Evaluating the Komatsu 75UU-2 Excavator as a Budget Purchase

[MikePhua]

The Komatsu 75UU Series and Its Urban Excavation Legacy
The Komatsu 75UU-2 is part of Komatsu’s compact excavator lineup designed specifically for urban and confined-space operations. Komatsu, founded in 1921 in Japan, has long been a global leader in construction machinery, with its hydraulic excavators setting industry benchmarks for durability and innovation. The 75UU series was introduced in the late 1990s and early 2000s, featuring a unique offset boom and zero tail swing design that allowed operators to work close to walls, curbs, and structures without compromising maneuverability.
The 75UU-2 model typically weighs around 7.5 metric tons and is powered by a Komatsu 4D95LE diesel engine producing approximately 55–60 horsepower. Its hydraulic system supports smooth multi-function operation, and the machine is often equipped with rubber tracks, a dozer blade, and auxiliary hydraulic lines for attachments like thumbs or breakers.
Assessing a $6,000 Purchase Price
Finding a Komatsu 75UU-2 listed for $6,000 is rare, especially given its original retail price exceeded $60,000 when new. Such a low price point typically indicates one or more of the following:

• Major mechanical failure (e.g., hydraulic pump, final drive, engine)
  
• Extensive cosmetic or structural wear
  
• Missing or non-functional components
  
• Unverified hours or undocumented service history
  

In this case, the machine was advertised as needing a new hydraulic pump. The hydraulic pump is the heart of the excavator’s operation, responsible for powering the boom, arm, bucket, and travel motors. Replacing it can cost anywhere from $2,500 to $6,000 depending on whether a new, rebuilt, or salvaged unit is used. Labor costs and system flushing add further expense.
Hydraulic Pump Failure and Diagnostic Considerations
Before committing to purchase, it’s essential to verify the nature of the hydraulic failure. Common symptoms of a failing pump include:

• Slow or jerky arm movement
  
• Inability to lift or curl the bucket
  
• Whining or cavitation noise from the pump housing
  
• Excessive heat in hydraulic fluid
  
• Contaminated fluid with metal shavings or discoloration
  

A proper inspection should include:

• Checking hydraulic pressure at test ports
  
• Inspecting suction and return lines for leaks or blockages
  
• Verifying filter condition and bypass valve operation
  
• Reviewing service records for fluid change intervals
  

If the pump has failed due to contamination, other components like control valves and cylinders may also be compromised.
Other Areas to Inspect Before Purchase
Beyond the hydraulic system, buyers should evaluate:

• Track condition and tensioning system
  
• Swing bearing and slew motor operation
  
• Boom and arm bushings for excessive play
  
• Electrical system, including gauges and warning lights
  
• Cab controls and safety interlocks
  
• Engine compression and exhaust smoke
  

A machine that has sat idle for extended periods may suffer from dry seals, corroded connectors, and degraded hoses. Cold starts and travel tests can reveal hidden issues.
Parts Availability and Grey Market Considerations
The 75UU-2 was primarily sold in Japan and imported into North America as a grey market machine. This means it may lack English-language documentation, and parts may differ slightly from domestic Komatsu models. While many components are interchangeable with the PC75 series, some electrical and hydraulic fittings may require adaptation.
Buyers should:

• Confirm serial number and model compatibility with parts suppliers
  
• Use Japanese-to-English parts cross-reference tools
  
• Source parts from reputable importers or salvage yards
  
• Be prepared for longer lead times on specialty components
  

Some operators have successfully rebuilt grey market machines using hybrid parts from multiple Komatsu models, but this requires mechanical expertise and patience.
Field Anecdotes and Budget Excavator Success Stories
A contractor in Manitoba once purchased a Komatsu 75UU-2 for under $7,000, replacing the hydraulic pump with a rebuilt unit sourced from a Tokyo-based supplier. After flushing the system and replacing several hoses, the machine returned to full operation and was used for trenching and landscaping for over five years.
In another case, a landscaper in Oregon acquired a similar unit with a failed swing motor. He retrofitted a motor from a PC75R and adapted the mounting flange using a custom-machined plate. The machine performed reliably for light-duty work and paid for itself within six months.
Recommendations for Buyers Considering Low-Cost Excavators
To make an informed decision:

• Budget at least $5,000–$8,000 for repairs and parts
  
• Perform a full fluid analysis before purchase
  
• Bring a mechanic or technician to inspect key systems
  
• Verify that the machine starts, moves, and responds to controls
  
• Negotiate based on documented faults and missing components
  

If the machine is intended for occasional use or as a backup unit, the investment may be worthwhile. However, for daily commercial operation, reliability and uptime must be weighed against repair costs.
Conclusion
The Komatsu 75UU-2 offers compact power and versatility, especially in urban excavation. At a $6,000 price point, it presents both opportunity and risk. With careful inspection, realistic budgeting, and access to parts, a buyer can transform a non-running unit into a productive machine. For those willing to invest time and effort, the 75UU-2 remains a capable and rewarding excavator—even decades after its debut.