First off I still haven't bought a machine. Been looking for two years. Will probably buy one in the next couple weeks. Looking at several machines, a couple have air conditioned cabs. For my use I don't think it is totally necessary, but for a machine that isn't going to be used on a daily basis is it going to hold up? This machine will be for personal use and may sit for anywhere from a couple of days to a couple of months between use. Thank-you, Paul
I can't speak to the reliability of the ac on a 580, but I can attest to the reliability, and need for it on my Terex 760. On an 80' day, the cab turns into a sauna and the interior temp will quickly exceed 100' without ac or ventilation (windows open and fan on...or doors completely off). Work for a day in a cab without ac or ventilation on a 90' day, and you'll quickly see the need for it (on an erops).
We have had very very few problems with the AC on the 580SM Series 1-3 units. A lot of guys tint the windows to help keep it cooler because there is a lot of glass area. The problem we see most is a dirty cab filter that restricts air flow through the evaporator. Also be sure to shut off the valve at the engine to keep coolant from circulating, turning the cab control off is not enough. Good Luck!
We have had some condenser failures that occour with machines that load salt for municipalities. They usually do'nt clean the grille area and deposits of salt lay in the end loops and eventually eat through, same with oil coolers, these failures always require lines and driers also. Even storing a machine in close proximity to a salt pile will cause paint peeling and worse. Once had a early 580 that the pump bottom was eroded bad enough that the Oring between the center housing and the front endcap was just hanging there, the aluminum was gone! The pump still worked and didn't leak yet. mEl