Komatsu boosts power with new PC170LC-11 excavator

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Updated Mar 31, 2017
A 121-horseopwer engine on Komatsu’s PC170LC-11 hydraulic excavator boosts productivity 6 percent over previous models.A 121-horseopwer engine on Komatsu’s PC170LC-11 hydraulic excavator boosts productivity 6 percent over previous models.

At ConExpo, Komatsu introduced the PC170LC-11, saying the new excavator boasts 6 percent more productivity than predecessors through an enhanced power mode.

The 121-horsepower, Tier 4 Final engine produces plenty of power for the excavator, yet the PC170LC-11 remains light enough to be transported on a 40,000-pound trailer, says product manager Andrew Earing.

The excavator’s viscous fan clutch adds another improvement over previous models, yielding a 5-percent higher flywheel horsepower (FWHP) rating and a reduction in sound. Komatsu also reduced noise in the cab by 2 decibels.

The excavator also comes with Komtrax level 5 technology that provides such machine data as fuel and diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) levels, diesel particulate filter, regeneration status, location, cautions and maintenance alert information. Komtrax’s operator ID shows data by job, application or operator. The data are presented on an updated 7-inch LCD monitor that has a split-display mode, showing rearview camera and gauge data simultaneously.

Other features on the PC170LC-11 include an auto-idle shutdown system, a platform-mounted DEF tank with sight glass, an ISO/backhoe pattern-change valve to easily switch joystick patterns, six work modes that match engine speed and pump flow to the job, and reduced hydraulic pressure loss in the main valve.