Terra Cat has debuted the new 4-tonne Cat 304, and 5-tonne Cat 305 CR Next Generation Mini Excavators in New Zealand, with these models delivering more power to the pumps, higher bucket breakout forces and deeper standard digging depths to increase performance by up to 20% over their E2 series counterparts. Their grease intervals and extended filter service life, combined with common components throughout the line and flat, easy-to-replace side panels, deliver up to 10% lower owner and operating costs. Terra Cat Industry Sales Manager, Bevan Dale says, “The new 304 and 305 CR models are the final machines to be re-engineered to the Cat next generation mini excavator line concept. From the 1.5 to 10-tonne class models, all 14 Cat mini excavators in the range offer common features and consistent controls layout to simplify training and operator adaptation.” Built with a new reduced radius design, the 304 features a narrow, 1700mm track width, 254mm slimmer than the 304 E2, for more versatility and access to confined spaces. While narrower, the new 304 design increases the performance, balance, and stability of the 4-tonne class model. Its reduced radius allows for greater stability, both 360-degree and when travelling with loads, while its extra counterweight option takes the model to a higher level of stability.
The new engine on the 5-tonne class Cat 305 CR Excavator delivers nearly 9% greater power to increase machine performance. Hydraulic system improvements 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, giving it more application flexibility. Its compact radius swing reduces overhang when working to the side, while its 1980mm track width and new extra counterweight option help to optimize 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 centre. 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. "An emission standards-compliant Cat C1.7 turbo engine replaces the previous C2.4 engine, offering more power and efficiency," Bevan Dale says. "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 mini excavator operation. Lower Fuel use means less CO2 emitted saving fuel and the environment." 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. Bevan Dale says the 304 and 305 Cat Stick Steer feature is another benefit that Cat’s mini excavator range brings to New Zealand job sites. "This really is a key stand-out feature. Stick Steer gives the operator the ability to easily switch from traditional travel controls with levers and pedals, to joystick controls just by pushing a button. It essentially means the operator can almost drive their mini excavator like a skid steer. It just adds to the work efficiency these compact machines deliver to their owners." 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 percent reduction in owning and operating cost.
Bevan Dale adds, “Caterpillar’s design philosophy means that there is more commonality of parts and features throughout the full Cat excavator range. So, that presents owners and operators of Cat 1.5 to 10 tonne units with big benefits, because these entry-level machines receive similar or the same features as you’d find in the manufacturer’s bigger machines.” Additionally, Caterpillar now offers Cat Grade technologies as an aftermarket option to owners of Cat next generation mini hydraulic excavators in the 6- to 9-tonne class range. Available factory fitted from Caterpillar through Terra Cat, and Sitech, owners can equip the excavators with Cat Grade with Advanced 2D or Cat Grade with 3D. The field kit’s modular components facilitate quick installation, while the technology seamlessly integrates into the Cat next gen excavator electronics infrastructure. Both aftermarket grade technologies mirror the capabilities of larger Cat excavators operating Cat Grade with Advanced 2D or 3D systems, allowing the equipment to reach target grade quickly. A separate, high-resolution touchscreen monitor allows operators to conveniently view, create and work site designs inside the cab. Automatics deliver simple, single-joystick control over the stick and bucket to maintain grade and avoid overcutting and undercutting.
