Backhoe loaders - solutions from Komatsu Limited

The Komatsu WB 97 backhoe loader is a versatile all-wheel drive machine that has an attractive design and is equipped with modern safety systems. It provides productivity when performing excavation and loading work.

Navigation

• Features and Benefits
• Technical characteristics and dimensions
• Engine
• Device
• Chassis
• Hydraulic system
• Operator's cabin
• Control system
• Attachments
• Equipment
• Modifications
• Cost of new and used
• Analogs

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Features and Benefits

All wheels of the vehicle are steerable, which increases maneuverability even in difficult conditions. During the development, the experience of previous design was taken into account and modern developments were used, which led to an increase in performance properties.

The technique can be used in difficult conditions to perform:

• loading and unloading materials;
• transportation of goods over short distances;
• digging and excavation of soil.

Photo of Komatsu 97 loader
The excavator has several characteristic features:

• the powerful and reliable Komatsu WB 97 P engine is turbocharged and has a large volume;
• constant traction on the wheels is ensured by a gearbox with the ability to change gears under load;
• durable axles and brakes;
• control of all 4 wheels;
• hydraulic system ensuring precision and simultaneity of movements;
• comfortable cabin with a wide viewing angle;
• ease of maintenance.

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Buying secondhand

The first thing you should do when purchasing such equipment second-hand is to ask yourself again whether it is really necessary. Because no one can give good guarantees that the electronic device will last at least a year and be able to recoup its cost. It is important to make such a decision only based on your goals:

• If a person understands that his equipment will not be heavily loaded and will rarely be used, then buying a used one is a suitable option. The only caveat is the long payback period.
• But when a person buys such equipment only because of a desire to save money, then this is a really good moment to think about it.

Whatever the decision, the average client also needs to know about the correct purchase of a backhoe loader. Such advice will never be superfluous, and will also help you coordinate in choosing the best model that the secondary market can offer.

Technical characteristics and dimensions

The main technical characteristics of the Komatsu WB97S are:

A backhoe bucket and heavy-duty S-shaped boom equipment are installed as standard. When installing the telescopic handle, the discharge height, radius and digging depth are 5.15 m, 7.18 m and 6.47 m, respectively.

Dimensions of Komatsu WB97S-5 are:

dimensions

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Review of backhoe loader models

Komatsu WB93-R

The base machine in the 93 line of backhoe loaders.

A universal unit capable of performing both the work of an excavator and a front-end loader. The index R in the model designation indicates different-sized pneumatic wheels of the front and rear axles of the chassis. The weight of the vehicle is 7.46 tons, the power plant is a diesel turbocharged engine with a power of 74 kW.

1. The mechanically controlled transmission is synchronized, equipped with a Power Shuttle mode change system, and has 4 forward and reverse gears, engaged under load without interrupting the power flow. The pneumatic wheels connected to the front axle transmission are directionally controlled by a hydrostatic drive.
2. The SyncroSystem hydraulic system provides 2 modes of operation of the working bodies - economical and high-power.
3. The S-shaped boom of the excavator optimally absorbs loads and increases the breakout force on the bucket. Constant length handle. Bucket 0.19 m3 capacity with replaceable cutting plane. The boom mounting column allows a rotation of 90° towards both sides.
4. Double or single jaw front loader bucket with a volume of 1.1 m3. The loading bucket boom mechanism provides sufficient breakout force and lifting capacity.
5. To increase the stability of the unit during excavation work, hydraulically controlled outriggers (outriggers) are installed.
6. The cabin is comfortable and provides normal working conditions for the operator. In direction, the machine is controlled by the steering wheel, braking is carried out by two pedals, the pressure on the hydraulic cylinders of the working parts is regulated by changing the position of the spool device lever.

Komatsu WB93R-2

The second generation product in the 93 series machine line. The weight of the machine is 7.5 tons. The following have been modernized: the hydraulic system, transmission units, controls and controls, and the operator’s cabin. A diesel engine with a turbocharging system of 74 kW power is used. The total volume of the cylinder group is 4.4 liters, which ensured high torque and reliability of the unit. Direct fuel injection and engine control systems determined the efficiency of the power plant and its compliance with environmental requirements.

Features of components and assemblies:

1. The machine's transmission is equipped with a servo-driven reversible hydrokinetic type gearbox. The unit provides 4 modes of torque transmission when moving forward and in reverse, transport speed is 40 km/h.
2. The SynchroSystem hydraulic system with a variable displacement pump uses CLSS open center load control devices to regulate the flow power depending on the load on the implements. A LIFD hydraulic flow distributor is used, ensuring independence in the operation of the actuators when turned on at the same time. To perform a specific operation, the operator has the opportunity to select an economical or high-power operating mode of the hydraulic system. The changes made reduced the working cycle time and increased the productivity of the machine.
3. The design of the loader and excavator booms and their attachment points ensured high load parameters, sufficient unloading height and digging depth. Installation systems for working parts allow you to quickly replace and use the necessary replacement equipment. The excavator boom arm can be used in a telescopic design.

Komatsu WB93R-5

The machine is the fifth and latest generation with a powerful hydraulic system, improved controls, and a new operator cabin design. The mass of the unit is 8.07 tons, the power of the turbocharged power plant is 74 kW.

Product Features:

1. Different-sized pneumatic wheels on axles.
2. High performance provided by a closed center hydraulic system equipped with a variable displacement axial piston pump.
3. The differentials of the reinforced axles are locked by an electro-hydraulic drive.
4. Switching operating modes of working bodies into economical and high-power parameters.
5. The joystick for servo control of the front loading bucket is installed as a standard option. The presence of a mode for short-term increase in force on the bucket.
6. The displacement of the excavator boom column by a hydraulic cylinder towards one of the sides, which reduces the number of rearrangements of the machine and increases output.
7. Quick release couplings for buckets.
8. Self-leveling mechanism of the front bucket when lifting. The handle does not block the view of the working platform.
9. The S-shaped boom of the backhoe optimally distributes the load and allows excavation in the presence of obstacles. The telescopic handle increases the digging depth and radius of the working area.

Dimensional and operational parameters

The dimensions of the machines of the 93 line of Komatsu backhoe loaders of different generations, as well as their operational characteristics, differ little. Indicators are given for the product WB93R-5.

Komatsu WB93S-5

The fifth generation unit with the same size wheels on the axles. This type of equipment makes the front loader more productive and the machine itself more stable. The weight of the product is 8.55 tons, the power of the diesel power plant is 74 kW.

Features of the model are:

1. Adopted design solutions: – layout of the loader boom with a parallel connection, ensuring an increase in loading height and bucket load capacity; – S-shaped excavator boom, optimally distributing loads; – functional and safe arrangement of hydraulic hoses and lines.
2. Operator-friendly control cabin: – ROPS system that protects the operator when the machine rolls over; – FOPS system protects against falling objects; – the level of glazing and lighting devices allow for complete visual control of the work area; – ergonomic solutions in the placement of control units and dashboard; – ventilation, heating and air conditioning systems.
3. Versatility in use: – steering in three modes (front wheels, all wheels, “crab” steering); – lateral displacement of the excavator boom carriage by hydraulics; – quick-release attachment points for working tools; – installation of pallet forks.
4. Control over the machine: – hydraulic system with adjustable flow, economical and power modes of operation; – joystick control of the front bucket; – Power Shuttle transmission with 4 forward and reverse gears; – electrohydraulic differential locking; – reinforced bridges.

Dimensional and operational parameters

It is important! Komatsu WB97 is the base machine of the 97 line of heavy-duty backhoe loaders. It is produced with different-sized axle pneumatic wheels - WB97R, pneumatic wheels of the same standard size - WB97S.

Komatsu WB97R

A machine with an operating weight of 8.16 tons, a diesel power plant of 74 kW.

Model features:

1. The unit allows operation in harsh conditions - components, parts and mechanisms were designed with a long service life and have a reinforced structure.
2. HydrauMind technology, tested on Komatsu excavators, is used to hydraulically drive the boom mechanism of the backhoe and front loader. This made it possible to ensure productive operation of the equipment under any load on the working parts due to the optimal distribution of the flow of the hydraulic mixture.
3. Three modes of machine control in the direction of movement, which ensures maneuverability on small construction sites.
4. Independent movement on public roads at speeds up to 40 km/h.
5. Economical and high-power modes when performing work operations.
6. Quick-release units for fixing working parts, which allows you to install replaceable equipment without wasting time.
7. The transmission with mechanical control is fully synchronized, provides switching of 4 modes forward and reverse without interruption in the power flow.
8. A cabin with curved window panels, modern lighting technology providing an overview of the work area, with heating and ventilation systems. Position-adjustable seat with air suspension. Informative side and front control panels.

Komatsu WB97R is the second generation product of the 97 line of backhoe loaders for use in severe operating conditions. The weight of the unit is 8.56 tons, the power of the turbocharged diesel unit is 74 kW.

When finalized, the basic model received:

1. A hydraulic system with optimal pressure distribution of the working fluid.
2. Transmission with servo-controlled mode switching, reinforced axles, electro-hydraulic differential locking.
3. Control cabin with ROPS and FOPS safety systems.
4. Joystick control of front loader and outriggers.
5. Extended period between maintenance. Easy access to components and assemblies.

Komatsu WB97R-5 is the fifth generation product of the 97 line of machines. The unit is productive, reliable and economical, has an operating weight of 8.16 tons, and a power plant power of 74 kW. The machine, created using modern design solutions, provides maximum operator comfort, high productivity of the joystick-controlled loader and the S-shaped backhoe bucket.

The advantages of the unit are determined:

1. Powerplant manufactured by Komatsu with high torque, which determines its reliability and long-term operation. Direct fuel injection and a turbocharging system ensure that the engine is economical and meets environmental standards.
2. The automatic transmission with Power Shuttle system allows for changing modes without interruption in the power flow and moving forward and backward in 4 gears. The operator selects only the direction of movement (forward and reverse) using the control knob. Travel speed up to 40 km/h.
3. A closed-type hydraulic system with load sensing regulates the performance of the axial piston pump unit, providing the hydraulic cylinders of the working bodies with the necessary pressure in two modes - economical and with increased power. The force on the front bucket is briefly increased by a switch on the joystick handle.
4. The excavator boom carriage is hydraulically shifted in the transverse direction, which increases the size of the working area. The boom arm is equipped with a telescopic extension mechanism.
5. Quick-release attachment points for working equipment.

Front loader boom

Telescopic handle

Dimensional and operational parameters

The dimensional parameters of machines of the 97 line of different generations, as well as their operational characteristics, differ little. Indicators are given for the product WB97R-5.

Backhoe loaders Komatsu WB97S, WB97S-2, WB97S-5

Machines of the 97 line with the S index are analogues of the WB-97R, WB-97R-2, WB-97R-5 units. The difference is the same standard size of pneumatic wheels on both axles, some features in the steering geometry. This arrangement makes the machine more stable and passable, and increases the efficiency of the front loader.

The dimensional and operational parameters of backhoe loaders of the 93 line with the S index of different generations differ slightly. The operating weight of the machines is about 8.55 tons, the power of the power plant is 74 kW. Dimensions are given for product WB97S-5.

It is important! Komatsu backhoe loaders of the WB93R-5, WB97S and WB97S-5 models are supplied to the Russian market. According to reviews from owners, the machine parameters declared by the manufacturer are confirmed by operation in difficult conditions.

Engine

The excavator is equipped with a four-cylinder power unit with a capacity of 74 kW or 99 horsepower. The self-produced model SAA4D104E-1 is characterized by a volume of 4.5 liters, it has a vertical layout, a turbocharger, a water cooling system, direct injection, and an intercooler. The shaft rotation speed is 2200 rpm and the torque is 420 Nm.

The Komatsu VB 97 C engine works together with an electrically controlled automatic transmission with gear shifting under load. It has 4 forward and 4 reverse gears. The engine also interacts with an all-wheel drive transmission equipped with limited-slip differentials on both axles.

Consumption is 15.7 l/h of diesel fuel, the tank holds 150 liters of fuel.

The power plant is started from a starter with an air system and a pre-heater. This allows the Komatsu WB97 to be operated at sub-zero temperatures. Dry filters with protective elements and a radiator are located in the engine compartment.

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Main settings

The 5th generation Komatsu WB97S fully complies with brand standards in terms of safety, element reliability and performance. The main components are made of wear-resistant materials, and the quality of workmanship of even a small part is beyond doubt.

Table No. 1. Technical characteristics

When designing the station wagon, special attention was paid to customer requests from all over the world. The chassis design was developed taking into account objective comments and criticism.

Engine, fuel consumption

Under the hood of the “Japanese” there is a four-cylinder diesel engine of its own production, but assembled together with the Iveco company. This is a liquid-cooled in-line motor.

Fuel injection is implemented according to the “DI” principle - direct supply to the cylinders.

Torque is increased by turbocharging with an intermediate heat exchanger. To operate the machine in cold regions, a preheating system is provided. Diesel parameters:

• rated speed - 2200 rpm;
• cylinder volume - 4.485 l;
• maximum torque (crankshaft speed) - 420 Nm (1200 rpm);
• average fuel consumption - 9-12 l/hour;
• cylinder diameter/piston stroke, mm - 104/132;
• compression ratio - 17.5:1;
• exhaust toxicity standard - 97/68EC 2004/26/EC - EU Stage IIIA.

Gearbox, chassis

The engine is combined with a torque converter and gearbox. The gearbox is represented by the “Full Power Shift” system, which electronically controls the drives of the front and rear axles. The box operates in semi-automatic mode and produces 4 stages for movement in forward and reverse directions.

The front axle can be connected automatically or manually by the operator. But when driving at transport speed, its activation is impossible. To give the chassis stability on uneven surfaces, the front axle can be tilted at an angle of 16° from one extreme position to another. All wheels are steerable.

• The operator has 3 operating modes available: turning only the front ones, all in one direction, front and rear in different directions. This solution has increased the maneuverability of the loader; it can move “trail after trail” or move in a “crab-like motion.”
• The car has disc brakes immersed in an oil bath. The drive on them is separate for the right and left sides. To activate the braking of all wheels, press 2 pedals simultaneously.

Hydraulics

The actuators of earth-moving and loading equipment are driven by the pressure of the working fluid.

• Oil is pumped into the hydraulic system by an axial type piston pump.
• Its productivity is 165 l/min, and its pressure is 25 MPa.

The hydraulic system itself, called SyncroSystem, ensures precise positioning of the working tool while simultaneously moving in 3 planes. The operator has 2 hydraulic system control modes available to the operator: power and economical.

• In the first case, productivity is ensured with high fuel consumption.
• Economy mode involves operating in the engine speed range at which the highest torque is achieved. The performance of the device will decrease, but fuel consumption will decrease.

In addition to those indicated, the operator has access to the “increase speed” mode. It can be used when working with a loader.

Chassis

Depending on the selected gear, the speed of the car can reach 40 km/h. To change gears at full load, a rotary lever is used, and the shift is usually automatic. The speed shift function is controlled using a button on the front panel, and the indicator lights up.

To ensure performance in difficult conditions and maneuverability, the installation of self-locking differentials is provided. As standard, the Komatsu WB 97 is equipped with self-adjusting multi-disc hydraulic brakes in an oil bath. To activate them, two pedals are provided, intended for two bridges. The pincer-type “handbrake” operates from a lever in the cabin.

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Type series

The company produces only 2 modifications of Komatsu: models with the indexes “S” and “R”. The first is a car with a chassis on equal-sized tires. A special feature of the model is the rotary hubs of all wheels. The loader has increased maneuverability, which is important when working in cramped conditions.

The second option was equipped with front and rear wheels of different sizes. Only the first ones are manageable. The model has a larger turning radius, and it is used mainly in excavation.

Hydraulic system

The loader is equipped with a hydrostatic steering system with feedback. It activates four wheels in the following modes:

• standard;
• speed – improved maneuverability and increased speed;
• “crab run” – work in a small area.

The heart of the hydraulics is the closed center load sensing system. It adjusts power based on the force required to complete a task. Depending on the goals, the operator can choose a powerful or economical mode.

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Advantages and disadvantages

The backhoe loader has a number of significant advantages. Among other things, it makes sense to name:

• a hydrokinetic servo-type gearbox, which makes controlling the movement of special equipment much easier;
• the ability to control all four wheels of the model, this significantly improves its ability to maneuver and increases its off-road capability;
• the ability to move using the crab motion method (that is, sideways with both pairs of wheels turning in one direction), which also gives an advantage in maneuverability;
• the presence of a productive hydraulic system, which has a load monitoring mechanism; due to the presence of the ability to adjust the oil flow, the working fluid is used in an effective way, since the operator has the ability to configure the currently required mode for efficiency and productivity.

Operator's cabin

In addition to the high performance characteristics of the Komatsu WB 97, the loader has a comfortable cabin. It is safe thanks to the installation of FOPS and ROPS protection systems. The interior space is spacious, which does not cause difficulties when operating equipment, entering and exiting the cabin. Wide front glass and glass on all sides provide convenience and safety.

The cabin has air ducts for ventilation and air conditioning; they eliminate fogging and icing of the windows. Inside the cabin there is a comfortable seat, a large number of indicators, a clear instrument panel, holders and storage compartments. It is possible to install a safe seat position sensor, which in the event of an accident turns off the machine controls.

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Control system

The Komatsu WB 97 backhoe loader is controlled using proportional control elements. Joysticks are located on two columns, which are adjusted to the driver's preferences. With their help, the bucket is controlled, the clutch is disengaged and the speed of the machine is increased. Manipulations with the rear outriggers occur in a similar way.

Depending on the selected operating mode, it is possible to turn the wheels on one axle or on both axles. This provides versatility and maneuverability. It is envisaged to use wheels of the same size, which makes it possible to evenly distribute the load and improve traction with the base.

The steering mode is switched using two buttons on the dashboard.

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MMM – versatility, mobility and maneuverability

The three specified parameters best describe all the advantages of this product.
But the area of ​​operation best determines the advantages and disadvantages. If a person plans to carry out repair and construction work in the city, then it is not recommended to use special-purpose equipment, because there will be no place for it to turn around, especially in small yards. In addition, there is a possibility of damage to the asphalt due to the tracks. A small excavator can solve this problem in a few minutes. Digging a trench and working as a pipelayer - all this can be done by one device, and a person will not have to pay a lot of money to purchase auxiliary equipment. The device can also be used as a hydraulic hammer, which will allow you to hollow out a small area near the pedestrian path without hitting it, which is very important. The excavator is also used to clean the area when it is covered with snow. It is light and mobile, which allows you to quickly clean the area from contamination, doing it efficiently and in the shortest possible time. Another positive point is that the equipment can easily travel tens of kilometers without using auxiliary equipment, and after that function normally, and also not lose the warranty period.

When used in urban environments or in the country, this product ranks first in terms of cost of work, which is why the demand for it is constantly growing. The same cannot be said about highly specialized equipment, which has a high price tag per hour of work. In addition, the equipment does not require expensive maintenance at a technical station, and also does not consume a lot of fuel.

Of course, if it is necessary to carry out a gigantic amount of work, then this equipment will be useless, but no one hires such equipment for such purposes. More often it is preferred when it is necessary to carry out a small operation in a place that is difficult to access for complex equipment. In other cases, most customers will prefer the latter. However, this in no way makes backhoe loaders unnecessary. On the contrary, it is an excellent auxiliary equipment that can do a lot.

Attachments

The Komatsu 97 loader is equipped with a backhoe bucket in the basic assembly. The rounded boom is designed to improve lifting capacity. The long arm allows for increased digging power, and a telescopic or offset boom allows for a wider range of applications. For this purpose, it is also possible to install additional equipment:

• mower (sharp knives) with changing the height of the blades - for trimming vegetation, chopping material;
• a brush with a hopper of different volumes, a side brush and a water spray for collecting debris;
• screw-motor cleaner - for clearing large areas of snow;
• milling cutter - for road repair work using a Komatsu 97 backhoe loader;
• “four in one” bucket – universal equipment for various jobs;
• trench bucket - for digging narrow channels up to 0.4 m wide;
• leveling bucket - for leveling areas with limited access (canals, slopes, embankments);
• grab bucket - for creating excavations and wells in hard-to-reach conditions;
• road milling machine - for partial repair of sidewalks and roadways;
• The hydraulic hammer is used to destroy asphalt, frozen soil, concrete and reinforced concrete structures, rocks, etc.;

• vibratory rammer is used when planning territories, preparing them for construction, and compacting materials;
• hydraulic drill is used to create holes for the installation of barriers, poles, etc., when planting vegetation in parks;
• pallet forks – for loading and unloading with a Komatsu WB 97 excavator of pallets of different widths;
• concrete mixer with a standard bucket installed in place - for mixing concrete and applying it to the road surface.

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Purpose

The Komatsu WB97S-5 forklift is in demand in various fields of activity. In particular, this may include loading, unloading and moving heavy and bulk cargo, including fragile and easily breakable containers. By the way, special attachments are provided specifically for it. In addition, the model in question is capable in different places - in the territory of shopping terminals, open and closed warehouses, and is also in high demand in agriculture, airports, seaports, etc. Together with the Komatsu loader, not only work with large volumes is possible cargo, but cultivating the land in different ways - hilling, harrowing, plowing, loosening and other tasks. The car will ideally cope with the role of a tractor and tug. The functionality of the loader can be expanded thanks to various devices, which will be discussed later in the article.