Caterpillar Introduces the 308 CR Fixed Boom Mini Excavator
Caterpillar recently announced it has replaced its 307.5 Fixed Boom mini excavator with the 308 CR Fixed Boom model. The machine — which is new to Cat’s 8-ton-class offering — boasts more power and increased hydraulic horsepower, upping efficiency and performance when using hydromechanical work tools. Caterpillar said the 308 CR Fixed Boom’s compact radius design reduces machine overhang by 67 percent compared to the previous model when equipped with the 550-lb counterweight package. Operators can also equip the new 308 CR with the optional 1,100-lb counterweight option which offers a 61 percent machine overhang reduction.
“We’ve continued the popular next generation design features of stick steer, cruise control, Ease of Use technology ready and a comfortable pressurized and sealed cab in the new 308 CR Fixed Boom mini excavator,” said Greg Worley, market professional — mini excavators for Cat. “Plus, we’ve given this 8-ton-class machine a compact radius design, a slightly larger undercarriage for stability and two counterweight options for even higher lift capacities than the 307.5. The new 308 delivers maximum power and performance in a mini size excavator to work in a wide range of applications.”
Power Up
According to the press release, the new 308 CR is powered by the Cat C2.8 Turbo engine with 69.0 hp net power — meeting EU Stage V / U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final emission standards. Designed with low operating costs in mind, the 308 CR is packed with features like auto idle, auto engine shutdown and efficient hydraulics with a variable displacement (Smart) pump.
When compared to the previous model, the 308 CR’s increases in track width, undercarriage length and machine weight all lead to operating stability and confidence when lifting to the side. As for tracks options, customers can choose between rubber belt, steel track and steel track with rubber pads to meet their specific needs. Caterpillar said the new 308 offers slight digging depth and maximum reach increases of 185 in. and 272 in., respectively, with its long stick configuration. Crews will also appreciate increases in minimum/maximum configuration lift capacities when operating over the front with blade down and over the side.
Caterpillar noted that pin sizing remains the same with the 308 CR, so customers with the 307.5 in their fleet can use the same work tools with the new machine. The 308 CR’s hydraulic system features load sensing hydraulics with variable displacement piston pump offering 44 gpm oil flow, as well as primary auxiliary circuit pump flow of 35 gpm and 9 gpm of secondary auxiliary circuit maximum flow. This all helps deliver efficient work tool operation and performance.
Easier Operation
To assist operators with controlling the excavator, the company offers two software packages — Indicate and E-Fence — from the factory or as a field upgrade kit. These solutions simplify machine operation, improve accuracy and enhance overall productivity.
Indicate is an entry-level grading system that provides visual and audible indicators to where the bucket is versus target grade. It offers operators the ability to program a flat grade or slope, and is ideal for digging footings, septic systems, foundations, slope work and similar applications.
Operators can work confidently and efficiently by avoiding structures thanks to E-Fence. With this solution, operators can set a variety of boundaries to help to keep crews out of harm’s way. For example, E-Ceiling helps operators avoid overhead obstacles like powerlines, ceilings or tree limbs. E-Floor defines digging depth limits to protect underground fiber-optic cables and utilities. E-Wall sets operating limits to protect structures in front of the excavator.
Caterpillar also offers grading solutions.
From the press release:
Easy to learn and use, the aftermarket installed Cat Grade automatics offer customers the ability to create, manage and grade simple to complex designs with accuracy, ensuring cuts are filled to exact specifications. Cat Grade Advanced 2D allows operators to set parameters for digging and leveling operations, including cross slope and work site main fall. Enabling deeper design capabilities, Cat Grade 3D employs global navigational satellite system (GNSS) receivers and a correctional data source to achieve Real Time Kinematic (RTK) positioning guidance for more complex planes, slopes, contours and curves.
More On the 308 CR Fixed Boom Mini Excavator
Caterpillar said the new 308 CR Fixed Boom mini excavator builds on many of the next generation design features popular with the 307.5 model, including:
- A sealed and pressurized cab equipped with improved air conditioning, adjustable wrist rests and a suspension seat for all-day comfort.
- Next generation monitor with easy-to-use controls and intuitive operation, with customizable preferences and easy-to-access machine information.
- Standard Cat Stick Steer provides push-of-a-button switching from traditional lever and paddle travel controls to joystick control.
- Cruise control reduces operator fatigue when traveling distances between work areas within the site.
- Easy-to-access routine check points at ground level with grouped service points and robust service panels.
- Back-up camera, side camera, courtesy work lights and fluorescent seatbelt with optional seatbelt reminder system to enhance operating safety.
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