Galion and Komatsu 670/870 Motor Graders: A Legacy of Durability and Precision

[MikePhua]

Introduction to the 670 and 870 Models
The Galion and Komatsu 670 and 870 motor graders are renowned in the construction and road maintenance industries for their robust build and precise grading capabilities. These machines have served contractors for decades, offering a blend of ruggedness and fine control necessary for shaping roads, leveling surfaces, and preparing sites for paving.
Originally built by Galion Iron Works and later acquired by Komatsu, these graders represent a lineage that combines American manufacturing heritage with Japanese engineering improvements. Their longevity in the field speaks volumes about their design and reliability.
Engine and Powertrain Features
The 670 and 870 models feature diesel engines optimized for consistent power delivery and fuel efficiency. These engines provide sufficient horsepower to handle heavy grading tasks and attachments such as scarifiers and snow plows.
Operators appreciate the smooth shifting transmissions and responsive controls, which help maintain consistent blade pressure and precise movements. The balance between power and fuel economy was especially valued during the fuel crises of the 1970s and remains relevant in today’s cost-conscious environment.
Blade and Moldboard Capabilities
A standout feature of the Galion and Komatsu graders is their moldboard design, typically ranging from 12 to 14 feet in length. The moldboard’s articulation and tilt functions allow operators to achieve precise cuts and slopes, essential for road base preparation.
Some operators have shared stories of tackling challenging slopes and uneven terrain where the 670 and 870 graders excelled, maintaining stability and blade control where other machines struggled.
Operator Comfort and Cab Ergonomics
While the early models had basic operator cabins, later iterations incorporated improvements such as better visibility, enhanced seating, and more intuitive control layouts. These changes reduced operator fatigue during long hours on the job.
A veteran grader operator once noted that despite their age, the 670 and 870 cabins provided “a straightforward and reliable work environment,” emphasizing that the machines’ simple yet functional design fostered confidence.
Maintenance and Parts Availability
Maintaining these classic graders requires attention to detail. Many owners have remarked that while some parts are becoming scarce, the strong aftermarket support and rebuild programs help extend their machines’ service life.
Local shops specializing in motor grader parts often carry refurbished components, and some operators have successfully sourced parts from other models or adapted components through custom machining. This resourcefulness is often shared among grader communities as a way to keep these machines operational beyond their expected lifespan.
Real-World Applications and Stories
In rural counties and smaller contractors, the 670 and 870 remain workhorses for grading gravel roads, maintaining airstrips, and performing snow removal. One story highlights a grader operator in Montana who restored a Galion 870 to full working order, praising its “solid frame and straightforward hydraulics” as key to enduring tough winters and rough terrain.
Another account recalls a 670 grader being used in a reclamation project in the Midwest, where it skillfully reshaped land for agricultural use after mining operations ceased.
Conclusion: Enduring Machines in a Changing Industry
The Galion and Komatsu 670 and 870 motor graders exemplify machines built to last, combining rugged durability with precise control. While newer models have introduced advanced electronics and comfort features, the simplicity and dependability of these graders continue to attract loyal operators and contractors.
Their legacy endures not only in the roads they shape but also in the stories of operators who have come to rely on these steadfast machines. As the construction industry evolves, the 670 and 870 stand as reminders that solid engineering and practical design never go out of style.