User Report: Komatsu and Doosan Excavators After 14 Years of Use

[MikePhua]

This article shares the experiences of a user who has worked with various excavators over the past 14 years, including models from Komatsu, Doosan, Daewoo, and others. The user provides insights into the strengths and weaknesses of different machines, based on real-world usage.
Komatsu PC200-3 Excavator
Purchase and Usage

• Purchase Time: Approximately 14 years ago, second-hand, purchased for 450,000 RMB with 3,000 operating hours.
  
• Issues Found: Initially, the machine appeared to be original, but over time, the user discovered that it had been refurbished. After five years, the fan belt was not replaced, which led to the belt breaking and causing the engine to overheat. After replacing the belt, the engine failed completely within a week.
  
• Solution: The user sought help from an expert who recommended replacing the engine with a customized Yuchai engine. The cost for the new engine and installation was only around 30,000 RMB, a significant saving compared to the 380,000 RMB quoted by the manufacturer for a new engine. After replacement, the machine ran like new.
  

Evaluation: Overall, the Komatsu PC200-3 was an excellent machine, with reliable performance and robust build quality. Despite the engine replacement, the machine continued to perform well, showing the high quality of Komatsu's manufacturing.
Daewoo DH220LC-V Excavator
Purchase Decision

• Reason for Purchase: After the engine replacement in the Komatsu PC200-3, the user was dissatisfied with the brand and decided to purchase a new machine. They initially considered buying a new Komatsu PC220, but due to the high price, they shifted focus to other brands. Daewoo offered a good value alternative, with the DH220LC-V priced at 670,000 RMB.
  
• Experience: The Daewoo DH220LC-V is currently at 16,000 hours of use, with a 10-year lifespan. The machine has not undergone major repairs, and 90% of the original paint remains intact. The user plans to replace the chain at 20,000 hours, as it is significantly worn. Despite the decrease in speed, the machine still operates well at 2,000 RPM under load.
  

Evaluation: The Daewoo DH220LC-V has been very reliable over the years. Despite a slight decrease in speed, the machine is still strong, and its performance in heavy work remains commendable. The user continues to have great respect for Daewoo's build quality.
Komatsu PC220-6 and PC220-7 Excavators

• PC220-6: This model has been very reliable when well-maintained. At 15,000 hours, the machine’s hydraulic pump remained in excellent condition. However, there was an issue with the track system when used in a stone quarry, as the idler wheels needed replacing after 12,000 hours.
  
• PC220-7: This model has inherited most of the features of the PC220-6 but with a few minor issues. The main issue is the tendency for the boom and arm to crack, although this is not a serious problem.
  

Komatsu PC240LC-8 Excavator
Performance Features

• Power: The Komatsu PC240LC-8 features an electronically controlled engine, providing excellent power output. Among the 240-class excavators from various brands, the Komatsu model stands out for its power.
  
• Fuel Consumption: One downside is its high fuel consumption. Using the P mode with 100% throttle, fuel consumption can reach as high as 28.6 liters per hour, especially when working with difficult materials. To improve fuel efficiency, the E0-E3 modes can be used, with E0 being the closest to P mode and E3 being the slowest but most fuel-efficient.
  

Evaluation: The PC240LC-8 is an outstanding machine in terms of stability and power. It can handle any task, from soft to hard ground, making it a versatile option for a variety of jobs. However, its high fuel consumption remains a major drawback, especially in regions where fuel costs are high.
Overall Evaluation of Komatsu Excavators
Komatsu excavators are highly regarded for their performance and durability. However, over time, certain issues have become more apparent:

• Fuel Consumption: Komatsu excavators, especially the PC-6, -7, and -8 series, tend to have higher fuel consumption compared to competitors. While the -8 series is equipped with an electronically controlled engine, it still consumes more fuel than earlier models.
  
• Hydraulic Cylinders: There is a tendency for hydraulic cylinders to burn out or get discolored over time, particularly in the -8 series. While this does not affect the machine's performance, it does impact the machine's appearance.
  
• High-Pressure Hose Issues: It is common for high-pressure hoses to fail after around 5,000 hours of use, requiring replacement.
  

Conclusion

• Komatsu PC240LC-8: This model offers great power and stability, but its high fuel consumption is a significant drawback. It remains an excellent all-around excavator for various tasks, but users should be mindful of the operating costs.
  
• Daewoo DH220LC-V: A reliable and cost-effective option, this excavator has performed well over 16,000 hours without major issues. The user recommends it as a strong contender for long-term use, especially when compared to more expensive models.
  
• Komatsu’s Overall Quality: While Komatsu excavators maintain a high level of performance and durability, users should be aware of the increased fuel consumption and hydraulic issues in certain models. Despite these drawbacks, Komatsu continues to be a leading brand in the excavator market.