Cat D-Series Mini Excavators

With the New Zealand introduction of the Cat D-Series mini excavators, Goughs has expanded the capabilities and enhanced many aspects for the most compact excavators in the Caterpillar product line now available to the market.

And in the short time the new range has been available, Goughs has been kept busy with contractors throughout the country adding the popular new models to their fleets.

Continuing with a reputation of superior quality, the new D-Series CR machines delivers more stability and the nomenclature has been realigned to represent the true operating weights for each model. The four new Cat models available from Goughs are the 303.5D CR, 304D CR, 305D CR, and 305.5D CR which range in operating weight from 3540kg to 5360kg.

Graeme Craig, owner of The Pothole People in Christchurch is one of the contractors that have moved into the
D-Series mini range with the acquisition of a new Cat 305D CR unit. Graeme says, “The Pothole People has acquired four Cat C-Series mini excavators from Goughs over the last twelve months and because we were pleased with their performance, it was decided to consider the Cat D-Series when this range became available.”

“We wanted to standardise our excavator fleet and when we evaluated the Cat D-Series machine package from Goughs, it ticked all the boxes. In the past we’ve also had issues at times with getting parts for machines, but we knew with Goughs that good Cat parts availability is a guarantee.”  “All our operators have been impressed with the performance of new Cat D-Series range, so although it’s early days we’ve very happy with the decision to select the package that Goughs have provided.”

Auckland-based contractor, Sureway Civil, has also selected a 305D CR unit for use on its civil, residential and commercial construction worksites. Owner Brandon Hands says that his company already had a Cat 305C CR in its fleet and the D-Series model was chosen as a supplementary unit for the compact radius it provides it provides for smaller spaces and its fuel efficiency. Mr Hands also notes the appeal of purchasing from Goughs Cat for the premium service at the point of sale and during the life of the machine that ensures regular maintenance and an availability of parts that is second to none.

So what are some features of the new Cat D-Series mini excavators that have made these models popular so quickly in the market?

Importantly each of the four new models has increased stability over the former C-Series range. The 2 smaller models reporting in the 3-4 tonne size class have significantly increased stability over the side while the 305D CR and 305.5D CR have a new, larger integrated counterweight resulting in a 5% stability increase over the previous series, while maintaining the compact radius design. Goughs says this increased stability leads to more productivity and versatility through the use of heavier work tools and the optional long stick.  

The compact radius design gives greater machine versatility and the capability to work within confined areas. This allows the operator to concentrate on the work being done without having to worry about damaging the back of the machine or other job site obstacles. On the 305D CR and the 305.5D CR, the upper body stays within 140 mm of the undercarriage.  

New to the D-Series, the 303.5D CR and the 304D CR models feature a zero tail swing design. On these models, the radius of the upper body stays entirely within the width of the undercarriage. A spacious and comfortable operator station with excellent visibility and legroom keeps the operator comfortable and reduces fatigue. The boom swing and auxiliary hydraulic functions are located at the operator’s fingertips providing smooth, easy operation.                        

These joystick mounted controls deliver more productivity through precise movement of the boom swing and auxiliary functions. They also eliminate foot pedals and free up the floor for more room for the operator’s feet. 100% pilot controls provide consistent flow and pressure throughout the life of the machine. Goughs says the new models get more work done faster through a high performance power train that provides optimised engine horsepower and strong performance, while powerful digging forces and fast cycle times deliver the productivity that any job demands.

All four models feature a closed-centre, load-sensing hydraulic system that optimises flow for smooth, powerful performance and increased fuel efficiency. Finally, simplified service and maintenance on the D-Series range of mini excavators saves contractors time and money, with convenient service features making maintenance easy and reducing downtime. A side-lifting hood allows access to the air filter, main control valve, auxiliary-hydraulic flow selector, fuel filter and hydraulic tank. This eliminates the need to lift the cab when maintaining and servicing the machine.  The swing-out rear door provides an easy reach to engine-oil check/fill points, vertically mounted engine-oil filter, starter motor and alternator. In addition, the radiator and oil cooler are positioned for easy cleaning.

The Cat D-Series Mini Excavator range is now available in New Zealand. Contact Goughs for further details.