Used Caterpillar 308E Excavator

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Here is a detailed introduction to the Caterpillar 308E hydraulic excavator in English.

Caterpillar 308E Hydraulic Excavator: Comprehensive Overview

The Caterpillar 308E is a highly versatile 8-tonne class hydraulic excavator designed to deliver exceptional performance, fuel efficiency, and operator comfort across a wide range of applications. As part of the Cat E Series, it represents a significant step forward in compact excavator technology, succeeding the popular 308D model. The 308E is engineered for applications such as general construction, site development, landscaping, utility work, and demolition, offering a perfect balance of power, precision, and compact dimensions.

Key Features at a Glance

Reliable Cat C3.3B engine with advanced emissions control
Load-sensing hydraulic system for smooth, precise control
Spacious, ergonomic cab with excellent visibility and low noise levels
Fuel-saving features including Eco mode and automatic engine idle shutdown
Robust mainframe and durable components for long service life
Easy daily maintenance with ground-level access to key service points
Wide range of Cat work tools and attachments available

Engine and Emissions Compliance

At the heart of the 308E is the Cat C3.3B diesel engine. This 3.3-liter, 4-cylinder, turbocharged powerplant produces a net power of approximately 50.2 kW (67.3 hp) at 2,200 rpm. It meets U.S. EPA Tier 4 Interim / EU Stage IIIB emission standards using a combination of advanced combustion technology and a maintenance-free aftertreatment system that does not require a diesel particulate filter (DPF), thereby reducing operator involvement and operating costs.

The engine is electronically controlled and features an automatic engine speed control that lowers rpm when the machine is not under load, reducing fuel consumption and noise levels. An Eco mode further optimizes fuel usage without sacrificing breakout force or lifting capability.

Hydraulic System

The 308E uses a state-of-the-art load-sensing hydraulic system that provides flow on demand. This means the pumps deliver precisely the oil flow required for the task, minimizing parasitic losses and contributing to the machine’s excellent fuel economy. Key hydraulic components are designed for durability and responsive control.

Main pumps: Two variable-displacement axial piston pumps delivering a total flow of up to 137 L/min per pump for fast cycle times.
Maximum system pressure: 28,500 kPa (4,133 psi) for the implement circuit, ensuring ample digging force.
Boom and arm regeneration circuits: These reduce cycle times and improve fuel efficiency by recirculating oil within the cylinders rather than sending it back to the tank.
Auxiliary hydraulic lines: Standard two-way flow to the end of the stick, ready for use with breakers, thumbs, compactors, and other Cat work tools. One-way and high-flow options are available.

Performance and Digging Forces

The 308E delivers impressive digging and lifting performance for its size class. With a standard 2,600 mm stick and a 0.38 m³ general purpose bucket, typical performance figures are:

Maximum dig depth: 4,170 mm (13 ft 8 in)
Maximum reach at ground level: 6,520 mm (21 ft 5 in)
Bucket digging force (SAE): 57.5 kN (12,925 lbf)
Stick digging force (SAE): 39.2 kN (8,810 lbf)
Swing speed: 10.5 rpm
Maximum travel speed: 5.0 km/h (high range) / 3.0 km/h (low range)

The machine’s excellent lift capacity and high breakout forces allow it to handle tough digging, trenching, and heavy lifting tasks with ease. The standard dozer blade further enhances stability during digging and can be used for backfilling and grading.

Operator Station

Caterpillar places a strong emphasis on operator comfort and safety in the 308E cab. The spacious environment helps reduce fatigue and boosts productivity over long shifts.

ROPS/FOPS certified cab: The structure meets ISO 12117-2 (ROPS) and ISO 10262 (FOPS Level I) standards, providing essential protection.
Visibility: Large glass areas, a narrow front cab post, and a large overhead skylight offer excellent all-around visibility to the work area.
Suspension seat: A fully adjustable mechanical or optional air-suspension seat with high backrest and integrated headrest ensures day-long comfort.
Controls: Low-effort pilot-operated joystick controls deliver precise implement response. The joysticks are ergonomically placed on adjustable consoles.
Climate control: An efficient automatic air conditioning and heating system with multiple vents maintains a comfortable temperature regardless of outside conditions.
Monitor display: A multi-function LCD monitor provides vital machine information at a glance, including fuel level, engine temperature, clock, and service reminders. A travel alarm and a secondary engine shutdown switch are standard.
Low interior noise: Sound levels are reduced to around 73 dB(A), allowing clear communication and reducing operator stress.

Machine Configuration and Undercarriage

The standard Caterpillar 308E is a conventional tail-swing machine, but a Compact Radius (CR) version, the 308E CR, is also available for work in confined spaces. The standard 308E offers a solid combination of stability and lifting capacity.

The rugged undercarriage is designed for durability in demanding ground conditions. Steel tracks with triple-grouser shoes provide excellent traction. Grease-lubricated and sealed track rollers, idlers, and sprockets extend component life and reduce maintenance. Track tension is easily adjusted using a grease cylinder.

Serviceability and Maintenance

Caterpillar has designed the 308E with daily maintenance simplicity in mind to maximize uptime.

Ground-level access: All routine service points—engine oil, fuel/water separator, air filter, hydraulic oil sight gauge, and radiator coolant level—are accessible from ground level.
Wide-opening service doors: Side and rear doors open wide, providing unrestricted access to the engine, cooling package, and main hydraulic valve.
Remote grease points: Many pin joints feature centralized or easily accessible grease fittings.
Extended service intervals: Hydraulic oil and filter change intervals are extended to 5,000 operating hours, reducing ownership costs.
S·O·S sampling ports: Integrated ports allow technicians to easily draw fluid samples for analysis, helping monitor component health.
Fuel system protection: A primary fuel filter with water separator and a secondary fine fuel filter safeguard the engine injection system.

Safety Features

In addition to the ROPS/FOPS cab, the 308E includes several standard safety features:

Rear-view camera ready (wiring and bracket are provided)
Hydraulic lockout control lever that disables all implement and travel functions when the console is raised
Anti-skid surfaces on walkways and top of the mainframe
Large grab handles for three-point contact during entry and exit
Travel alarm and beacon ready
Emergency engine stop switch at ground level

Optional Equipment and Attachments

To match the diverse needs of customers, the 308E can be configured with a wide selection of factory-installed options and attachments:

Auxiliary hydraulic circuits (one-way, two-way, high-flow)
Quick coupler for fast bucket changes
Different arm lengths and boom configurations
Angle or tilt dozer blade
Cab guarding (top guard, front guard for demolition)
LED working lights
Cat Grade Control ready package for improved grading accuracy
Compatible with a full range of Cat buckets, hydraulic breakers, augers, thumbs, rippers, and compaction wheels

Sustainability

The 308E is designed with environmental responsibility in mind. The C3.3B engine delivers lower emissions and reduced fuel consumption compared to previous models. The machine uses long-life fluids and filters, and components are engineered for remanufacturing or recycling at the end of their service life, supporting the Caterpillar circular economy philosophy.

Summary

The Caterpillar 308E hydraulic excavator is a powerful, fuel-efficient, and comfortable machine that excels in a variety of earthmoving and construction tasks. Its advanced hydraulics, durable structures, and thoughtful operator-focused design make it a top choice for contractors who demand reliability and low operating costs. Whether digging trenches, loading trucks, grading sites, or handling materials with attachments, the 308E delivers consistent performance backed by the global Cat dealer support network.

Non flooded

No accident

Original product

Used Caterpillar 308E Excavator

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