Cat’s Premier Mini-Excavator Spins Off Two Models

Caterpillar has added the 301.6 and 301.8 mini hydraulic excavators for customers who require increased stability and more working ranges from the smallest of excavators. The 301.6 has a standard long stick, long tracks and extra counterweight for increased longitudinal stability, performance and versatility. The 301.8 has a variable width undercarriage and long tracks that further enhance stability and performance. An optional long stick provides additional reach and versatility. Both the 301.6 and 301.8 are off-spring of the 301.5, the first Caterpillar mini excavator introduced to North America in 1998. The new excavators continue to use the Cat 3003 water-cooled diesel engine, which produces net power of 17.4 hp (13 kW). The excavators are designed for reliable performance and feature ease of operation and service as well as increased flexibility and versatility through the use of a wide range of Caterpillar Work Tools. The 301.6 has an operating weight of 3,505 lbs. (1,590 kg) when equipped with a canopy. The long tracks are 59 in. (149.86 cm), compared to the 301.5 track length of 55 in. (139.7 cm). The additional track length and extra counterweight provide better longitudinal stability for machines working in applications requiring longer reach and greater dig depths. The long stick allows a maximum digging depth of 7 ft. 8 in. (2.33 m) and a reach at ground level of 12 ft. 6 in. (3.81 m). The excavators stick digging force is 1,609 lbs. (730 kg) and has a bucket digging force of 2,844 lbs. (1,290 kg). The 301.8 features a variable width undercarriage, as well as long tracks and an optional long stick. The variable width undercarriage allows adjustment from the standard of 3 ft. 3 in. (.99 m) to 4 ft. 5 in. (1.34 m) for enhanced versatility and stability. The narrow gauge can be used to maximize maneuverability when the machine must work in very tight areas. A wider gauge can be used for increased stability when working in areas with adequate space. Extensions can be added to either side of the blade to match the width of the expanded undercarriage. For more information, visit www.cat.com. This story also appears on Construction Equipment Guide.