Komatsu D32P Dozer Field Performance and Restoration Insights

[MikePhua]

The D32P and Komatsu’s Mid-Size Dozer Legacy
The Komatsu D32P is part of the company’s long-standing D-series dozer lineup, designed to serve mid-range grading, clearing, and site preparation tasks. Komatsu, founded in 1921 in Japan, became a global leader in earthmoving equipment by the 1970s, competing directly with Caterpillar in the dozer segment. The D32P was introduced as a low-ground-pressure variant, with wide tracks and a lighter footprint, making it ideal for soft terrain, forestry work, and swampy conditions.
With an operating weight around 16,000 lbs and a blade capacity of roughly 2.5 cubic yards, the D32P was engineered for maneuverability and stability. Its powertrain typically featured a Komatsu-built diesel engine paired with a powershift transmission and torque converter, offering three forward and reverse speeds. Though not as electronically advanced as modern machines, the D32P earned a reputation for mechanical reliability and ease of field repair.
Undercarriage and Track System Characteristics
The D32P’s low-ground-pressure design relies on wide track shoes—often 24 inches or more—to distribute weight and reduce soil compaction. This configuration is especially useful in wet or unstable environments but comes with trade-offs in turning radius and transport width.
Key undercarriage components include:

• Track chains with sealed and lubricated pins
  
• Carrier rollers and double-flanged bottom rollers
  
• Spring-loaded recoil assemblies
  
• Track adjusters with grease-type tensioning
  

Common wear points:

• Sprocket teeth and bushings
  
• Roller seals and bearings
  
• Track shoe bolts and pads
  
• Idler alignment and bearing wear
  

A contractor in Alberta used a D32P to clear peat bogs for a rural road project. The machine’s wide tracks allowed it to float over saturated ground where heavier dozers sank. After 1,200 hours, he replaced the track chains and sprockets, noting minimal wear on the rollers due to consistent greasing.
Engine and Hydraulic System Overview
The D32P typically runs on a Komatsu 4D95 engine—a naturally aspirated four-cylinder diesel producing around 75 horsepower. While modest by today’s standards, this engine delivers ample torque for grading and light pushing tasks.
Engine features:

• Mechanical fuel injection
  
• Dry-type air filter with pre-cleaner
  
• Belt-driven cooling fan
  
• Manual throttle and governor linkage
  

Hydraulic system:

• Gear-type pump with open-center flow
  
• Blade lift, tilt, and angle cylinders
  
• Reservoir capacity around 10 gallons
  
• Filtered return line and suction strainer
  

Maintenance tips:

• Change engine oil every 250 hours
  
• Replace hydraulic filters every 500 hours
  
• Inspect fuel lines and banjo bolts for leaks
  
• Clean radiator fins and pre-cleaner weekly in dusty conditions
  

A restorer in Chile rebuilt a D32P’s injection pump after noticing hard starts and fuel knock. He sourced parts from a Komatsu salvage yard and re-timed the pump using a dial indicator. The engine returned to smooth operation and passed a compression test with all cylinders above 350 PSI.
Blade Control and Operator Ergonomics
The D32P is equipped with a six-way PAT (Power Angle Tilt) blade, allowing for versatile grading and shaping. Blade control is manual via pilot-operated levers, with hydraulic assist for lift, tilt, and angle functions.
Blade specs:

• Width: approximately 8 feet
  
• Height: around 30 inches
  
• Cutting edge: replaceable bolt-on segments
  
• Tilt range: ±15 degrees
  
• Angle range: ±25 degrees
  

Operator station:

• Open ROPS or optional cab
  
• Mechanical seat suspension
  
• Analog gauges for temperature, oil pressure, and fuel
  
• Foot pedals for steering clutches and brakes
  
• Hand throttle and gear selector lever
  

A technician in Texas added LED work lights and a custom seat to his D32P, improving night visibility and reducing operator fatigue during long grading shifts.
Common Issues and Restoration Solutions
As with any older dozer, the D32P may develop age-related problems. Frequent issues include:

• Steering clutch slippage due to worn discs or weak springs
  
• Hydraulic leaks at cylinder seals or hose crimps
  
• Electrical faults in starter solenoid or charging system
  
• Blade drift from internal cylinder bypass
  

Solutions:

• Rebuild steering clutches with OEM or aftermarket kits
  
• Replace hydraulic hoses with double-braided lines
  
• Upgrade alternator to higher output model
  
• Hone cylinders and install new seal kits during blade overhaul
  

A fleet manager in Ontario restored a D32P for use in a landfill expansion. He replaced the steering clutch packs, rebuilt the blade cylinders, and added a battery disconnect switch to prevent parasitic drain. The machine performed reliably for over 1,500 hours before its next major service.
Conclusion and Recommendations
The Komatsu D32P remains a capable and dependable dozer for light-to-medium duty work, especially in soft terrain. Its mechanical simplicity, wide track design, and versatile blade make it a favorite among operators who value hands-on control and field serviceability.
Recommendations include:

• Maintain undercarriage with regular greasing and tension checks
  
• Use OEM-spec fluids and filters for engine and hydraulics
  
• Monitor blade cylinder seals and steering clutch performance
  
• Document service intervals and component replacements
  
• Retrofit lighting and comfort upgrades for modern usability
  

With proper care and thoughtful restoration, the D32P continues to push, grade, and shape with the resilience that defines Komatsu’s legacy in earthmoving equipment.