Cat M320 wheeled excavator breaks cover

Caterpillar has introduced its new M320 wheeled excavator, replacing the M320F, that the company said offers nine per cent more swing torque than its predecessor to get work done faster.

It features a longer wheelbase for increased operating stability and improved machine ride when tackling various jobs including utility work, trenching and waste handling.

The new M320 is powered by a 174hp Cat C4.4 engine that meets EU Stage V and U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final emissions standards. Standard features include a one-touch low idle with automatic engine speed control, auto engine idle shutdown and on-demand electric cooling fans, which all combine to help lower operating costs, Caterpillar said.

Capable of running up to B20 biodiesel, the machine offers a standard high-ambient temperature capability of 50°C and cold-start capability of -18°C for completing projects in a range of operating environments.

A dedicated swing pump and more advanced hydraulics combine to provide more reliable power and control to the operator, as well as the capability to use the excavator with a wide range of attachments, Caterpillar said. A unique heavy lift mode allows operators to more efficiently handle heavy loads.

Cat unveils next-gen mini excavator series

Cat 36-tonne compact radius excavator surfaces

Cat D4 dozer receives upgrades

Caterpillar has also introduced new, longer-lasting filters on the M320 to help machine owners save up to five per cent in maintenance parts. The company said its new filters offer a 50 per cent longer service life than previous filter designs.

The new hydraulic oil filter with anti-drain valves prevents the oil from being contaminated during replacement, which in turn delivers improved filtration performance and an improved 3000-hour replacement interval, Caterpillar said.

All daily maintenance points can be quickly and safely assessed from ground level. The M320 also has centralised grease points with an automatic lubrication system available as an option for the implement and swing system.

The M320 comes with Standard Product Link technology that keeps a record of key machine information and statistics including hours, fuel usage and maintenance requirements so fleet owners or operators can keep track of their machine’s performance at all times.  

A new Remote Troubleshoot function allows the dealer to run diagnostic testing of fault codes from the office while the machine is operating, potentially saving a trip to the jobsite.

The M320 comes with larger Next Gen cabs in two configurations - Deluxe and Premium. All controls are positioned in front of the operator within easy reach.

The machine can be started in several ways: via pushbutton start; a Bluetooth® key fob; or the unique Operator ID function. Each operator can preset and store their own preferred machine settings using Operator ID, and the excavator remembers those settings each time the operator logs in.

Operators can access all machine operating parameters and functions on the new 10-inch monitor in the cab either via the touchscreen or an easy-to-use jog dial function. The cab also features all-day climate comfort, and operators can adjust the settings to suit their own needs via the touchscreen monitor.

Advanced viscous mounts on the M320 cab help to reduce machine vibration and operator fatigue. Reducing the number of actions required by the operator, auto axle lock detects when the service brake and axle need to be locked or unlocked, and it releases automatically when the operator presses the travel pedal.

Visibility around the jobsite is improved with the large cab windows and small pillars on the cab, alongside standard rearview and right-side cameras. An optional 360? visibility feature combines input from multiple cameras around the machine to give operators an unparalleled view of their surroundings. The excavator’s new flat engine hood design also improves visibility.

Visit cat.com.au for more information on the new M320 wheeled excavator.