New Gear Harvesting New Gear
Komatsu’s new forwarder line-up

March 2, 2017 - Komatsu America Corp. has announced a completely new line of EPA Tier 4 Final certified forwarders. This new 845, 855, 875 and 895 lineup provides increased performance, productivity, operator comfort and convenience, and serviceability, compared to the prior 855.1, 865 and 895 Tier 4 Interim models. The 845 is a new, additional model which competes in the 12 metric ton payload class.

Performance and Productivity

Rated payload capacities for the 845, 855, 875 and 895 are 12, 14, 16 and 20 metric tons, respectively, and provide broad market coverage. The 875 model is in a unique size class, compared to competitors, who have either 15 or 18 metric ton capacity.

These EPA Tier 4 Final certified engines provide 9 per cent to 15 per cent more horsepower and lower fuel consumption, compared to the prior models. In addition, they also produce 9 per cent more engine torque on the 875 and 895 models.             

Along with the increased horsepower, these engines also feature high torque backup, high capacity cooling systems and lower noise levels, for high performance and productivity.

Rough terrain capability has been significantly improved with larger hydrostatic transmission (HST) pumps and/or motors producing 3 per cent - 11 per cent higher tractive effort. The intelligent HST control unit continually responds to changes in terrain, load, engine power output and crane usage. This HST combines with the proven Komatsu Comfort Bogie system with high portal offset, 42º articulated steering, over 1” higher ground clearance, and V-shaped, high-strength, steel-frame bottom, to create the ideal combination of traction, speed, maneuverability and comfort in all driving conditions. A new, front blade arm design improves front-end ground clearance.

The rugged, updated Komatsu F-series family of parallel cranes feature high lifting and slewing torque for productivity.  The 875 has 14 per cent more lifting torque and 32 per cent more slewing torque, and the 895 has best-in-class lifting and slewing torque. Komatsu’s exclusive ProTec system provides excellent grapple hose protection for increased reliability.

The new, more robust FlexBunk system, with multiple frame lengths, optimizes the load space to further maximize productivity. The 845 and 895 feature the latest version of Komatsu’s patented rugged FlexGate headboard, which “flexes” when hit by the crane or log. The 855 & 875 use Komatsu’s fixed headboard with hydraulic telescopic upper gate.

Operator Comfort & Convenience

A modern cab serves as the centre point for operator comfort and convenience. Large windows offer 360° and upward/downward line-of-sight visibility, providing the operator with a widescreen working view. Fourteen (14) powerful LED working lights provide illumination, for improved productivity in low light conditions.

An air suspension, air-vented seat, fully adjustable ergonomic armrests and hand controls, and an automatic, four-season climate control system, keep the operator comfortable in all working conditions. The spacious cab has multiple covered and open storage areas, including separate heating/cooling boxes for food and beverages in the 855, 875 and 895 (optional on the 845).  The Komatsu Comfort Ride hydraulic cab suspension system option on the 855, 875 and 895 greatly reduces operator fatigue, due its smooth-ride characteristics.

A new, more powerful computer and Komatsu’s advanced MaxiXplorer control and information system allows the operator to track production, adjust machine settings, and track machine functions and status.  A deluxe AM/FM/CD/MP3 stereo system, with remote control, USB, Bluetooth, SiriusXM capability and handsfree microphone, comes standard. 

Serviceability

All daily maintenance checks and service points can be performed at ground level. All filters are now vertically mounted to minimize spills and ease replacement. The electrically-actuated engine hood tilts 90° to provide full engine access and serves as a work platform (manually-actuated hood on 845).  Separate hydraulic tank and crane service platforms allow easy access to these component areas. Eight (8) service hatches under the front and rear frames provide excellent drivetrain component access.

March 2, 2017  By Komatsu

The new Komatsu 855 14 metric ton capacity class Forwarder has 12 per cent more horsepower. Photo:Komatsu