Trucks, skids; and control

Komatsu America has announced that the production of 30 – 40 ton articulated haulers has been shifted from Japan to the US, that its latest and most powerful skid steer loader has been introduced, and that joystick controls are now available on the company's backhoe loader range.

Production of Komatsu 30 to 40 ton articulated haulers has been moved from Mooka in Japan, to Chattanooga, in Tennessee. The factory already produces the company's mid-size excavator and wheeled loader lines, motor graders and cranes and will now produce the HM300-1, HM350-1, and HM400-1 (pictured) articulated trucks.

The new skid steer loader being launched by Komatsu America is the SK1026-5 which, with an operating weight of 8068 lb (3660 kg), is the largest in the range.

According to Komatsu, the unit features increased power with enhanced loader arm and bucket control, one of the longest wheelbases in its class, and HydrauMind hydraulics, Automatic Power Control, and standard two-speed travel features.

The SK1026-5 is powered by Komatsu's turbocharged S4D98E-2NFD diesel engine, which produces 84 hp (63 kW) at 2500 rpm, and the loader has a self-levelling bucket, 40-degree dump and 28-degree rollback angles, and vertical-lift loader arm design.

Finally, the Utility Division of Komatsu America has added the excavator-type, joystick controls option on the WB140-2N, WB140PS-2N, WB150-2N, WB150PS-2N and WB150AWS-2N backhoe loaders.

The excavator-type control system features tiltable joystick control towers, function control buttons, and an easy-to-read dash panel. The two joystick control towers adjust to a 15-degree tilt to provide good visibility of the excavation area. Each joystick is equipped with an adjustable wrist support for better comfort during operation.