3 hours ago
Introduction to the D65WX-17 Dozer
The Komatsu D65WX-17 is a mid-size crawler dozer designed for grading, pushing, and land-clearing operations. Known for its wide-track configuration and balance between power and maneuverability, the D65WX-17 is often deployed in forestry, construction, and reclamation projects. One of the more nuanced aspects of this model is its undercarriage system—specifically, the use of PLUS (Parallel Link Undercarriage System) tracks and the possibility of converting to conventional chains.
Terminology Clarification
• PLUS Track System: Komatsu’s proprietary sealed and lubricated track design that reduces wear and extends service life. It features rotating bushings and hardened components.
• Conventional Chains: Standard track chains without rotating bushings, typically requiring more frequent maintenance and replacement.
• Track Shoes: The steel plates bolted to the track chain that provide traction and flotation.
• Undercarriage Conversion: The process of replacing one type of track system with another, often involving changes to shoes, sprockets, and guards.
Conversion Feasibility and Technical Implications
Operators have questioned whether the PLUS track system on the D65WX-17 can be swapped for conventional chains. While technically possible, the conversion requires careful consideration of compatibility and performance trade-offs.
• Track Shoe Compatibility
PLUS track shoes are designed to work with rotating bushings. Switching to conventional chains necessitates replacing the shoes to match the new bushing profile and wear pattern.
• Sprocket and Guard Adjustments
The sprockets used with PLUS tracks may differ in pitch and tooth profile from those used with conventional chains. Guarding systems may also need modification to accommodate different chain widths and movement dynamics.
• Lubrication and Maintenance
Conventional chains require more frequent greasing and inspection. The PLUS system’s sealed bushings reduce maintenance intervals, making it more suitable for high-duty cycles.
• Cost and Availability
While conventional chains may be cheaper upfront, their shorter lifespan and increased maintenance can offset initial savings. PLUS components, though more expensive, offer longer service intervals and reduced downtime.
Field Anecdotes and Operator Experience
• A contractor in Alberta converted a D65PX from PLUS to conventional chains due to availability issues during a remote project. The machine performed adequately, but required more frequent undercarriage inspections and shoe replacements.
• In Oregon, a forestry operator noted that PLUS tracks held up better in abrasive terrain, especially when pushing over stumps and rocky soil. He advised against conversion unless parts availability or budget constraints made it necessary.
• A retired mechanic recalled working on a D65WX-17 in a reclamation site where the PLUS system’s rotating bushings prevented premature wear from constant turning and grading. The machine ran over 4,000 hours before needing a full undercarriage rebuild.
Historical Context and Design Philosophy
Komatsu introduced the PLUS system to address common wear issues in conventional track chains, especially in high-turn environments. The rotating bushing design reduces wear on both the bushings and sprockets, extending the life of the entire undercarriage. This innovation was part of a broader industry trend toward sealed and lubricated systems, paralleling developments by Caterpillar and John Deere.
• In the early 2000s, Komatsu’s PLUS system was seen as a breakthrough in reducing operating costs for mid-size dozers.
• The D65WX-17, with its wide-track stance, was optimized for low ground pressure and stability on soft or uneven terrain.
Maintenance Tips and Best Practices
• Inspect track tension regularly, especially after switching systems.
• Monitor shoe wear and bushing rotation to detect early signs of failure.
• Use OEM or compatible aftermarket parts to ensure proper fit and longevity.
• Keep detailed service records to track wear patterns and anticipate rebuild intervals.
Conclusion
The Komatsu D65WX-17 offers robust performance in a variety of earthmoving applications, and its PLUS track system is a key component of its durability. While conversion to conventional chains is possible, it requires thoughtful planning and mechanical adaptation. Operators must weigh the benefits of reduced maintenance against the flexibility and cost of conventional systems. In the end, the choice reflects not just technical feasibility, but the operational philosophy of the crew behind the machine.
The Komatsu D65WX-17 is a mid-size crawler dozer designed for grading, pushing, and land-clearing operations. Known for its wide-track configuration and balance between power and maneuverability, the D65WX-17 is often deployed in forestry, construction, and reclamation projects. One of the more nuanced aspects of this model is its undercarriage system—specifically, the use of PLUS (Parallel Link Undercarriage System) tracks and the possibility of converting to conventional chains.
Terminology Clarification
• PLUS Track System: Komatsu’s proprietary sealed and lubricated track design that reduces wear and extends service life. It features rotating bushings and hardened components.
• Conventional Chains: Standard track chains without rotating bushings, typically requiring more frequent maintenance and replacement.
• Track Shoes: The steel plates bolted to the track chain that provide traction and flotation.
• Undercarriage Conversion: The process of replacing one type of track system with another, often involving changes to shoes, sprockets, and guards.
Conversion Feasibility and Technical Implications
Operators have questioned whether the PLUS track system on the D65WX-17 can be swapped for conventional chains. While technically possible, the conversion requires careful consideration of compatibility and performance trade-offs.
• Track Shoe Compatibility
PLUS track shoes are designed to work with rotating bushings. Switching to conventional chains necessitates replacing the shoes to match the new bushing profile and wear pattern.
• Sprocket and Guard Adjustments
The sprockets used with PLUS tracks may differ in pitch and tooth profile from those used with conventional chains. Guarding systems may also need modification to accommodate different chain widths and movement dynamics.
• Lubrication and Maintenance
Conventional chains require more frequent greasing and inspection. The PLUS system’s sealed bushings reduce maintenance intervals, making it more suitable for high-duty cycles.
• Cost and Availability
While conventional chains may be cheaper upfront, their shorter lifespan and increased maintenance can offset initial savings. PLUS components, though more expensive, offer longer service intervals and reduced downtime.
Field Anecdotes and Operator Experience
• A contractor in Alberta converted a D65PX from PLUS to conventional chains due to availability issues during a remote project. The machine performed adequately, but required more frequent undercarriage inspections and shoe replacements.
• In Oregon, a forestry operator noted that PLUS tracks held up better in abrasive terrain, especially when pushing over stumps and rocky soil. He advised against conversion unless parts availability or budget constraints made it necessary.
• A retired mechanic recalled working on a D65WX-17 in a reclamation site where the PLUS system’s rotating bushings prevented premature wear from constant turning and grading. The machine ran over 4,000 hours before needing a full undercarriage rebuild.
Historical Context and Design Philosophy
Komatsu introduced the PLUS system to address common wear issues in conventional track chains, especially in high-turn environments. The rotating bushing design reduces wear on both the bushings and sprockets, extending the life of the entire undercarriage. This innovation was part of a broader industry trend toward sealed and lubricated systems, paralleling developments by Caterpillar and John Deere.
• In the early 2000s, Komatsu’s PLUS system was seen as a breakthrough in reducing operating costs for mid-size dozers.
• The D65WX-17, with its wide-track stance, was optimized for low ground pressure and stability on soft or uneven terrain.
Maintenance Tips and Best Practices
• Inspect track tension regularly, especially after switching systems.
• Monitor shoe wear and bushing rotation to detect early signs of failure.
• Use OEM or compatible aftermarket parts to ensure proper fit and longevity.
• Keep detailed service records to track wear patterns and anticipate rebuild intervals.
Conclusion
The Komatsu D65WX-17 offers robust performance in a variety of earthmoving applications, and its PLUS track system is a key component of its durability. While conversion to conventional chains is possible, it requires thoughtful planning and mechanical adaptation. Operators must weigh the benefits of reduced maintenance against the flexibility and cost of conventional systems. In the end, the choice reflects not just technical feasibility, but the operational philosophy of the crew behind the machine.
