Used Cat 302.7 Mini Excavator for Sale - Buying Guide

Finding a Used Cat 302.7 Mini Excavator for Sale

The Caterpillar 302.7 mini excavator is a popular choice for small construction projects, landscaping jobs, and farm work where a compact and powerful machine is needed. Buying a used 302.7 can be a great way to get an affordable excavator without compromising on quality and performance.

Caterpillar has manufactured the 302.7 since 1997, so there are plenty of good used options out there if you know what to look for. Here's a guide to finding and purchasing a second-hand Cat 302.7 mini excavator for sale.

Where to Find Used 302.7 Excavators for Sale

Used equipment dealerships - Check with local construction equipment dealers to see their inventory of used mini excavators. They may have some 302.7 models in stock or be able to find one for you.

Online equipment listings - Websites like MachineryTrader.com, EquipmentTrader.com and AuctionTime.com have listings for used excavators that you can search through. This is a good way to see what's available across a wide area.

Classified ads - Look for local classified ads in newspapers, Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. Construction contractors or landscapers may be selling a used 302.7 excavator they no longer need.

Auctions - Government, contractor and equipment auction companies frequently sell off used excavators and compact equipment. Check for upcoming auctions in your area or search sites like IronPlanet.

Cat dealers - Your local Caterpillar dealer may have refurbished 302.7 trade-ins available or be able to help you find one through their used equipment network.

What to Look for When Buying a Used 302.7

When checking out a used Cat 302.7 mini excavator for purchase, be sure to thoroughly inspect it and obtain service records to help avoid buying a lemon. Here are some things to look at closely:

• Hours - Check the hour meter. 3000-5000 hours is typical for a used 302.7. More than 6000 hours may indicate significant wear.
• Hydraulics - Test all hydraulic functions. Look for any leaks or jerky cylinder movement.
• Undercarriage - Inspect tracks, rollers and idlers for wear or damage. Measure/estimate track life remaining.
• Attachment - Check the condition of the bucket and its teeth and any other attachments.
• Engine - Listen for unusual engine noises. Check for blowby, leaks and smoke.
• Safety - Confirm all safety decals are in place and lights/alarms work.
• Maintenance records - Ask for maintenance logs and repair invoices. Well-maintained is ideal.

Taking it for a test drive and having a mechanic inspect it are also wise precautions when evaluating a used 302.7 purchase.

What to Pay for a Used Cat 302.7

Used equipment prices can vary a lot based on age, hours, condition and market demand. Here are some general guidelines on value to help negotiate a fair used 302.7 price:

• 5,000-6,000 hours - $25,000-$35,000
• 3,000-5,000 hours - $35,000-$45,000
• Under 3,000 hours - $45,000-$55,000

Newer models with low hours in excellent condition may sell for over $55,000. On the other end, an older unit with 6,000+ hours needing repairs could go for under $20,000.

Compare prices online for similar used 302.7 excavators being sold in your region to gauge the market rate. Consider the cost of upcoming repairs/maintenance needed to accurately assess the value.

Financing a Used 302.7 Purchase

Some financing options to obtain a used Cat 302.7 mini excavator include:

• Cash - Paying cash upfront yields no interest or payments
• Bank loan - Can get fixed rates and terms through business loans or equipment loans
• Dealer financing - Most dealers offer in-house financing for used equipment
• Leasing - May have more flexible terms and lower payments than bank loans

Compare rates and payment amounts to find the most cost-effective financing method for your budget and business needs when buying a used 302.7 excavator.

Get a Dependable Used Mini Excavator

Purchasing a used Cat 302.7 gives you an affordable, high-quality mini excavator from a proven and reliable brand. Following the tips above will help you locate a used 302.7 for sale in your area, evaluate condition and value, and negotiate the best price. Proper maintenance and care of your used mini excavator will keep it working hard on all your small digging and lifting jobs.

FAQs

What size projects is a 302.7 good for?

The 302.7 is an excellent size excavator for residential construction, small commercial sites, landscaping, trenching, farming and similar compact jobs. It's well suited for navigating through gates and working in tight spaces.

What features should I look for in a used 302.7?

Key features to seek out include a thumb attachment for grabbing and moving materials, hydraulic quick coupler for easy bucket changes, enclosed cab for weather protection, rubber tracks for paved surface work, and pilot control valves for smooth operation.

How long should a 302.7 mini ex last?

With proper maintenance and care, a 302.7 can reliably log 6,000-10,000 hours over 10-15 years of use before requiring major overhaul or retirement. Look for used units under 5,000 hours for good remaining life.

Does Cat offer warranties on used equipment?

Caterpillar Certified Used equipment comes with a 6 month warranty when purchased through a Cat dealer. Non-certified purchases generally do not include a warranty.

Can I get parts for a used 302.7?

Caterpillar supports its equipment models with replacement parts long after they go out of production. OEM and aftermarket parts for the 302.7 are readily available from dealers and parts suppliers when service is needed.