09-14-2025, 06:13 PM
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:
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:
Other Areas to Inspect Before Purchase
Beyond the hydraulic system, buyers should evaluate:
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:
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:
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.
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
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
- 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
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
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
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
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.
