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The Sumitomo SH120 Excavator and Its Global Footprint
The Sumitomo SH120 is a mid-sized hydraulic excavator developed by Sumitomo Construction Machinery Co., Ltd., a Japanese manufacturer with a legacy dating back to 1963. Sumitomo’s excavators are known for their precision engineering, fuel efficiency, and durability in harsh environments. The SH120, part of the SH series, was designed to meet the demands of urban construction and mid-scale earthmoving projects. Its compact swing radius and efficient hydraulic system made it popular in markets across Asia, the Middle East, and parts of South America.
By the early 2010s, Sumitomo had sold tens of thousands of SH-series excavators globally, with the SH120 being a staple in regions where Japanese imports dominated the used equipment market. In countries like Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Kenya, secondhand Japanese machines often arrive with Japanese-language interfaces, posing a challenge for local operators.
Language Settings and Interface Limitations
One of the most common frustrations for operators of imported Japanese excavators is the language barrier in the machine’s digital interface. The SH120’s onboard monitor system—used for diagnostics, fuel consumption tracking, and maintenance alerts—is typically programmed in Japanese. Unlike newer models from brands like Kobelco or Komatsu, which offer multilingual support via toggle switches or software menus, the SH120 lacks a straightforward method for switching languages.
This limitation stems from the machine’s original design intent: it was built for domestic use in Japan, where English-language support was not prioritized. The monitor system uses a proprietary firmware embedded in the control unit, and unless the machine was exported officially with regional customization, the language remains locked.
Is Language Change Possible?
Technically, changing the language on a Sumitomo SH120 is not supported through user-accessible settings. There are no toggle switches or menu paths to switch from Japanese to English. However, there are three potential workarounds:
In 2013, a contractor in Sri Lanka imported a used SH120 from Yokohama. The machine was in excellent condition, but the Japanese interface confused his operators. After weeks of trial and error, he discovered that the error codes matched those in a Link-Belt manual he found online. By cross-referencing symbols and alerts, he created a laminated cheat sheet for his crew. Productivity improved, and the machine remained in service for over a decade.
Another story comes from Nairobi, where a fleet manager used a translator app to decode Japanese alerts. He mounted a tablet in the cab, and whenever a warning appeared, the operator would snap a photo and send it to the office for translation. While not elegant, it kept the machines running.
Why Language Localization Matters
Language barriers in heavy equipment aren’t just inconvenient—they can be dangerous. Misinterpreting a hydraulic fault warning or ignoring a maintenance alert due to unreadable text can lead to breakdowns or safety incidents. In 2019, a construction site in Dhaka reported a hydraulic line rupture on a Japanese-imported excavator. The warning had appeared days earlier, but the operator didn’t understand the message. Fortunately, no one was injured, but the downtime cost the company over $4,000.
Recommendations for Operators and Buyers
While changing the language on a Sumitomo SH120 excavator is not officially supported, creative field solutions and OEM part swaps offer partial workarounds. The issue highlights a broader challenge in global equipment trade: the need for better localization and operator support. As more machines cross borders, ensuring that operators can safely and effectively use them—regardless of language—should be a priority for manufacturers and dealers alike.
The Sumitomo SH120 is a mid-sized hydraulic excavator developed by Sumitomo Construction Machinery Co., Ltd., a Japanese manufacturer with a legacy dating back to 1963. Sumitomo’s excavators are known for their precision engineering, fuel efficiency, and durability in harsh environments. The SH120, part of the SH series, was designed to meet the demands of urban construction and mid-scale earthmoving projects. Its compact swing radius and efficient hydraulic system made it popular in markets across Asia, the Middle East, and parts of South America.
By the early 2010s, Sumitomo had sold tens of thousands of SH-series excavators globally, with the SH120 being a staple in regions where Japanese imports dominated the used equipment market. In countries like Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Kenya, secondhand Japanese machines often arrive with Japanese-language interfaces, posing a challenge for local operators.
Language Settings and Interface Limitations
One of the most common frustrations for operators of imported Japanese excavators is the language barrier in the machine’s digital interface. The SH120’s onboard monitor system—used for diagnostics, fuel consumption tracking, and maintenance alerts—is typically programmed in Japanese. Unlike newer models from brands like Kobelco or Komatsu, which offer multilingual support via toggle switches or software menus, the SH120 lacks a straightforward method for switching languages.
This limitation stems from the machine’s original design intent: it was built for domestic use in Japan, where English-language support was not prioritized. The monitor system uses a proprietary firmware embedded in the control unit, and unless the machine was exported officially with regional customization, the language remains locked.
Is Language Change Possible?
Technically, changing the language on a Sumitomo SH120 is not supported through user-accessible settings. There are no toggle switches or menu paths to switch from Japanese to English. However, there are three potential workarounds:
- Monitor Replacement
Some operators have replaced the monitor unit with one from a Link-Belt or Case-branded equivalent. These brands often share platforms with Sumitomo due to OEM agreements. For instance, Link-Belt’s 120X series shares core components with the SH120. Swapping the monitor may unlock English-language support, but compatibility must be verified with part numbers and firmware versions.
- Dealer Reprogramming
Authorized dealers in regions like Southeast Asia or the Middle East may offer reprogramming services. This involves flashing the monitor’s EEPROM with an English-language firmware. However, this service is rare, expensive, and not guaranteed to work on older units.
- Overlay Decals and Operator Training
A practical field solution involves applying English-language decals over the monitor buttons and training operators to recognize key alerts and symbols. This method doesn’t change the language but improves usability. Some training centers in Sri Lanka and India offer short courses on interpreting Japanese interfaces.
- EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory)
A type of memory chip used to store firmware. Reprogramming EEPROM requires specialized tools and software.
- OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer)
Refers to companies that produce parts or machines for other brands. Sumitomo has OEM relationships with Link-Belt and Case.
- Monitor Unit
The digital interface in the cab that displays machine status, error codes, and maintenance alerts.
In 2013, a contractor in Sri Lanka imported a used SH120 from Yokohama. The machine was in excellent condition, but the Japanese interface confused his operators. After weeks of trial and error, he discovered that the error codes matched those in a Link-Belt manual he found online. By cross-referencing symbols and alerts, he created a laminated cheat sheet for his crew. Productivity improved, and the machine remained in service for over a decade.
Another story comes from Nairobi, where a fleet manager used a translator app to decode Japanese alerts. He mounted a tablet in the cab, and whenever a warning appeared, the operator would snap a photo and send it to the office for translation. While not elegant, it kept the machines running.
Why Language Localization Matters
Language barriers in heavy equipment aren’t just inconvenient—they can be dangerous. Misinterpreting a hydraulic fault warning or ignoring a maintenance alert due to unreadable text can lead to breakdowns or safety incidents. In 2019, a construction site in Dhaka reported a hydraulic line rupture on a Japanese-imported excavator. The warning had appeared days earlier, but the operator didn’t understand the message. Fortunately, no one was injured, but the downtime cost the company over $4,000.
Recommendations for Operators and Buyers
- Before Purchase
Always verify the language of the monitor system. Ask the seller for photos or a video walkthrough of the interface.
- After Purchase
If the machine is in Japanese, consider creating a reference guide with translated alerts and button functions. Collaborate with local mechanics who have experience with similar imports.
- Long-Term Strategy
Advocate for regional dealers to offer firmware updates or monitor swaps. As demand grows, manufacturers may respond with better localization support.
While changing the language on a Sumitomo SH120 excavator is not officially supported, creative field solutions and OEM part swaps offer partial workarounds. The issue highlights a broader challenge in global equipment trade: the need for better localization and operator support. As more machines cross borders, ensuring that operators can safely and effectively use them—regardless of language—should be a priority for manufacturers and dealers alike.
