New next-gen Cat mini hydraulic excavators unveiled

With the recent upgrades to the 4-tonne Cat 304 and 5-tonne 305 mini excavators, Caterpillar has completed the migration of all its mini hydraulic excavators to the next-generation platform.

All 20 models in the line-up, ranging from 1.5 to 10 tonnes now offer common features and consistent controls layout to simplify training and operator adaptation.

The new Cat 304 features a new reduced radius design for more versatility and access to confined spaces. It features a narrow, 1700-mm track width that is 254mm slimmer than the 304 E2 predecessor model, Caterpillar says.

While narrower, its reduced radius design allows for greater stability, both 360-degree and when traveling with loads, the company says. An extra counterweight option is available for extra stability.

The Cat 305 CR Excavator has a new engine that Caterpillar says delivers nearly nine per cent greater power than the previous model. The hydraulic system has also been improved to provide higher breakout forces – 49.2 kN bucket, 28.3 kN standard stick and 25.2 kN long stick – to improve digging efficiency in hard rock applications. It also offers 140mm deeper dig depths than the 305 E2, Caterpillar adds.

It has a compact radius swing design that reduces overhang when working to the side, and has a 1980mm track width and extra counterweight option for extra stability and lift performance in confined spaces.

Both excavator models now offer an angle dozer blade option for backfilling and finish grading applications. It offers ample above- and below-grade travel, a standard float function and movement of 45 degrees left or right of center. The angle blade movement is controlled by the right-hand joystick, while the left joystick handles machine drive.

The 304 and 305 excavators are also available with interchangeable counterweight packages that allow operators to tailor machine weight to job requirements.

A U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final and EU Stage V emission standards compliant Cat C1.7 Turbo engine replaces the previous C2.4 engine, offering more power and efficiency, Caterpillar says. Several features such as a standard auto idle, auto engine shutdown and load-sensing hydraulics with variable displacement pump help to lower fuel usage for a more affordable operation.

High main-relief pressures, coupled with flow rates, generates the hydraulic capacity for high digging and lifting forces. The standard auxiliary system comes with quick-disconnect lines, and comes in one-way, two-way or continuous flow.

Most Cat next-generation mini hydraulic excavators come with a sealed and pressurized cab enclosure with heating and/or air conditioning. The cab’s large glass areas plus skylight gives operators all-round visibility.

A large display with advanced touchscreen option provides intuitive machine function control and easy monitoring of critical operating parameters.

The Cat 304 and 305 mini excavators now also come with a Cat Stick Steer System that allows the operator to switch from conventional lever/foot-pedal steering controls to joystick operation as per a skid steer loader. Two travel speed ranges and a standard cruise control function help operators move around the job site quickly and easily.

Daily maintenance checks for the 304 and 305 CR are done from ground level through side doors. The use of parts common across the next-gen line-up helps to reduce parts inventory investment and simplifies maintenance and repairs. Caterpillar has also increased the greasing and servicing intervals of the machine, leading to a 10 per cent reduction in owning and operating cost, the company says.

Cat unveils next-gen mini excavator series