Caterpillar Expands Mini Hydraulic Excavator Line With New 6-Ton Class 306 CR

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The 306 CR Mini Hydraulic Excavator is Cat’s first mini excavator in the 6-ton class. (Photo courtesy of Caterpillar.)

The Caterpillar 306 CR Mini Hydraulic Excavator is the company’s first model in the 6-ton class and brings a new level of performance to Cat’s Next Generation mini excavators with a lift capacity of up to 7,839 pounds (3,555 kilograms) at a 9.8-foot (3 meter) radius. Other key features on the 306 CR Mini Hydraulic Excavator include heavy-duty main structures, a fuel-efficient engine, load-sensing hydraulics, and the exclusive Cat Stick Steer system.

Performance & Adaptability

When configured with the long stick option and equipped with the sealed and pressurized cab, the Cat 306 CR delivers a maximum dig depth of 162 inches (4,110 millimeters) and 15,821 pounds (7,175 kilograms) maximum operating weight. The 306 CR also supports straight-blade, angled-blade and XTC (extra tool carrier) configurations. Cat powers the machine with a C2.4 turbo diesel engine rated at 55.9 net horsepower (41.7 kilowatts), and the engine meets Tier 4 Final/Stage V emission standards.

Ease-Of-Use Features

Cat indicates that the new model features a similar control layout and common components with the full line of Cat Next Generation mini excavators, which should simplify training. The 306 CR also includes Cat’s Next Generation LCD monitor that provides easy-to-read machine information, a jog-dial for simple navigation, and standard Bluetooth capability. The color monitor, for instance, gives the operator critical operating details such as fuel, coolant temperature, an hour meter, performance and machine adjustments, and maintenance and machine monitoring. Operators can switch from the conventional level/foot-pedal steering controls to the Stick Steer system at the touch of a button.

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Cat rates the new 306 CR for lift performance of up to 7,839 pounds. (Photo courtesy of Caterpillar.)

Fuel Efficient

Equipped with automatic engine idle and shutdown features, the Cat 306 CR is able to help construction operations save on fuel. Cat also designed the mini excavator with a fuel-saving, load-sensing hydraulic system with an electronically controlled variable-displacement piston pump. Cat indicates that the high flow rate (24 gallons per minute) to the auxiliary circuit enables operation of demanding hydromechanical attachments.

Source: Caterpillar

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