Komatsu D65WX: Wide-Track Power Meets Stability

[MikePhua]

               

Engine and Performance

• Equipped with a 217 HP (162 kW) engine operating at 1,950 RPM—a Tier 4 Final powerplant delivering both strength and efficiency .
  
• Features a lock‑up torque converter paired with an automatic transmission, boosting driveline efficiency by around 10% versus traditional setups .
  

Stability and Undercarriage

• Combines standard-length tracks (EX) with a wider gauge (PX) to form the WX variant—offering enhanced stability on slopes without needing extra-wide, low-ground-pressure tracks .
  

Operating Weight and Blade Capacity

• Standard D65WX‑18:
  • Operating weight: 22,117–23,373 kg (48,760–51,529 lb)
    
  • Blade capacity: 5.9 m³ (7.7 yd³) .
    
• Waste-handler variant (D65WX‑18 WH):
  • Heavier at 24,199 kg (53,350 lb)
    
  • Larger blade capacity of 13.1 m³ (17.2 yd³) .
    

Specialized Configurations

• Available with SIGMADOZER® blades or inside‑mount power‑angle‑tilt (PAT) blades to suit mass excavation or precise grading tasks .
  
• Waste-handler package (WH models) includes extra guarding, auto‑reversing fan, pre‑cleaner, and improved access for cleaning—ideal for landfill or debris-heavy environments .
  

Advanced Efficiency & Controls

• Engine incorporates VGT (Variable Geometry Turbocharger), EGR, and DOC/KDPF aftertreatment to reduce emissions without sacrificing performance .
  
• Multiple shift modes available:
  • Auto‑shift with lockup ON/OFF
    
  • Manual shift with auto‑downshift ON/OFF
    These options balance fuel economy with productivity .
    

Dimensions & Mobility Features

• D65WX‑18 dimensions (SIGMADOZER):
  • Width: approx. 6′9″
    
  • Wheelbase: 9′9″
    
  • Ground clearance: 16″
    
  • Turning radius: 6′11″
    
  • Fuel capacity: 109.6 gal (415 L) .
    

Terminology Highlights

• Wide‑Track (WX): Undercarriage style combining track length and width for improved ground contact.
  
• SIGMADOZER®: High-capacity blade designed for aggressive earthmoving.
  
• PAT (Power‑Angle‑Tilt) Blade: Blade that tilts and angles for precise material shaping.
  
• Lock‑up Torque Converter: Mechanism that engages clutch to bypass slippage, enhancing drive efficiency.
  
• VGT, EGR, DOC/KDPF: Emission control systems ensuring Tier 4 compliance without performance loss.
  

Real-World Anecdote
Imagine a contractor working on a hillside reclamation project. The standard D65 model struggled with lateral stability. Enter the D65WX—with its wider tracks, the machine moved confidently across slopes, delivering smooth passes with the SIGMADOZER blade. At a nearby landfill, the D65WX‑18 WH proved its worth again: its auto‑reversing fan kept the radiator clear of debris, while the extra guarding protected vital components. Thanks to its thoughtful design, the dozer kept running through cleanup without interruption.
Bottom Line
The Komatsu D65WX series cleverly merges the footprint of the EX with the width of the PX undercarriage, creating a dozer that delivers both power and stability. With a fuel-smart engine, versatile blade options, and rugged configurations for challenging environments, the D65WX stands out as a reliable, efficient workhorse.
If you’d like performance comparisons or operator insights, feel free to ask!