote monitoring tech. Inside, operators are treated to a multifunctional colour monitor and a PPC multi‐function lever for easy operating. Optional air conditioner and electronic controlled suspension system (ECSS) add to comfort.

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