Caterpillar Announces Updates to Backhoe Loaders, Mini Excavators
Caterpillar recently announced a few updates to its Cat 440 and 450 Backhoe Loaders, 303.5 CR Mini Excavator and the 5- to 10-tonne Mini Excavators.
For the backhoe loaders, the next generation Cat 440 and 450 Backhoe Loaders now feature improved machine performance, an advanced hydraulic system and increased versatility compared to previous models. Offering more operator choice and advanced machine control, these new models operate on the efficient Cat C3.6 engine and the latest Product Link™ technology.
The new 440 and 450 will still offer adjustable seat-mounted joystick controls. The controls swivel with the operator to perform loader and backhoe functions and enable Dual Mode operation, which offers efficient machine repositioning and allows the operator to sit at an angle while controlling the machine to improve visibility.
On the mini excavator front, the next generation compact radius Cat 303.5 CR Mini Hydraulic Excavator has received a significant software update designed to improve transient speeds up to 25% compared to previous 303.5 CR next gen models. The 303.5 CR’s more dynamic design with quick transient speeds helps to reposition the excavator in a shorter period, limiting the time the machine is not working. The update is compatible with all next generation builds dating back to the first production models in 2021. The current software version is available on the excavator’s operating monitor, and customers can get the latest update from their Cat dealer.
For its 5- to 10-tonne mini excavators, Caterpillar also announced multiple enhancements to its Cat® 305 CR, 308 CR, 309 CR and 310 Mini Hydraulic Excavator models. The compact radius Cat 305 CR now joins the 6- to 10-tonne class models to offer mini hydraulic excavator (MHE) ease-of-use (EOU) E-Fence and Indicate features for software-enabled attachment versions. The compact radius Cat 308 CR and 309 CR plus the 310 mini hydraulic excavators are now powered by the new Cat C2.8 engine, offering the same ratings and performance as the previous Cat C3.3B power unit. The next generation 308 CR will offer an angle blade option to help with backfilling material.
Source: Caterpillar
