Used Cat 302.7 Excavator Buying Guide - 2500 Words

Introduction

With construction booming across North America, demand for heavy equipment like excavators remains strong. And for many contractors starting out or looking to expand their fleet, buying a used excavator is an attractive option. The Cat 302.7 is a popular 7-ton size class model that offers an excellent balance of power, efficiency and affordability.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know when looking for a used Cat 302.7 excavator for sale, including what to look for during inspections, average prices, common problems, and tips for getting the best deal.

Overview of the Cat 302.7 Excavator

The Caterpillar 302.7 is a lightweight short-swing excavator that was manufactured from 1993 to 2008. With an operating weight of 6.7-7.4 tons, it’s powered by a 56hp Cat 3054T diesel engine and uses a closed-center load sensing hydraulic system.

Key specs include:

• Digging depth: 15’ 2”
• Dump height: 10’ 5”
• Reach at ground level: 18’ 1”
• Bucket capacity: 0.28 cu yd
• Width: 6’ 6”

The 302.7 is a highly versatile excavator equally suited for digging trenches, loading trucks, demolition work and more. The minimal tail swing allows the machine to work in confined spaces. It's a popular rental unit, and also commonly found with landscapers, general contractors and underground utility contractors.

Advantages of Buying a Used 302.7

There are several good reasons to consider purchasing a used Cat 302.7 excavator:

• Used machines cost 40-50% less than new.
• The 302.7 is proven to be a reliable, durable model.
• At 7 tons, it's light enough to transport easily.
• Low hour late model units still have plenty of life left.
• Easier to find used parts and service information.

Of course, buying used equipment does come with more risks compared to new. However, following the inspection and buying tips later in this guide will help minimize that risk.

What to Look For in a Used Cat 302.7

When evaluating a used 302.7 excavator for purchase, there are several things you'll want to inspect closely:

Hour Meter

Check the hour meter and service records if available. Cat designed the 302.7 to last around 10,000-15,000 hours before needing a major overhaul. Look for machines in the 3,000-8,000 hour range for the best value.

Hydraulic Cylinders

Check all cylinders for leaks and smooth operation when cycling. Look for any dents, damage or buckling.

Undercarriage

Inspect the tracks and rollers for wear and cracks. Sagging or loose tracks indicate worn rollers/idlers. Estimate 40-50% remaining life as the minimum.

Boom/Stick/Bucket

Look for any cracks, welds or damage. Check bushings/pins for looseness. The bucket should have minimal wear or damage.

Fluid Leaks

Scan components like cylinders, pumps, and valves for leaks. A few drops is normal, but excessive oil leaks indicate issues.

Test Operation

Cycle all functions and inspect for jerky or uneven movement. Listen for unusual noises during operation. Test braking and steering in both directions.

Cab Condition

While cosmetic cabin wear is normal, visible damage or corrosion here can hint at overall abuse or neglect.

Average 302.7 Prices

Used 302.7 excavators typically sell for $25,000 - $55,000 depending on age, hours, and overall condition. Here are some average resale prices:

• 6000 hours: $45,000
• 3000 hours: $55,000
• Refurbished: $35,000
• High hours/salvage: $15,000-$25,000

Newer low-hour machines with auxiliary hydraulics and coupler/thumb can sell for over $60k. Older high-hour units or ones needing significant repairs will sell for under $20k.

Common Problems

Some common issues to be aware of on older 302.7 excavators include:

• Overheating due to clogged radiator or coolant leaks
• Sticking swing motor bearings
• Leaking hydraulic cylinders
• Worn/damaged front idler bearings
• Undercarriage wear and track sag
• Electrical problems from corrosion

Most problems like these can be repaired economically. But taken together, many issues could indicate a machine that’s had a hard life. Seek out well-maintained examples with complete service records if possible.

Inspection Tips

Here are some important things to keep in mind when inspecting a used Cat 302.7:

• Inspect in person whenever possible, not just in photos.
• Bring someone knowledgeable about excavators.
• Take your time and don’t feel rushed.
• Operate the machine yourself during testing.
• Check availability of replacement parts.
• Review maintenance logs and service records.
• Verify serial numbers to check for salvage/rebuilds.

Thoroughly inspecting any used heavy machine before purchasing can help avoid expensive hidden problems down the road.

Where to Buy a Used 302.7

There are several options when it comes to finding a used Cat 302.7 for sale:

• Auctions - Excavators are frequently sold at equipment auctions like Ritchie Bros and Ironplanet. Selection varies but prices can be good.
• Dealers - Most Cat dealers offer certified used equipment with warranties. Higher prices but less risk.
• Private Sellers - Check sites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, etc. More legwork but potential for deals.
• Contractor Bankruptcies - Keep an eye out for contractors going out of business. Their loss can be your gain.

Cast a wide net when searching for used equipment for sale. Being patient often pays off with significant savings.

Financing Options

Some financing options to consider for purchasing a used Cat 302.7 excavator:

• Cash - Paying cash upfront yields the best price and avoids interest/fees.
• Dealer Financing - Many dealers offer in-house financing which is convenient.
• Bank/Credit Union Loans - Have stricter credit requirements but offer low rates.
• Seller Financing - Some sellers provide their own financing terms.
• Leasing - Lower payments but you won't own the machine after.

Shop around for the best rates and know your budget. Financing costs can vary widely.

Tips for Getting the Best Deal

Here are some key tips for getting the lowest price on a used Cat 302.7:

• Know the market - Research equipment values and typical price ranges.
• Check multiple listings - Compare specs and pricing for the best deal.
• Negotiate - Make counteroffers and negotiate as much as possible.
• Ask about included attachments - Buckets, thumbs etc can add significant value.
• Buy in the offseason - Prices are often lower in winter months.
• Pay with cash - Avoiding financing yields the best price.

With some search savvy and negotiation skills, there are good deals to be found on used Cat 302.7 excavators.

The Bottom Line

The Cat 302.7 is an excellent choice for contractors looking for a durable, versatile 7-ton excavator. When buying used, taking the time to thoroughly inspect condition and service records can help score a great machine at a fraction of the new cost. With proper care and maintenance, a used 302.7 will provide many years of reliable service.

FAQs

What are the key specs of the Cat 302.7?

The 302.7 has an operating weight of 6.7-7.4 tons. Key specs include a 56hp engine, 15'2" max dig depth, 10'5" dump height, and 0.28 cu yd bucket capacity.

What is a good price for a used Cat 302.7?

Pricing typically ranges from $25k for high-hour machines up to $60k for late models with low hours. Expect to pay around $45k for an average condition unit with 6,000 hours.

What are some common problems with the 302.7?

Watch for overheating, leaking hydraulics, worn undercarriage components, electrical issues, and sticking swing bearings on used 302.7 models.

Where can I find used 302.7 excavators for sale?

Good places to find used 302.7 units include auctions like Ritchie Bros, Cat dealers, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and contractor bankruptcies.

Should I buy a used or new Cat 302.7?

Buying used saves 40-50% off new costs. Carefully inspect condition and service records on any used excavator before purchasing.