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+--- Thread: Komatsu 220-8 Excavator User Review: Efficient, Durable, but with Some Minor Issues (/thread-5693.html)
Komatsu 220-8 Excavator User Review: Efficient, Durable, but with Some Minor Issues - MikePhua - 06-29-2025
The Komatsu 220-8 excavator, a flagship model in Komatsu's product line, is well-known for its reliability and performance. Today, we'll hear from a seasoned user who shares their real-world experience with this machine, providing valuable insights into its strengths and weaknesses.
Purchase Background and Initial Use
In 2009, the user’s company took on a slope treatment project in Gansu. To meet the project’s needs, in addition to an existing Komatsu 240 excavator, they decided to purchase a Komatsu 220-8 directly from Xi’an. The machine weighs 23 tons and comes with a 1.3m³ bucket. Now, with 6278 operating hours on the clock, the machine still runs well, showing no signs of oil leakage. It’s worth mentioning that, in the first 5500 hours of operation, the machine was used exclusively for light tasks, with no stone work, thanks to a highly skilled operator who was meticulous with maintenance and care.
Advantages: High Efficiency and Adaptability
- Bucket and Work Efficiency
Despite being labeled as the 220 model, the machine was fitted with a 1.3m³ bucket, 0.3m³ larger than the standard. The larger bucket did not affect its speed at all. In fact, the user found that the 220-8 was consistently faster than the Komatsu 240 with the same-sized bucket, making it highly efficient for loading tasks.
- Excellent Environmental Adaptability
One notable example of the 220-8's adaptability came during the winter when the site was unable to source #10 diesel and had to use #0 diesel instead. While five excavators were in operation—two Komatsu machines and three domestic brands—the 220-8 was the only one that could consistently perform, even in cold temperatures. Despite using the same diesel, the 220-8 started up quickly and continued to operate, showcasing its excellent performance in extreme conditions.
- Cost-Effectiveness
From a cost perspective, the Komatsu 220-8 is not only more affordable than the 240, but it also holds better resale value in the second-hand market. The fuel consumption is lower than the 240, yet the 220-8’s work performance is equally impressive, making it a great choice for users seeking efficiency and economy.
- Water Reservoir Problem
One issue the user noted was the quick depletion of water in the machine's water reservoir. Every four to five days, it needed to be refilled with a bottle of mineral water. Despite multiple repairs, this issue persisted, making it a recurring problem.
- Air Conditioning and Door Seal Issues
The air conditioning in the cab is not very effective, with low airflow and poor cooling performance. Even after recharging the refrigerant, the issue persisted. Additionally, after a rollover incident, the door seals no longer functioned properly, causing dirt to accumulate in the cab at the end of each workday. While this did not impact the machine’s ability to function, it did reduce overall comfort.
While the Komatsu 220-8 does have some minor issues, its after-sales service is highly commendable. Last June, the user had to leave the worksite due to personal reasons, and a Komatsu 240 excavator rolled over. Although the machine was out of warranty, the user was able to rely on the strong relationship between their company and Komatsu’s Xi'an headquarters. Within 24 hours, a professional service team arrived on-site, performed a full inspection, and replaced all necessary fluids. The swift and thorough service ensured that the machine was back in operation in no time, highlighting Komatsu's commitment to customer satisfaction.
Conclusion:
Overall, the Komatsu 220-8 excavator is an excellent choice for projects that require high efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Despite some minor issues such as water reservoir depletion and air conditioning inefficiency, the machine performs exceptionally well in most working conditions. Its strong performance, adaptability to various environments, and outstanding after-sales support make the Komatsu 220-8 a reliable and valuable asset for any construction site.