Komatsu launches WA380-8 wheel loader with improved power, cab (PHOTOS)

Updated Sep 7, 2015
Komatsu WA380-8 action centered

Boasting more power, less fuel consumption and a few improvements to operator comfort, Komatsu has launched an update to its WA380 wheel loader.

The WA380-8 is powered by a 6.69-liter, Komatsu SAA6D107E-3 turbocharged engine producing 191 horsepower. The machine employs a diesel particulate filter (DPF), Selective Catalyst Reduction (SCR) and Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) to reduce emissions and meet Tier 4 Final requirements.

An electronic control system—managing airflow, fuel injection combustion parameters and after treatment functions—and an auto-idle shutdown feature combine for a 6-percent reduction in fuel consumption over the Dash-7 machine.

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The machine also features Komatsu’s SmartLoader Logic software and a lockup torque converter. In second, third and fourth gears, the system activates and optimizes engine torque for the conditions and work load at hand. The result is a higher top speed and improved acceleration, hill climbing and fuel savings over the WA380-8’s predecessor.

“With one of the highest breakout forces in its class and excellent balance, this machine is made for tough digging tasks,” said Komatsu product manager Craig McGinnis. “The WA380-8 is ideal for carrying pipe, sand and other aggregates, site clean up and support, digging into piles and backfilling.”

Inside the cab, operators will find many of the same improvements announced with the new WA470-8 including a new air-suspension, high-back heated seat and seat-mounted pilot control levers with an F-N-R switch.

Rounding out the cab features are a 7-inch color display featuring Ecology Guidance, a standard separate color rear view monitor along with an auxiliary jack and two 12-volt ports.

Operators and whoever else is in charge of regular maintenance of the machine will appreciate the following additional features:

  • Swing out cooling fan with wider fin spacing and standard auto-reversing fan for ease of cleaning.
  • Gull-wing engine doors that provide quick, convenient access for daily checks and service items.
  • Additional hinged panels at each side of the machine for easy access to regeneration components.

The WA380-8 is equipped with the company’s telematics system, Komtrax, which allows operators and fleet managers to keep up with the machine’s fuel levels, operating hours, location while providing cautions and maintenance alerts via a website or a smartphone. Additionally, Komtrax now monitors DEF levels, ambient air temperatures and pressures.

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Komatsu CARE is provided on the machine for the first three years or 2,000 hours, and includes scheduled factory maintenance, a 50-point inspection at each service, and two DPF exchanges and DEF tank flushes in the first five years.