Cat 302.5 Mini Excavator - Specs, Features and Benefits

Introducing the Cat 302.5 Mini Hydraulic Excavator

If you're in the market for a compact yet powerful excavator, the Cat 302.5 is an excellent option to consider. Caterpillar's 302.5 mini excavator model offers the perfect balance of versatility, performance, and ease of operation for a variety of applications.

Overview of the Cat 302.5 Mini Excavator

The Cat 302.5 is a 5-ton hydraulic excavator with a powerful Cat C1.1 turbocharged diesel engine. It has an operating weight of around 11,000 pounds and is designed for use in confined spaces where efficient power and smooth control are essential.

This mini excavator model features a tight tail swing radius and retractable undercarriage for excellent maneuverability and accessibility. The compact radius design allows the 302.5 mini excavator to work in areas inaccessible to standard excavators.

Some key features and specifications of the Cat 302.5 include:

• 11,070 lb operating weight
• 74.2 HP Cat C1.1 turbocharged diesel engine
• 12 ft maximum dig depth
• 8'2" dig radius
• 1.64 ft tail swing radius
• Auxiliary hydraulic system
• ROPS/FOPS protected cab

With its powerful hydraulic system and strong digging forces, the 302.5 provides excellent productivity on the job site. At the same time, its smooth and precise controls allow operators to work with accuracy on critical utilities or landscaping tasks.

Ideal Applications for the Cat 302.5

The Cat 302.5 mini excavator is designed for use in a wide range of applications, especially in confined spaces:

• Residential Construction Sites - Tight access requirements make the 302.5 perfect for digging foundations, trenches, and utility work.
• Landscaping and Grounds Care - Excellent control and stability for digging, grading, and site preparation.
• General Construction - A great all-around machine for utility, demolition, and earthmoving jobs.
• Road and Highway Work - Power and performance for culvert installation, ditch cleaning, and slope finishing.
• Forestry and Agriculture - Removes brush, clears land, and assists with installation of pipes/utilities.

In addition, rental companies may offer the Cat 302.5 mini excavator for short-term jobs where a compact and nimble excavator is required.

Key Features and Benefits of the 302.5

Here are some of the standout features that make the Cat 302.5 mini excavator a great choice:

• Excellent digging forces - Provides 22,730 lbf bucket digging force for fast cycle times.
• Stability and lift capacity - 7,275 lb rated load over front makes lifting and loading tasks easy.
• Smooth hydraulic controls - Proportional auxiliary hydraulic system gives superb command over attachments.
• All-around visibility - Expansive cab windows and narrow cab pillars increase visibility on the jobsite.
• Extendable undercarriage - Retracts to allow access through narrow openings, then extends for stability while working.
• Easy maintenance - Consolidated routine service points under the hood for quick inspection and maintenance.

These features allow operators to work efficiently and safely when using the 302.5 mini excavator in tight quarters or tricky applications.

Comfort and Safety

Operating comfort and safety were key priorities for Caterpillar when designing the 302.5 mini excavator. The spacious ROPS/FOPS certified cab provides all-day comfort for operators.

The control layout places everything within easy reach, reducing fatigue. There is plenty of legroom as well as wide, walk-through access to enter and exit the cab swiftly. The deluxe suspension seat absorbs vibrations and can be adjusted for the optimal operating position.

For safety, the 302.5 is equipped with travel alarms and fire extinguishers. Handrails, anti-slip steps and surfaces keep operators secure while entering or exiting the excavator. Excellent visibility from the cab allows operators to work safely in tight areas.

Ease of Transportation

Since the 302.5 is a mini excavator, it is easy to transport between jobsites behind a truck, using a trailer, or by driving it short distances. Its retracted width of 4'7" allows it to pass through standard gates and doors.

Several features also assist with transport:

• Tow pin on base frame simplifies pulling the excavator onto a truck or trailer.
• Tie-down points secure the excavator during transport.
• Standard two-speed tracking system provides efficient driving between sites.
• Retractable undercarriage shortens the length for better maneuverability when driving.

With a transport weight around 11,000 lb, the 302.5 mini excavator can be hauled by a variety of trucks and trailers. Be sure to check your local regulations for any special oversize transport permits that may be required.

attachments

The Cat 302.5 mini excavator is highly versatile thanks to the wide range of compatible attachments available. Typical attachments include:

• Hydraulic hammers - For demolition, breaking up concrete or asphalt.
• Augers - Drill holes for foundations, fencing, trees.
• Grapples - Move logs, brush, and debris.
• Trenchers - Dig trenches for drainage or utility lines.
• Levelers - Prepare and flatten ground surfaces.
• Landscape rakes - Spread topsoil and smooth areas.

The standard auxiliary hydraulic system allows for simple coupling of hydraulic attachments using quick connect lines. Mechanical attachments are also easy to switch out using the standard hitch and lock pins.

Owning and Operating Costs

In addition to the purchase price, there are some key factors to keep in mind when estimating the owning and operating costs of a Cat 302.5 mini excavator:

• Fuel - Average fuel consumption will depend on workload, but plan on 1.5 - 2.5 gallons per hour.
• Maintenance - Routine service is straightforward with consolidated checkpoints under the hood. Typical maintenance costs are around $1.50 per hour.
• Insurance - For a mini excavator, plan on $500 - $2,000 per year depending on coverage.
• Transportation - A trailer for transport may range from $2,000 for a used trailer to $10,000+ for a new heavy-duty model.

Caterpillar provides detailed operating cost estimates to help buyers budget for ownership. Be sure to factor in all regular expenses to determine the 302.5's affordability.

Availability of Cat 302.5 Mini Excavators

New Cat 302.5 mini excavators can be purchased through your local Cat equipment dealer. Caterpillar has an extensive dealer network, so there is likely a dealer in your region with new 302.5 models available or who can order one for you.

Some equipment dealers may also have used and refurbished 302.5 excavators available at a lower price point. These units have been inspected and reconditioned to Manufacturer specifications.

Renting a 302.5 mini excavator is also an option. Cat rental stations and independent rental yards often have 302.5 models available for short-term needs. Rental can make sense for one-off jobs where purchasing is not cost-effective.

The Cat 302.5 mini excavator delivers an outstanding mix of power, precision, and maneuverability. For anyone who needs a nimble yet robust compact excavator, the 302.5 is a great choice to consider.

FAQs

What is the reach and dig depth of the Cat 302.5?

The 302.5 mini excavator has a maximum dig depth of 12 feet and a dig radius of 8 feet 2 inches. This allows it to reach well below ground level and out to the side while working in tight spaces.

What size trailer do I need to transport a 302.5?

With a transport weight around 11,000 pounds, you'll need a heavy-duty trailer with a capacity of at least 12,000 pounds gross vehicle weight. A 14,000 pound trailer would provide extra capacity. Be sure to check regulations for oversize load permits.

Can I use the 302.5 for landscaping jobs?

Yes, the 302.5 is an excellent excavator for landscaping work. Its smooth controls allow precise grading and contouring. Various attachments like augers, rakes, and trenchers make it highly versatile for most landscaping applications.