CAT320D
Frequently Asked Questions about CAT320D Excavator
The CAT 320D has an operating weight of 20,930 kg (approx. 21 tons) and is powered by the Cat C6.4 ACERT engine, delivering 103 kW (138 hp) at 2,000 rpm . The engine features 6 cylinders with a displacement of 6.37 liters, bore and stroke of 102mm × 130mm, providing excellent torque at low-to-medium speeds for tough digging applications . The machine comes standard with a 1.0 m³ HD (Heavy Duty) bucket and a 5700mm boom with 2900mm arm
While the standard CAT 320D (with C6.4 ACERT) typically consumes 15–20 liters per hour depending on application and operating mode, the newer 320D3 GC variant offers significantly improved fuel efficiency. The 320D3 GC consumes only 11–13 liters per hour in earthmoving applications when operating in Eco mode, making it up to 35% more fuel-efficient than comparable machines in its class . The 320D has a 410-liter fuel tank, providing approximately 20–27 hours of continuous operation under normal conditions .
Common hydraulic issues on the CAT 320D include slow or weak operation, often caused by:
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Clogged hydraulic filters – Replace every 1,000–2,000 hours
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Low pilot pressure – Should be at 3.9 MPa; adjust if below spec
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Hydraulic oil degradation – Change every 6,000 hours or when S·O·S oil analysis indicates contamination
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Main pump wear – Flow rate should be 404 L/min at 35 MPa working pressure
The 320D features an independent pilot pump separate from the main pumps, and boom/arm regeneration circuits that save energy during boom-down and arm-in operations
At the 5,000-hour service milestone, owners should budget approximately $8,000–$15,000 USD for comprehensive maintenance, depending on machine condition and local labor rates . Key service items include:
| Component | Service Interval | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Engine oil & filter | Every 500 hours | $200–300 |
| Hydraulic oil & filter | Every 6,000 hours | $1,500–2,500 |
| Fuel filters | Every 500–1,000 hours | $50–100 each |
| Undercarriage (tracks, rollers, sprockets) | Inspect at 5,000h; replace at 6,000–8,000h | $4,000–8,000 |
| Swing bearing & turntable | Grease every 250h; inspect at 5,000h | $2,000–5,000 if replacement needed |
Pro tip: The newer 320D3 GC extends hydraulic oil change intervals to 6,000 hours and eliminates pilot/drain filters, reducing maintenance costs by up to 12% compared to previous generations
| Specification | CAT 320D | Volvo EC210D | Komatsu PC200-8 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 20,930 kg | 20,900 kg | 20,000 kg |
| Engine power | 103 kW | 123 kW | 110 kW |
| Fuel consumption | 15–20 L/h | 14–18 L/h | 13–17 L/h |
| Digging force (bucket) | 140 kN | 150 kN | 145 kN |
| Hydraulic flow | 404 L/min | 2×210 L/min | 439 L/min |
Verdict: The CAT 320D is renowned for structural durability and resale value – owners consistently rate it as “rugged and reliable” for heavy-duty applications . While the Volvo EC210D offers slightly better fuel efficiency and a more spacious cab, the CAT 320D has superior parts availability globally and lower long-term ownership costs. The Komatsu PC200-8 is comparable in power but the CAT’s C6.4 ACERT engine provides better torque at low RPMs for demanding digging conditions
