Komatsu PC60-8 Usage Report After 570 Hours: Compact Yet Powerful

[MikePhua]

The Komatsu PC60-8 is a compact excavator introduced by Komatsu in 2011, and it made its debut at the Beijing BICES construction machinery exhibition that year. Positioned between the PC56-7 and PC70-8 models, the PC60-8 is ideal for earthworks. It features the high-power SAA4D95LE turbocharged engine, combining a small footprint with powerful performance, improved combustion, and excellent thermal efficiency.
Komatsu PC60-8 Key Specifications

• Engine Model: Komatsu SAA4D95LE-5
  
• Rated Power: 55PS (40.7kW)
  
• Operating Weight: 6180kg
  
• Max Travel Speed (High): 4.5 km/h
  
• Max Digging Depth: 3900mm
  
• Bucket Digging Force (Max): 5590Kgf
  
• Arm Digging Force (Max): 4060Kgf
  
• Max Digging Radius: 6190mm
  

User Report: 570 Hours with the Komatsu PC60-8
User "HappyHunter" purchased the PC60-8 early in 2012, after using a Komatsu PC60-7 for nearly three years. Their decision to buy the new PC60-8 was driven by trust in the Komatsu brand. The total cost of the machine was 510,000 CNY, financed through a down payment and loan.
After 570 hours of usage, here’s what "HappyHunter" had to say about the Komatsu PC60-8:
Pros:

1. Appearance & Comfort
   "HappyHunter" is very satisfied with the appearance of the Komatsu PC60-8. The cab offers ample space and the seat is comfortable, making the overall driving experience quite enjoyable.
   
2. Toolbox Design
   The PC60-8’s toolbox is convenient, though it’s a bit small—just enough space to fit one grease bucket. Despite its small size, it proves to be a practical feature.
   
3. Bucket Size
   The machine comes with a 0.3m³ rock bucket. While this bucket felt a bit oversized for most of the earthworks tasks, "HappyHunter" had initially wanted to switch to a different bucket but couldn't as the sales company did not have the compatible earthworks bucket available.
   
4. Walking Performance
   The walking performance varies in different modes. In “turtle mode,” when the throttle is at six, turning can feel a bit difficult. In “rabbit mode,” however, a seven-speed throttle is necessary to achieve the desired walking speed. Compared to the PC60-7, the PC60-8’s walking speed isn’t as quick.
   

Cons:

1. Paint Quality Issue
   Although "HappyHunter" takes good care of the machine, he noticed the paint started bubbling on the rear of the machine after just 500 hours. This raises concerns about the durability of the paint job.
   
2. Fuel Consumption
   While the PC60-8 delivers solid performance, its fuel consumption is higher than the previous PC60-7 model. "HappyHunter" measured that the fuel tank capacity is smaller, and the fuel consumption is noticeably higher.
   
3. Joystick Feedback
   In the EO standard mode, using six throttle settings makes the joystick feel heavy. In the P power mode, however, the joystick feels lighter with the same throttle setting. This discrepancy might affect the precision and comfort of operations.
   
4. Rotation Speed and Force
   While the PC60-8’s power is impressive, its rotation speed is somewhat slow. The response time for compound actions is quick, but overall, it feels less agile compared to other models in its class.
   

Conclusion:
Overall, the Komatsu PC60-8 strikes a good balance between performance and compactness, making it a great choice for earthworks. Its powerful engine and spacious cab contribute to a comfortable and efficient operating experience. However, there are a few drawbacks, including issues with paint quality and higher fuel consumption compared to the PC60-7. While the machine performs well, improvements in fuel efficiency and durability would make the PC60-8 even more competitive. For users seeking reliability and power in a small form factor, the PC60-8 remains a solid choice, though there are areas for improvement.