Komatsu unveils reduced radius Dash-eight model

Komatsu has introduced its first reduced radius Dash-eight machine - the PC138US-8 - and upgraded two standard configuration units to Dash-eight specification.

While the short-radius base frame has been carried over from the outgoing Dash-two model, the superstructure, engine and hydraulic system of the PC138US-8 are all new.

Komatsu has redesigned its sliding-door cab to bring the roll- over protection up to the level of its standard Dash-eight cabin and give the operator more room, while restricting the tailswing to 235mm.

Inside the cab is a bigger display and new joysticks from the standard machine. The display doubles as a monitor for the standard rear view camera and the terminal for Komtrax, Komatsu's recently upgraded and increasingly standard satellite tracking and monitoring system.

A 68kW Stage IIIa engine offers a 10% fuel saving. On top of that are Komtrax-enabled features such as auto idle, idle warning - which advises the operator to turn the engine off if idling for too long - an economy mode and an electronic check of whether the operator has selected the correct mode for the work in hand, which can further boost fuel savings. These are in addition to machine tracking, geo-fencing, fault and service alerts and a pin-activated immobiliser function.

Also joining the Dash-eight range are the PC450-8, a direct replacement for the PC 450-7, and the PC350-8, which replaces the 340-7.