Komatsu celebrates 40 years of North American manufacturing

Komatsu restores a special wheel loader

Outside the factory, Komatsu has installed a new tribute to its history in Chattanooga. The restored WA450-1 wheel loader, known as the “Ochi Loader,” was originally built in 1988. According to Komatsu, this machine was closely associated with CMO’s first Japanese general manager, Mr. Shohei Ochi.

As part of its dedication, Komatsu says, “Mr. Ochi was known to operate the loader throughout the facility, personally observing operations and ensuring adherence to 5S, a key part of Komatsu’s foundational safety framework. He routinely used the machine to reposition materials and maintain yard organization, including clearing snow to prevent weather-related shutdowns.”

The loader was later transferred to another Chattanooga manufacturer that produced excavator counterweights in partnership with Komatsu. It remained in service at that facility from the early 1990s through 2025, when it was returned to CMO for restoration and permanent display.

“For 40 years, our Chattanooga plant has demonstrated what can be achieved when talented people are committed to quality, innovation, and continuous improvement,” said Rod Bull, CEO, Komatsu North America. “Reaching 60,000 excavators is an incredible milestone, but what makes Chattanooga truly special is the generations of employees whose dedication has helped build Komatsu’s reputation with customers across North America.”