Earthmoving Report: Komatsu D61-23 Achieves Fuel Gain, Boasts New Blade
Frank Raczon, Senior Editor
Komatsu’s D61-23 crawler dozer has a Komatsu Tier 4-Interim SAA6D107E-2 engine that provides the same horsepower as its predecessor, while lowering fuel consumption by up to 10 percent, the company says.
The engine provides 168 net horsepower at 2,200 rpm and uses Komatsu’s Tier 4-Interim engine platform with an advanced electronic control system to manage airflow rate, fuel injection, combustion parameters, and aftertreatment functions.
Komatsu D61-23 Crawler Dozer Specifications
- Engine: Komatsu SAA6D107E-2 T4-I
- Net horsepower: 168 at 2,200 rpm
- Operating weight: 39,099 to 41,138 pounds, depending on configuration
Komatsu’s diesel particulate filter has an integrated design that will not interfere with daily operation but will keep the operator aware of its status. It removes soot using “passive regeneration” the majority of the time to minimize “active regeneration” events. Its hydraulically actuated variable geometry turbocharger and EGR valve are designed for precision and better air management, Komatsu says.
Longer track-on-ground standard (EX) and low ground-pressure (PX) models are available for owners needing flotation and weight distribution options to match particular applications. Operating weights range from 39,099 pounds to 41,138 pounds, depending on configuration.
Design-wise, Komatsu has gone to a steeply sloped engine hood and forward cab for more operator space, and moved them closer to the blade.
A newly designed blade has standard adjustable pitch and a new hydraulic blade angle toggle. New proprietary engine and hydrostatic transmission pump control technology improve efficiency and reduce fuel consumption, the company says: 10 percent in “P” mode and 20 percent in “E” mode.
The D61-23 offers two gearshift modes: “Variable Shift” and a new “Customizable Quick Shift.” Variable Shift mode provides 20 incremental speed settings for the operator, and the Customizable Quick Shift provides 3 speed settings; all can be adjusted on the monitor to obtain the desired speed per operator preference.
A new HST version of the large 7-inch, high-resolution LCD color monitor displays all machine information. Its tab system allows operators to select the parameters they want to see and also provides troubleshooting help for service technicians with on-board diagnostics.
Also inside the cab, the interior decibel level has been decreased to 76 dB, and an air-ride seat with heat is standard.
Komatsu’s Palm Command Control System features thumb push buttons that simplify the transmission speed setting shifts shown graphically in the monitor.
The travel lever turning sensitivity can also now be adjusted in the monitor to better match preferences. New blade electro-hydraulic controls incorporate the new blade angle switch and float switch. Blade feel can be adjusted in the monitor, as well.
The Komtrax fleet monitoring system is standard on the D61-23, is fully integrated with Komatsu’s Tier 4 technology, and sends machine operating information to a secure website utilizing wireless technology.
Hours, location, cautions, load ratio, fuel consumption, and maintenance alerts, among other readings, are transmitted to the web application for analysis.
Komatsu Care complimentary scheduled maintenance is also standard on all D61-23 crawler dozers for 3 years or 2,000 hours, whichever comes first.
A full guarding package, hydraulic winch, and other attachments are available to customize dozers for land clearing, forestry and other specialized site work.
