About · Komatsu PC228Overview
The Komatsu PC228 is a conventional-tail 23-tonne class hydraulic excavator positioned in the upper range of the mid-size segment. It is powered by a 156 hp engine and carries a bucket capacity of 0.97 m3, giving it a practical balance between reach, lift capacity, and fuel consumption that suits both infrastructure and general earthmoving work. At an operating weight of 23,380 kg, the machine sits in a well-established size class served by multiple competing OEMs, making it a frequently traded unit in the used-equipment market.
Typical applicationsWhere this machine is used
The 23-tonne excavator class is commonly deployed in road construction, utility trenching, site preparation, and bulk earthmoving where a larger machine would be uneconomical or impractical to mobilise. The PC228 bucket capacity of 0.97 m3 suits general grading and loading cycles on mixed material sites. It is also regularly used in civil infrastructure projects where crane-assist or demolition attachments are required, given the hydraulic flow and machine weight that this class supports.
Used-market inspectionWhat to check before buying
Inspection of any 23-tonne hydraulic excavator should begin with a thorough undercarriage assessment, as track components, rollers, and sprockets represent a significant share of lifecycle cost on machines in this weight class. Hydraulic system condition, including pump output, cylinder seals, and hose integrity, warrants close attention given the operating pressures involved. Buyers should request full service records and verify that scheduled fluid changes and filter replacements have been completed to manufacturer intervals. Engine condition should be assessed through oil analysis if available, alongside a visual check for coolant contamination and exhaust smoke under load. For machines with auxiliary hydraulic circuits, confirm that valving and flow rates are correctly configured for intended attachment use. Structural inspection of the boom, arm, and slew ring for cracks or abnormal wear is advisable before any purchase decision, particularly on units that have been deployed in demolition or rock-breaking applications.
Current marketPrice position
The Komatsu PC228 competes directly with the Caterpillar 323 and the Caterpillar 321 in the used-equipment market. The Caterpillar 323 is the closest weight-class rival and is frequently cross-shopped on the basis of dealer support networks and residual parts availability, while the lighter Caterpillar 321 appeals to buyers seeking a marginally more mobile footprint at some reduction in outright digging capacity. Within the PC228 segment, machine hours, overall condition, and undercarriage wear are the primary attributes that move a unit within its price band. Configuration also plays a meaningful role, with long-reach booms, quick-couplers, and additional hydraulic lines for auxiliary attachments each adding to perceived utility and therefore to relative positioning. Service documentation and the presence of a verified maintenance history further influence where a particular unit sits against comparable listings.
