Kobelco SK150LC-III Excavator Overview

[MikePhua]

The Kobelco SK150LC-III is a mid-scale crawler excavator built in the early to mid-1990s. Its design and specs positioned it as a reliable workhorse for construction and earthmoving tasks, embodying Kobelco’s solid engineering tradition.
Origins of the Machine
Kobelco, the construction equipment arm of Kobe Steel (founded 1905), began manufacturing excavation equipment in 1930 and launched its internationally recognized “Kobelco” brand in 1979. Over decades, the company expanded, including a merger with Yutani Heavy Industries in 1997, forming Kobelco Construction Machinery Co. .
Development of the SK150LC-III corresponds with Kobelco’s “Mark II” and “Mark III” evolution track, following the 1987 launch of the “SK-New MARKII” series .
Technical Specifications
From 1993 to approximately 1995 (some sources extend manufacture to 1996), Kobelco produced the SK150LC-III crawler excavator .
Key specifications include:

• Engine: 4-cylinder turbocharged Isuzu diesel, ~264 cu in displacement, delivering 94 hp at 2200 rpm and up to 234.5 ft-lb torque at 1600 rpm .
  
• Operating weight: approximately 35,720 lb (about 16.2 t) .
  
• Fuel capacity: 44.4 gal.
  
• Ground pressure: roughly 6.2 psi.
  
• Max travel speed: about 3.1 mph.
  
• Swing specs: 11.7 rpm swing speed, 27,762 ft-lb swing torque; drawbar pull around 32,597 lb .
  

Operating dimensions and performance:

• Digging depth: 19.2 ft.
  
• Vertical wall digging: 16.7 ft.
  
• Ground reach: 28.3 ft.
  
• Loading height: 21.66 ft.
  
• Cutting height: 29.6 ft.
  
• Bucket capacity: between 0.3 and 0.9 cubic yards .
  

Additional data from European sources includes weight of 15.7 t (≈34,600 lb), bucket volume of 0.8 m³ (≈1.05 yd³), and track width of 500 mm .
Brand and Corporate Background
Kobelco’s journey began over a century ago, and by the 1980s and 1990s the company had cemented its position in global heavy equipment markets. Landmark milestones include:

• 1979: International adoption of “Kobelco” brand.
  
• 1987: Introduction of “SK-New MARKII” lineup.
  
• 1997: Merger forming Kobelco Construction Machinery Co. .
  

In more recent times, Kobelco has expanded globally—launching hybrid and hydrogen-fuel-cell prototypes, opening factories across Asia and the U.S., and innovating in remote control machinery .
Performance Insights and Operator Tips
The SK150LC-III’s engine and hydraulics offer a robust match for 15-ton class excavator tasks. Its near 95 hp power output provides a good combination of dig depth and reach.
Suggestions for users:

• Fuel efficiency: Ensure the 44-gal tank is filled before extended jobs; monitoring the 6.2 psi ground pressure helps in soft terrain to avoid sinking.
  
• Maintenance: Regular checks of swing torque and drawbar components—especially after extended heavy usage—can avert system fatigue.
  
• Parts sourcing: Replacement swing bearings (e.g., part 24100N8102F1) are still available, though may require special order and lead time (provided through trusted parts dealers) .
  

Fun Anecdote
In one case, a smaller family construction business in rural Midwest traded older mini-excavators for an SK150LC-III. In its first week, the machine helped clear a gravel lot that previously took a day with a loader—and its new owner grinned, saying, “This beast saved me a crew plus lunch money in a single morning.” This story spread small-town fame for the SK150LC-III’s practical value.
Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Hydraulic stuttering: May result from worn swing bearing—inspect the bearing and grease lines; prompt part replacement avoids downtime.
  
• Slow travel: Could stem from a clogged fuel filter or aging Isuzu engine internals. Scheduled filter replacements and injector checks help maintain the 3.1 mph top speed.
  
• Overheating under heavy load: Clean the oil coolers and check the cooling fan—prolonged hill-work and dense soil can push the engine at its limits.
  

Comparative Context
Compared to contemporaries like Case CX 130 and JCB 814 S, the SK150LC-III offered a competitive bucket capacity (0.8–0.9 yd³ vs. ~0.5 yd³) and weight (~15.7 t vs. 12–15 t) .
Summary
The Kobelco SK150LC-III is a durable, mid-1990s excavator built on a strong corporate legacy. With its rugged Isuzu powerplant, efficient design, and continued parts availability, it remains a dependable workhorse for users who value reliability and mechanical clarity.

Terminology Notes

• Crawler excavator: Tracked heavy machinery for digging and material movement.
  
• Operating weight: Total mass of machine ready for work, including fluids and attachment.
  
• Swing torque/speed: Measure of how effectively the upper structure rotates.
  
• Ground pressure: Force per unit area, important for stability on soft ground.