Used Komatsu 78Excavator

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The Komatsu PC78 is a mini excavator in the 7–8 ton class, widely used for utility, landscaping, road construction, and tight-space operations. It is known for its compact size, fuel efficiency, and versatility.

📌 1. MODEL VARIANTS

Model	Type	Key Feature
PC78US-6	Standard (US Spec)	Short boom, popular in North America
PC78USLC-6	Long Counterweight	Extra stability for heavy work
PC78UU-6	Zero Tail Swing	No rear overhang — ideal for urban/tight spaces
PC78MR-6	European/Global Spec	Compliant with EU emission standards

📌 2. ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS

Parameter	Details
Engine Model	Komatsu SAA4D107E-3 / SAA4D107E-5
Type	4-cylinder, turbocharged, intercooled diesel
Displacement	3.312 L
Rated Power	40.4 kW (54.2 hp) @ 2,200 rpm (US-6)
	43.3 kW (58 hp) @ 2,200 rpm (MR/UU-6)
Emission Standard	Tier 4 Final / Stage V (EU)
Fuel Tank Capacity	~130 L (34.3 US gal)

📌 3. DIMENSIONS & WEIGHT

Parameter	PC78US-6	PC78UU-6 (Zero Tail)
Operating Weight	~7,800 kg (17,196 lbs)	~8,200 kg (18,078 lbs)
Transport Length	5,990 mm (19.65 ft)	5,970 mm (19.59 ft)
Transport Width	2,190 mm (7.19 ft)	2,190 mm (7.19 ft)
Transport Height	2,640 mm (8.66 ft)	2,560 mm (8.40 ft)
Ground Clearance	380 mm (14.96 in)	380 mm (14.96 in)
Track Width	1,500 mm (4.92 ft)	1,500 mm (4.92 ft)
Tail Swing Radius	1,510 mm (4.95 ft)	0 mm (Zero Tail) ✅

📌 4. DIGGING PERFORMANCE

Parameter	Value
Max Digging Depth	3,990 mm (13.09 ft)
Max Digging Reach	6,680 mm (21.92 ft)
Max Dumping Height	4,770 mm (15.65 ft)
Max Digging Force (Boom)	~36.2 kN (8,138 lbf)
Max Digging Force (Arm)	~25.8 kN (5,800 lbf)
Bucket Capacity	0.12 – 0.28 m³ (0.16 – 0.37 yd³)

📌 5. HYDRAULIC SYSTEM

Parameter	Details
System Type	CLSS (Closed Center Load Sensing)
Main Pump	2 × Variable Displacement Axial Piston Pumps
Max Flow Rate	2 × 90 L/min (47.6 US gpm)
Operating Pressure	34.3 MPa (4,974 psi)
Auxiliary Hydraulic Flow	Yes — for hammers, augers, thumbs

📌 6. KEY FEATURES & TECHNOLOGY

Feature	Description
🖥️ KOMTRAX Ready	Remote machine monitoring & diagnostics
💺 Comfortable Cab	ROPS/FOPS certified, air-conditioned, low noise (~68 dB)
🎛️ LCD Monitor	Multi-function display for machine info
🔧 Easy Maintenance	Ground-level service points, side-opening panels
⚡ Eco Mode	Auto engine speed control to save fuel
🛠️ K-Link System	Compatible with various attachments (breakers, grapples, augers)
🧊 Heated Seat Option	Available for cold-climate operations

📌 7. COMMON ATTACHMENTS

Attachment	Use Case
🪣 Standard Bucket	General digging
🔨 Hydraulic Breaker	Demolition, rock breaking
🔩 Auger	Post holes, piling
🤏 Thumb	Material handling, grab
🪚 Rake	Landscaping, grading
📦 Tilt Rotator	Versatile positioning
🪓 Grapple	Scrap handling, forestry

📌 8. APPLICATIONS

✅ Sector	Use
🏗️ Construction	Trench digging, foundation work
🌳 Landscaping	Tree planting, grading, utilities
🛣️ Road Work	Pipe laying, curb work
🏚️ Demolition	Small structure tear-down
🏠 Residential	Backyard projects, septic work
🌾 Agriculture	Drainage, fence post holes

📌 9. ADVANTAGES vs COMPETITORS

✅ Advantage	Details
📉 Low Fuel Consumption	~6–8 L/hr (1.6–2.1 gal/hr)
📐 Compact Size	Fits through standard gates, narrow alleys
🔄 Zero Tail Swing (UU)	Works close to walls/buildings
💪 Reliable Engine	Komatsu SAA4D107 — proven durability
💰 Low Operating Cost	Easy maintenance, long service intervals (500 hr)
🌐 Resale Value	High — Komatsu brand holds value well

📌 10. COMPETITORS

Machine	Weight	Power
CAT 308 CR	8,450 kg	57 hp
John Deere 75G	8,110 kg	51.4 hp
Kubota KX080-4	8,070 kg	55.4 hp
Doosan DX80R-7	8,200 kg	58 hp
Volvo ECR88D	8,400 kg	57 hp

📊 QUICK SUMMARY

	PC78US-6	PC78UU-6
Weight	7,800 kg	8,200 kg
Power	54.2 hp	58 hp
Tail Swing	1,510 mm	Zero ✅
Best For	General use	Urban/tight spaces
Price (Approx.)	$55,000–$70,000	$65,000–$80,000

🎯 CONCLUSION

The Komatsu PC78 is one of the best-selling mini excavators in the 7–8 ton class, offering an excellent balance of power, compactness, fuel efficiency, and reliability. The zero tail swing (PC78UU-6) variant is especially popular in urban construction and landscaping where space is limited. With Komatsu's strong dealer network and KOMTRAX telematics, it's a smart investment for contractors of all sizes.

Would you like more details on any specific variant, pricing, or comparison with a particular competitor? 🚜