Thread Rating:
  • 0 Vote(s) - 0 Average
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
Komatsu 220-8 Excavator User Review: Efficient, Durable, but with Some Minor Issues
#1
The Komatsu 220-8 excavator, a flagship model in Komatsu's product line, is well-known for its reliability and performance. Today, we'll hear from a seasoned user who shares their real-world experience with this machine, providing valuable insights into its strengths and weaknesses.
Purchase Background and Initial Use
In 2009, the user’s company took on a slope treatment project in Gansu. To meet the project’s needs, in addition to an existing Komatsu 240 excavator, they decided to purchase a Komatsu 220-8 directly from Xi’an. The machine weighs 23 tons and comes with a 1.3m³ bucket. Now, with 6278 operating hours on the clock, the machine still runs well, showing no signs of oil leakage. It’s worth mentioning that, in the first 5500 hours of operation, the machine was used exclusively for light tasks, with no stone work, thanks to a highly skilled operator who was meticulous with maintenance and care.
Advantages: High Efficiency and Adaptability
  • Bucket and Work Efficiency
    Despite being labeled as the 220 model, the machine was fitted with a 1.3m³ bucket, 0.3m³ larger than the standard. The larger bucket did not affect its speed at all. In fact, the user found that the 220-8 was consistently faster than the Komatsu 240 with the same-sized bucket, making it highly efficient for loading tasks.
  • Excellent Environmental Adaptability
    One notable example of the 220-8's adaptability came during the winter when the site was unable to source #10 diesel and had to use #0 diesel instead. While five excavators were in operation—two Komatsu machines and three domestic brands—the 220-8 was the only one that could consistently perform, even in cold temperatures. Despite using the same diesel, the 220-8 started up quickly and continued to operate, showcasing its excellent performance in extreme conditions.
  • Cost-Effectiveness
    From a cost perspective, the Komatsu 220-8 is not only more affordable than the 240, but it also holds better resale value in the second-hand market. The fuel consumption is lower than the 240, yet the 220-8’s work performance is equally impressive, making it a great choice for users seeking efficiency and economy.
Disadvantages: Minor Issues Affecting the User Experience
  • Water Reservoir Problem
    One issue the user noted was the quick depletion of water in the machine's water reservoir. Every four to five days, it needed to be refilled with a bottle of mineral water. Despite multiple repairs, this issue persisted, making it a recurring problem.
  • Air Conditioning and Door Seal Issues
    The air conditioning in the cab is not very effective, with low airflow and poor cooling performance. Even after recharging the refrigerant, the issue persisted. Additionally, after a rollover incident, the door seals no longer functioned properly, causing dirt to accumulate in the cab at the end of each workday. While this did not impact the machine’s ability to function, it did reduce overall comfort.
After-Sales Service: Worth Noting
While the Komatsu 220-8 does have some minor issues, its after-sales service is highly commendable. Last June, the user had to leave the worksite due to personal reasons, and a Komatsu 240 excavator rolled over. Although the machine was out of warranty, the user was able to rely on the strong relationship between their company and Komatsu’s Xi'an headquarters. Within 24 hours, a professional service team arrived on-site, performed a full inspection, and replaced all necessary fluids. The swift and thorough service ensured that the machine was back in operation in no time, highlighting Komatsu's commitment to customer satisfaction.
Conclusion:
Overall, the Komatsu 220-8 excavator is an excellent choice for projects that require high efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Despite some minor issues such as water reservoir depletion and air conditioning inefficiency, the machine performs exceptionally well in most working conditions. Its strong performance, adaptability to various environments, and outstanding after-sales support make the Komatsu 220-8 a reliable and valuable asset for any construction site.
Reply


Possibly Related Threads…
Thread Author Replies Views Last Post
  Komatsu D155X-6: A Comprehensive Overview MikePhua 0 3 8 minutes ago
Last Post: MikePhua
  Glow Plug Control Issues on the CAT 301.7D CR Excavator MikePhua 0 3 13 minutes ago
Last Post: MikePhua
  Ford 555B Backhoe: Overview, Issues, and Maintenance Insights MikePhua 0 1 17 minutes ago
Last Post: MikePhua
  Why Is There No Heat in a 2013 John Deere 135D Excavator MikePhua 0 1 19 minutes ago
Last Post: MikePhua
  Understanding the Case 70 XT Skid Steer: Features, Maintenance, and Common Issues MikePhua 0 3 21 minutes ago
Last Post: MikePhua
  Komatsu 700H Dozer: An Overview of Performance, Issues, and Maintenance MikePhua 0 6 37 minutes ago
Last Post: MikePhua
  Volvo EC210B Excavator Training and Operational Mastery MikePhua 0 4 38 minutes ago
Last Post: MikePhua
  Securing a Mini Excavator in a Dump Trailer MikePhua 0 5 38 minutes ago
Last Post: MikePhua
  CAT 325 Excavator on a Landoll Trailer: Considerations and Best Practices MikePhua 0 4 40 minutes ago
Last Post: MikePhua
  Choosing the Right Size and Brand of Excavator MikePhua 0 5 1 hour ago
Last Post: MikePhua
  Komatsu D41E-6 Dozer: A Comprehensive Overview MikePhua 0 4 1 hour ago
Last Post: MikePhua
  CAT 966H vs Komatsu WA470: A Comparative Analysis MikePhua 0 6 1 hour ago
Last Post: MikePhua
  Komatsu PC200LC-6 Excavator Overview MikePhua 0 11 Yesterday, 02:31 PM
Last Post: MikePhua
  Komatsu D39 steering brake adjustment and model lineage MikePhua 0 13 Yesterday, 02:23 PM
Last Post: MikePhua
  Komatsu FD30 forklift remains a quiet workhorse in industrial yards MikePhua 0 11 Yesterday, 02:06 PM
Last Post: MikePhua

Forum Jump:


Users browsing this thread: 1 Guest(s)