Komatsu America Corp., a leading global heavy equipment manufacturer, has previewed its new XT-5 Series of Track Feller Bunchers. Models include the XT430-5 (non-leveling), XT435L-5, XT445L-5 and XT465L-5, which replace the prior XT-3 Series machines.
The XT-5 Series ranges in operating weight from 66,359 lbs. (30,100 kg) to 74,516 lbs. (33,800 kg) and features a new, more powerful fuel-efficient EPA Tier 4 Final engine, gull-wing style engine hood, increased lift capacity, heavy-duty undercarriage, redesigned and relocated cab, new hydraulic and cooling systems, forestry-specific guarding and KOMTRAX telematics system technology.
“We have been systematically gathering and analyzing voice-of-the-customer input to define our next generation of feller bunchers,” says Mitsuhiro Utsumi, Vice President, Forestry Product Marketing, Komatsu America. “This new XT-5 Series represents the culmination of translating that entire input into feller bunchers which truly meet the needs of today’s demanding loggers. Shipments of the XT445L-5 model will start in the fourth quarter of 2018, with the other models to follow.”
Performance & Productivity
The new 310 peak hp (231 kW), Cummins QSL9 9-L engine provides more horsepower, torque and displacement, and lowers fuel consumption by as much as 10%, due to advanced engine and hydraulic system control designs. Lift capacities at full reach lift have been increased by 77% on the XT430-5, XT435L-5 and XT445L-5, and by 15% on the XT465L-5. The XT465L-5 now readily operates the Quadco 24-in. (610 mm) cutting capacity disc saw heads.
Operator Comfort & Convenience
The state-of-the-art, fully-certified, Komatsu forestry cab has been relocated to the left of the boom for industry commonality. Cab design changes provide superior lines-of-sight to each track. Standard rearview and optional right-side view monitoring systems further enhance the operator’s view. Eleven LED lights provide superior visibility for night operations.
Komatsu’s highly intuitive, IQAN-MD4 digital control system programming allows up to three different operators to program their individual control patterns for increased multi-operator productivity. An IQANsync mobile phone app is available to allow remote access to perform IQAN system functions.
Reliability & Durability
New Komatsu heavy-duty undercarriages significantly increase service life including:
- Rugged, 8.5 in. track chain links, with thicker and stronger bushing strap, to resist "twist"
- New high-density track roller and idler bushing material extends wear cycles
- The XT445L-5 and XT465L-5 have larger track guard roller side openings to minimize mud packing and facilitate cleaning
- The XT465L-5 has nine versus eight rollers for improved load distribution. Track length has been extended to the rear by 5.3 in. (135 mm) for improved steep slope stability
- The XT445L-5 and XT465L-5 have a reduced track slider angle that produces 30% lower contact pressure for reduced wear
- All final drives have a triple labyrinth floating seal housing to protect the seal against mud packing
Larger capacity, hydraulic piston pumps for the implement, attachment and disc saw operate at 500 rpm lower speed, while providing high flow. Each pump has pressurized suction inlets to reduce cavitation risk. Boom, arm and rear hydraulic tubes and hoses have robust forestry-specific guarding that improve protection and shed debris. 
A gull-wing style engine hood to provide an elevated service platform. Four other service doors swing wide for excellent access.
The totally new cooling system features a larger radiator, charge air cooler and a single hydraulic cooler. All coolers have been relocated to the rear of the machine to minimize debris buildup. Separate radiator and hydraulic oil cooler fan controls provide the cooling needed to maintain the required temperatures. Both fans have an auto-reversing function to help purge debris and maintain cooling efficiencies.
Ease of Maintenance
A new gull-wing style engine hood folds down to provide an elevated service work platform. Four other service doors swing wide to provide excellent service access. An innovative new hydraulic tank design features two tanks, which require 55% less total hydraulic oil (a refill requires only 45 gal. = 171 L). The attachment control valve has been relocated from the main control valve to the arm for ease of service.
Komatsu’s exclusive KOMTRAX remote equipment monitoring and management telematics system is standard. It utilizes highly reliable, satellite-based technology to transmit valuable information such as location, utilization and maintenance records to a website. KOMTRAX provides advanced machine troubleshooting capabilities by monitoring machine health and issues caution and abnormality alerts. This information serves as a valuable tool for scheduling preventative maintenance and service. There is no subscription fee for the life of the machine.
