New E Series Mini Excavators Deliver Stability and High Digging Forces with a Compact Radius Design.

The five new compact-radius Cat® E Series Mini Hydraulic Excavators—303.5E CR, 304E CR, 305E CR, 305.5E CR and 308E CR SB—all use new engines that meet Stage IIIA /Tier 4 Interim emissions regulations and incorporate new features such as the COMPASS control panel, standard high-ambient cooling package, more efficient auxiliary hydraulics, and redesigned control layout. The new models are designed to carry on the solid performance of their D Series predecessor, while adding even greater value for the customer.

All the E Series models are equipped with a new digital control panel that is specially designed for Cat Mini Excavators—COMPASS—Complete Operation, Maintenance, Performance, And Security System. Built into the COMPASS monitor are an anti-theft system, which requires a five-digit alphanumeric password to start the machine, and an Economy Mode feature (3.5- to 5.5-ton machines), which potentially can lower fuel use up to 20 percent by adjusting engine speed. An automatic engine-idle system drops engine rpm to idle after 4 seconds of inactivity.

Also available through the COMPASS panel is a continuous-flow feature for auxiliary hydraulics, which maintains selected flow without operator intervention. An adjustable auxiliary-flow control for work tools also is new. Both main-line and optional secondary auxiliary-hydraulic systems can be adjusted on a scale of 1-15 via the monitor for added control when handling, for example, a tilting bucket/coupler or thumb. Also, a number of different work-tools come preset into the control panel for the operator to choose.

Additional refinements for the five E Series models include a standard high-ambient cooling package, electric fuel-pump-priming system, a four-post canopy (3.5- to 5.5-ton machines), new ergonomic joysticks, and relocation of a number of controls for operator convenience—for example, two-speed travel switch to the blade lever, secondary auxiliary hydraulic engagement to the left joystick, and manual pattern changer from the floor to the COMPASS monitor.

All new E Series machines use an end-damping system in both the boom and stick cylinders to reduce shock loads and to reduce material spillage. E Series sticks are thumb-ready, with brackets welded in place and relief valves already built into the main valve.