Caterpillar has expanded its Next Generation mini excavator range with the 302.4 Compact Radius (CR) and the 302.6, two machines in the 2.4- and 2.6-tonne class sizes that complement the existing Cat 302. Both meet most towing requirements for easier transport, and Caterpillar says their next-generation design improves productivity, travel and lifting and outperforms previous Cat mini excavators in digging and trenching.
“We focused on four key areas to help deliver customer value with these units – cost-effective transportability, stability when lifting heavy loads, high ground clearance for working on trails with the fixed undercarriage and an easy to operate, smoother, more efficient hydraulic system. Customers will be able to use a wide range of work tools like hammers and demolition attachments, given the high auxiliary hydraulic flow,” says Zach Waite, commercial director at Caterpillar Industry Solutions.
A wide fixed undercarriage on both machines raises lift capacity. The 302.4 CR has a wider track width of 1499mm than the 302 CR and a lift capacity of 980kg, with a top travel speed of 4.8km/h. The 302.6 has a lower operating weight of 3030kg than the 302.7 CR, which allows it to be transported without a commercial driver’s licence (CDL), and provides around 40% more lift capacity than the 302.7 CR fixed undercarriage, more than 453kg higher.
Both machines share components with other Next Generation mini excavators and use a consistent layout across the range. A tilt-up cab gives access to components, service intervals are extended, and the hydraulic system, uphill swing torque, lifting performance, travel speed and turning are all improved over the previous 302.7 CR. A sealed and pressurised cab is available as an option to reduce noise and dust ingress.
“Our key product differentiators for the two new units focus on enhancing the customer experience through affordability, productivity, operator experience and serviceability. These units are up to the task of meeting our customers’ toughest challenges,” adds Waite.
