Komatsu D51EXi - Review
At Sy-Con Excavation & Utilities, we’ve been running the Komatsu D51EXi Dozer for over a year and a half now, and we’re here to break down whether this high-tech machine is worth the investment. The D51EXi isn't just your standard dozer—it’s equipped with intelligent machine control (iMC) and is designed to push productivity to new heights. But with the hefty price tag, is it truly the game-changer it promises to be? Let’s dive into the features, challenges, and real-world performance.
GPS Integration: Game Changer for Efficiency
The Komatsu D51EXi Dozer stands out for its GPS integration, and we’ve seen first-hand how it impacts efficiency. Unlike other models that rely on external GPS systems like Trimble or Leica, this machine has a fully integrated, mastless GPS system. No poles waving around on the blade, no extra equipment to worry about—it’s all built-in.
One of the major advantages of this feature is the ability to build surfaces as you work. On our jobs, like when we’re cutting taxi lanes or working on residential driveways, Sam, our operator, can drive the dozer across the site and the machine collects 32 different points of data—no need for someone to walk the site or set up additional equipment. This saves us both time and money, allowing us to verify the existing ground conditions against the engineer's plans on the fly.
The Learning Curve
We’ll be straight with you—the first six months with the D51EXi were frustrating. There was a learning curve, especially when it came to understanding the full capabilities of the GPS integration. But once Sam, our operator, spent time mastering the system, it became clear that this dozer was a whole different animal. This machine can go from grading a steep driveway to handling a large-scale airport project seamlessly.
Rippers: A Must-Have
If you’re looking to buy a new dozer, make sure it comes with rippers. We’ve found that having rippers on our Komatsu allows us to rip and push at the same time—saving us a ton of time on site prep. Whether we’re dealing with compacted ground or needing to fluff up soil for compaction, the rippers have been a game-changer.
Addressing GPS Radio Interference
One issue we did run into was GPS radio interference. We noticed some dead spots while working on site, which affected the dozer’s GPS performance. Thankfully, with the help of Power Equipment, our local Komatsu dealer, we were able to get the right radio installed and solve the problem. This kind of troubleshooting is critical when working with high-tech machinery, but once fixed, the machine runs smoother than ever.
Operator Comfort and Visibility
The Komatsu D51EXi’s operator cab offers unparalleled visibility, giving our guys a clear view of the site, which improves both efficiency and safety. Sam’s cab stays spotless, and the tinted windows help keep the interior cool while protecting the seat and dashboard from sun damage. It’s these small details that make a big difference when you're spending hours on the job.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth the Investment?
Absolutely. After a year and a half of using the Komatsu D51EXi Dozer, we’d buy it again in a heartbeat. The combination of fully integrated GPS, auto-hydraulic control, and operator-friendly design makes it a must-have for any serious excavation business. The price may seem steep at first, but the efficiency gains and reduced labor costs more than make up for it.
If you’re looking to take your site work to the next level, the D51EXi is the machine to get. It’s an investment that will pay off in productivity, accuracy, and ease of use—just be prepared for a bit of a learning curve!
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