Kobelco
Frequently Asked Questions about Kobelco Excavator
The operating weight of a Used Kobelco SK350 Excavator typically ranges from 33,500 kg to 35,200 kg (73,850 – 77,600 lbs), depending on configuration (e.g., long arm, heavy-duty counterweight, or additional guarding).
For the standard SK350LC-10 model, the weight is approximately 34,200 kg (75,400 lbs).
This weight places it firmly in the 35-ton class, making it suitable for medium-to-large quarrying, bulk earthmoving, and road construction projects. Always check the serial plate, as older series (e.g., -6E, -8) may be slightly lighter (around 33,000 kg).
A Used Kobelco SK350 (typically with the HINO J08E or Isuzu AH-6HK1X engine) consumes between 22 to 28 liters per hour (5.8 – 7.4 gal/h) under normal digging conditions.
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Light duty (truck loading): ~22 L/h
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Standard excavation (90° swing): ~25 L/h
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Heavy/rock digging: ~28 L/h
Compared to competitors like the Cat 336 or Komatsu PC350, the SK350 is known for 5–10% better fuel efficiency due to Kobelco’s ITCS (Intelligent Total Control System) hydraulics, which reduces flow loss.
Tip for buyers: Fuel consumption on used machines can rise 10–15% if the hydraulic pump or injectors are worn – always request a consumption test.
For a Used Kobelco SK350 Excavator equipped with a standard 6.5m (21 ft 4 in) arm, the key specs are:
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Max digging depth: 7.38 m (24 ft 2 in)
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Max reach at ground level: 11.07 m (36 ft 4 in)
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Max dumping height: 7.27 m (23 ft 10 in)
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Bucket digging force (ISO): 227 kN (51,000 lbf)
With a long arm (7.0m / 23 ft) – common on used SK350s used for canal or slope work – depth increases to approximately 8.0 m (26 ft 3 in).
These specs make it ideal for basement excavation, river dredging, and deep utility trenching.
When inspecting a Used Kobelco SK350, focus on these high-failure areas (data from 500+ used equipment inspections):
| Component | Common issue | Observed failure rate after 8,000 hrs |
|---|---|---|
| Swing bearing | Radial play >3mm | ~35% |
| Track adjuster | Grease leakage | ~40% |
| Hydraulic main pump | Decreased flow (<420 L/min) | ~25% |
| Boom foot bushings | Excessive clearance (>2mm) | ~50% |
Must-check:
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Undercarriage wear: 25–30% remaining life is typical at 10,000 hrs.
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Turntable bearing grease purge: Look for rusty seepage – indicates seal failure.
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ITCS solenoid valves: Sticking solenoids cause slow attachment response.
*Recommendation: Always perform a hydraulic oil sample test (ISO 4406 code 18/16/13 or cleaner is acceptable for a used machine).*
A Used Kobelco SK350 with 8,000–10,000 operating hours retains approximately 35–42% of its original list price (original new: ~$280,000–$310,000).
Typical market prices (2025 data, export-ready condition):
| Hours range | Price range (USD) | Regional demand |
|---|---|---|
| 6,000 – 8,000 hrs | $85,000 – $105,000 | Middle East, Africa |
| 8,000 – 10,000 hrs | $65,000 – $80,000 | SE Asia, South America |
| 10,000 – 12,000 hrs | $45,000 – $60,000 | Domestic / Local use |
Depreciation drivers:
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Kobelco SK350 holds value better than Hyundai/Doosan but slightly less than Cat or Komatsu (about 5–7% less after 8k hrs).
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Machines with full service records and new undercarriage can command a $10k–15k premium.
*Insight: The SK350LC-10 model (Tier 4 Final) resells faster than older -8 series due to lower emission restrictions in Europe/Japan re-export markets.*
