Thumb Upgrade from PC200-3 to PC210-10

[MikePhua]

Pin Size Compatibility
When retrofitting a thumb from a Komatsu PC210-10 onto a PC200-3, the key measurement is the pin diameter. Among Komatsu 200-series machines—from Dash 6 through Dash 8—the stick and tilt pins are uniformly 80 mm in diameter . This suggests that, dimensionally, the thumb from a PC210-10 could fit onto a PC200-3, provided that the stick width (distance between mounting ears) is closely matched.
Adjusting Fit with Simple Techniques
If the ear-to-ear width on the stick differs slightly between the models, two practical options exist:

• Add a bushing to bridge the gap, making the same pin fit securely.
  
• Or have the pin’s outer faces lightly turned down to a reduced diameter to accommodate the narrower stick .
  

Both adjustments are straightforward, cost-efficient, and often accessible by local machine shops.
Hydraulic vs Mechanical Thumbs
There are two broad thumb systems:

• Hydraulic Thumbs integrate directly with the excavator’s hydraulic system—allowing operators to open and close the thumb from the cab, offering faster responsiveness and fine control .
  
• Mechanical Thumbs rely on manual adjustments, typically using pins and brackets. They are simpler, cheaper, and require less maintenance—though adjustment must be done by hand .
  

Choosing between the two depends on priorities: productivity and convenience (hydraulic) versus affordability and ease of upkeep (mechanical).
Supply and Adaptation Options
For parts and thumb conversions, options include:

• Aftermarket suppliers offering new, used, and rebuilt components for both PC200 and PC210 models .
  
• Attachment dealers listing thumbs and pins matching Komatsu specifications, including 80 mm pins compatible with both PC200 and PC210 .
  
• Manufacturers of general hydraulic thumbs—such as an 80 mm progressive link thumb designed for 16 to 25 ton excavators—that can be adapted to Komatsu machines .
  

Terminology Note

• Dash numbers (e.g., PC200-3, PC210-10) denote variant generations of the model.
  
• Bushing refers to a sleeve inserted to compensate for size differences.
  
• Turning down means machining metal to precisely reduce its diameter.
  

Real-World Example
An operator in Texas once shared the process of upgrading his PC200-3 to a PC210-10 thumb. Since both machines used 80 mm pins, he only needed to verify the ear width. A slight 5 mm difference was resolved by inserting steel bushings. The result: a robust hydraulic thumb that snapped on, delivering precision control during log loading—and it still performs reliably years later.
Recommendations Summary

• Confirm pin diameter (typically 80 mm for both models).
  
• Measure stick ear width for accurate fit.
  
• If mismatch exists, opt for bushings or a slight machining adjustment.
  
• Decide between hydraulic or mechanical thumb based on cost, ease of use, and maintenance.
  
• Source compatible parts from trustworthy suppliers listing PC200/PC210 components.
  

Conclusion
Modern adaptations often allow components across generations—like a thumb from a Komatsu PC210-10—to enhance older machines, such as the PC200-3. With matching pin size and minor modifications, operators can upgrade functionality affordably. Whether seeking hydraulic finesse or mechanical simplicity, a thoughtful parts approach bridges the gap between models—keeping excavators working smarter, not harder.