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309 CR VAB Mini Excavator

309 CR VAB Mini Hydraulic Excavator

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Overview

The Cat® 309 CR Variable Angle Boom (VAB) Mini Excavator delivers maximum power and performance in a mini size to help you work in a wide range of applications. The Variable Angle Boom provides the maximum in linkage flexibility in tight applications.

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ALL DAY COMFORT
  • A sealed and pressurized cab is equipped with an improved air conditioning system, adjustable wrist rests and a suspension seat to help keep you working comfortably all day long.
EASY TO OPERATE
  • Controls are easy to use and the intuitive Next Generation Monitor provides customizable machine operator preferences and easy to read machine information.
STICK STEER TRAVEL MODE
  • Moving around the job site is even easier with the Cat Stick Steer option. Easily switch from traditional travel controls with levers and pedals to joystick controls with a push of a button. The benefit of less effort and improved control is in your hands!
BIG PERFORMANCE IN A MINI DESIGN
  • Increased lifting, swinging, travel and multi-functioning performance helps you get the job done more efficiently, dig-to-blade allows easy clean up and long undercarriage provides improved stability.
SAFETY ON THE JOB SITE
  • Your safety is our top priority. The Cat Mini Excavator is designed to help keep you safe on the job. A back-up camera, courtesy work lights and a fluorescent retractable seat belt are just a few of the safety features we’ve built into the machine.
SIMPLE SERVICE FOR LESS DOWNTIME
  • Maintenance is quick and easy on the Cat Mini Excavator. Routine check points are easy to access at ground level with grouped service points and robust service panels.
LOWER OPERATING COSTS
  • Equipped with features such as auto idle, auto engine shutdown, and efficient hydraulics with a variable displacement pump, the Cat Mini Excavator was designed with reducing your operating costs in mind.
UNMATCHED DEALER SUPPORT
  • Your Cat dealer is here to help you reach your business goals. From providing equipment solutions to operator training to service needs and beyond, your Cat dealer is ready to help.
HIGH FLOW
  • Dedicated auxiliary hydraulic pump is ideal for running power-hungry attachments while allowing the machine to simultaneously travel and multifunction. This feature allows consistent pressure to the auxiliary lines with no loss of hydraulic power keeping your attachment running at full power maintaining optimal productivity.
SUSTAINABILITY
  • The Cat® C3.3B engine meets U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final, EU Stage V, and Japan 2014 emission standards.
  • Cat diesel engines are required to use ULSD (ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel with 15 ppm of sulfur or less) or ULSD blended with the following lower-carbon intensity fuels up to: 20% biodiesel FAME (fatty acid methyl ester) * or 100% renewable diesel, HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil) and GTL (gas-to-liquid) fuels. Refer to guidelines for successful application. Please consult your Cat dealer or “Caterpillar Machine Fluids Recommendations” (SEBU6250) for details.
ALL DAY COMFORT
  • A sealed and pressurized cab is equipped with an improved air conditioning system, adjustable wrist rests and a suspension seat to help keep you working comfortably all day long.
EASY TO OPERATE
  • Controls are easy to use and the intuitive Next Generation Monitor provides customizable machine operator preferences and easy to read machine information.
STICK STEER TRAVEL MODE
  • Moving around the job site is even easier with the Cat Stick Steer option. Easily switch from traditional travel controls with levers and pedals to joystick controls with a push of a button. The benefit of less effort and improved control is in your hands!
BIG PERFORMANCE IN A MINI DESIGN
  • Increased lifting, swinging, travel and multi-functioning performance helps you get the job done more efficiently, dig-to-blade allows easy clean up and long undercarriage provides improved stability.
SAFETY ON THE JOB SITE
  • Your safety is our top priority. The Cat Mini Excavator is designed to help keep you safe on the job. A back-up camera, courtesy work lights and a fluorescent retractable seat belt are just a few of the safety features we’ve built into the machine.
SIMPLE SERVICE FOR LESS DOWNTIME
  • Maintenance is quick and easy on the Cat Mini Excavator. Routine check points are easy to access at ground level with grouped service points and robust service panels.
LOWER OPERATING COSTS
  • Equipped with features such as auto idle, auto engine shutdown, and efficient hydraulics with a variable displacement pump, the Cat Mini Excavator was designed with reducing your operating costs in mind.
UNMATCHED DEALER SUPPORT
  • Your Cat dealer is here to help you reach your business goals. From providing equipment solutions to operator training to service needs and beyond, your Cat dealer is ready to help.
HIGH FLOW
  • Dedicated auxiliary hydraulic pump is ideal for running power-hungry attachments while allowing the machine to simultaneously travel and multifunction. This feature allows consistent pressure to the auxiliary lines with no loss of hydraulic power keeping your attachment running at full power maintaining optimal productivity.
SUSTAINABILITY
  • The Cat® C3.3B engine meets U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final, EU Stage V, and Japan 2014 emission standards.
  • Cat diesel engines are required to use ULSD (ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel with 15 ppm of sulfur or less) or ULSD blended with the following lower-carbon intensity fuels up to: 20% biodiesel FAME (fatty acid methyl ester) * or 100% renewable diesel, HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil) and GTL (gas-to-liquid) fuels. Refer to guidelines for successful application. Please consult your Cat dealer or “Caterpillar Machine Fluids Recommendations” (SEBU6250) for details.
  • Auto Idle helps reduce unnecessary fuel burn and greenhouse gas emissions by allowing the engine to automatically go into idle mode when the machine is not working.
  • Engine Idle Shutdown Timer reduces fuel burn, greenhouse gas emissions and unnecessary idle time by shutting down the machine after a pre-set idling period.
  • Cruise control helps you maintain a constant speed as you travel across your jobsite saving fuel and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
  • The Cat® Seat Belt Reminder provides audible and visual warnings to remind operators to buckle up during machine operation. The easy-to-install system is compatible with all equipment brands to help ensure operator safety.
  • Extended maintenance intervals not only reduce downtime but decrease the amount of fluid and filters that are replaced over the life of the machine.
  • Remote Flash minimizes downtime and maintenance time while keeping your asset running with maximum efficiency. Alerts for machine updates are sent virtually from your Cat dealer and updates can be deployed without a dealer technician needing to be onsite.(if equipped)
  • Remote Troubleshoot decreases maintenance time and keeps your machine running with maximum efficiency by allowing your Cat dealer to virtually test the machine while working. Once a problem is identified, a technician can fix it the first time, saving time and money.(if equipped)
  • Cat Grade with advanced 2D and 3D technologies combine advanced guidance with optional automated machine control helping you reach grading targets while reducing fuel burn and greenhouse gas emissions by improving efficiency, job site productivity, and accuracy. (if equipped).
*Engines with no aftertreatment devices can use higher blends, up to 100% biodiesel. (for use of blends higher than 20% biodiesel, consult your Cat dealer)
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Weights

Note (2)
**Maximum Weight is based on steel tracks with rubber pads, counterweight, operator, full fuel tank, standard stick, blade and no bucket.
Note
*Maximum Weight is based on steel tracks with rubber pads, counterweight, operator, full fuel tank, standard stick, blade and no bucket.
Minimum Operating Weight with Cab*
19304lb
Operating Weight
21477lb
Maximum Operating Weight with Cab**
20731lb
Maximum Operating Weight with Cab*
21054lb
Note (1)
*Minimum Weight is based on rubber tracks, no counterweight, operator, full fuel tank, standard stick, blade and no bucket.
Minimum Operating Weight*
20121lb
Maximum Operating Weight*
21477lb

Certification - Cab

Tip Over Protective Structure (TOPS)
ISO 12117:1997
Roll Over Protective Structure (ROPS)
ISO 12117-2:2008
Top Guard
ISO 10262:1998 (Level II)

Dimensions - Long Stick

Maximum Blade Depth
26.9in
Maximum Dump Clearance
199.4in
Maximum Dig Height
276.8in
O/A Undercarriage Length
126in
O/A Shipping Length
262.3in
Boom In Reach
126.6in
Transport Height
99in
Cab Height
99in
Maximum Blade Height
13.5in
Track Belt/Shoe Width
17.7in
Maximum Reach
300.7in
Tail Swing with Counterweight
64.8in
Tail Swing without Counterweight
57.1in
Swing Bearing - Height
28.7in
Ground Clearance
13.5in
Boom Swing - Left
24in
Boom Swing - Right
37in
Maximum Reach - Ground Level
293.8in
Vertical Wall
134.3in
O/A Track Width
97.2in
Stick Length
92.8in
Dig Depth
183.1in

Dimensions - VAB Out

Dig Depth
136.2in
Transport Height
97.4in
Boom Swing Left
24in
Boom Swing Right
37in
Stick Length
71.7in
Maximum Blade Height
16.1in
Tail Swing without Counterweight
57.1in
Maximum Reach at Ground Level
303.7in
Maximum Dig Height
322in
Maximum Blade Depth
19.1in
Overall Shipping Length
255.7in
Ground Clearance
14in
Overall Undercarriage Length
126in
Tail Swing with Counterweight
62.4in
Overall Track Width
97.2in
Track Belt/Shoe Width
17.7in
Maximum Reach
310.4in
Maximum Dump Clearance
247.4in
Swing Bearing Height
29.8in
Vertical Wall
146.7in
Boom in Reach
106.7in
Cab Height
100in

Blade

Width - Standard
97.2in
Width - Wide
103.9in
Height
17in

Dimensions - VAB In

Boom Swing Left
24in
Maximum Dig Height
205.5in
Maximum Reach at Ground Level
248in
Boom in Reach
122.8in
Maximum Dump Clearance
135.8in
Overall Shipping Length
255.7in
Overall Track Width
97.2in
Boom Swing Right
37in
Transport Height
97.4in
Maximum Blade Depth
19.1in
Cab Height
100in
Dig Depth
150.2in
Track Belt/Shoe Width
17.7in
Tail Swing with Counterweight
62.4in
Ground Clearance
14in
Overall Undercarriage Length
126in
Swing Bearing Height
29.8in
Vertical Wall
99.2in
Tail Swing without Counterweight
57.1in
Maximum Reach
256.5in
Stick Length
71.7in
Maximum Blade Height
16.1in

Engine

Bore
3.7in
Rated Net Power - 2,200 rpm - U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final - ISO 9249/EEC 80/1269
70.3HP
Stroke
4.7in
Gross Power - ISO 14396
74.3HP
Displacement
203in³
Engine Model
Cat C3.3B
Net Power
69.5HP
Rated Net Power - 2,200 rpm - EU Stage V - ISO 9249/EEC 80/1269
71.5HP
Gross Power - SAE J1995
74.3HP
Note
Net power advertised is the power available at the flywheel when the engine is equipped with air cleaner, exhaust system and fan.
Net Power - 2,200 rpm - ISO 9249:2007, 80/1269/EEC
69.5HP
Engine Model - U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final/EU Stage V
Cat C3.3B

Sound

Note
European Union Directive "2000/14/EC"
Operator Sound Pressure (ISO 6396:2008)
72dB(A)
Average Exterior Sound Pressure (ISO 6395:2008)
99dB(A)

Air Conditioning System

Air Conditioning
The air conditioning system on this machine contains the fluorinated greenhouse gas refrigerant R134a (Global Warming Potential = 1430). The system contains 1.0 kg of refrigerant which has a CO2 equivalent of 1.430 metric tonnes.

Travel System

Gradeability - Maximum
30 degrees
Maximum Traction Force - High Speed
6497lbf
Maximum Traction Force - Low Speed
19064lbf
Ground Pressure - Maximum Weight
5.5psi
Travel Speed - Low
1.6mile/h
Travel Speed - High
3.1mile/h
Ground Pressure - Minimum Weight
5.1psi

Weight Increase from Minimum Configuration

Counterweight
552lb
Steel Tracks with Pads
728lb
Long Stick
146lb
Standard Stick
77lb

Service Refill Capacities

Hydraulic Tank
14gal (US)
Cooling System
2.6gal (US)
Engine Oil
3gal (US)
Hydraulic System
29gal (US)
Fuel Tank
39gal (US)

Dimensions - Standard Stick

Track Belt/Shoe Width
17.7in
O/A Undercarriage Length
126in
Ground Clearance
13.5in
Maximum Blade Depth
26.9in
Vertical Wall
118in
Dig Depth
162in
Tail Swing without Counterweight
57.1in
Maximum Dig Height
264.9in
Boom Swing - Right
37in
O/A Track Width
97.2in
Boom Swing - Left
24in
Maximum Reach - Ground Level
273.6in
Tail Swing with Counterweight
64.8in
Boom In Reach
120.4in
O/A Shipping Length
259in
Maximum Blade Height
13.5in
Maximum Dump Clearance
187.1in
Cab Height
99in
Transport Height
97.9in
Maximum Reach
281.1in
Stick Length
71.8in
Swing Bearing - Height
28.7in

Hydraulic System

Operating Pressure - Equipment
4134psi
Pump Flow at 2,400 rpm
62gal/min
Digging Force - Bucket
13946lbf
Auxiliary Circuit - Secondary - Flow
9gal/min
Operating Pressure - Travel
4134psi
Digging Force - Stick - Long
8023lb
Operating Pressure - Swing
3626psi
Auxiliary Circuit - Primary (High Flow) - Flow
37gal/min
Auxiliary Circuit - Secondary - Pressure
4134psi
Digging Force - Stick - Standard
9509lbf
Type
Load Sensing Hydraulics with Variable Displacement Piston Pump
Auxiliary Circuit - Primary (High Flow) - Pressure
4134psi
Note
Flow and pressure are not combinable. Under load, as flow rises pressure goes down.
Maximum Auxiliary Circuit - Secondary - Flow at Pump
9gal/min
Maximum Auxiliary Circuit - Secondary - Pressure at Pump
4134psi
Maximum Auxiliary Circuit - Primary - Flow at Pump
35gal/min
Maximum Auxiliary Circuit - Primary - Pressure at Pump
4134psi
Maximum Auxiliary Circuit - Primary (High Flow) - Pressure at Pump
4134psi
Maximum Auxiliary Circuit - Primary (High Flow) - Flow at Pump
37gal/min
Digging Force - Stick (Short)
9217lbf

Specifications

Note
The 309 CR VAB specifications are based on a machine configured with a Long (L) Undercarriage. For specifications representing a 309 CR VAB with a Standard Undercarriage, please refer to the 308 CR information.

Swing System

Machine Swing Speed
10.6r/min
Boom Swing - Left
60 degrees
Boom Swing - Right
50 degrees

Dimensions - Short Stick - VAB In

Ground Clearance
14in
Maximum Reach
253.1in
Transport Height
91.7in
Tail Swing without Counterweight
57.1in
Track Belt/Shoe Width
17.7in
Boom Swing Left
24in
Maximum Reach at Ground Level
244.5in
Maximum Dump Clearance
138.2in
Overall Track Width
97.2in
Overall Shipping Length
255.3in
Tail Swing with Counterweight
62.4in
Cab Height
100in
Dig Depth
145.7in
Maximum Blade Height
16.1in
Swing Bearing Height
29.8in
Maximum Dig Height
208.7in
Vertical Wall
95.9in
Maximum Blade Depth
19.1in
Boom Swing Right
37in
Overall Undercarriage Length
126in
Stick Length
65.6in
Boom in Reach
122.4in

Dimensions - Short Stick - VAB Out

Cab Height
100in
Overall Track Width
97.2in
Tail Swing with Counterweight
62.4in
Maximum Reach at Ground Level
298.2in
Overall Undercarriage Length
126in
Boom Swing Left
24in
Vertical Wall
138.2in
Swing Bearing Height
29.8in
Transport Height
91.7in
Overall Shipping Length
255.3in
Ground Clearance
14in
Maximum Reach
305.1in
Boom Swing Right
37in
Boom in Reach
96.9in
Tail Swing without Counterweight
57.1in
Maximum Blade Height
16.1in
Dig Depth
130.1in
Stick Length
65.6in
Track Belt/Shoe Width
17.7in
Maximum Dig Height
316.7in
Maximum Blade Depth
19.1in
Maximum Dump Clearance
242.5in

Sustainability

Recyclability
96%

Standard/Optional Features

Standard Equipment:

  • Engine
    • Cat C3.3 Diesel Engine (U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final/EU Stage V) – Electronic Engine, Turbo, Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)
    • Automatic Engine Idle
    • Automatic Engine Shutdown
    • Automatic Swing Brake
    • Automatic Two Speed Travel
    • Fuel Water Separator with Indicator
    • Radial Seal – Double Element Air Filter
    • Extended Life Coolant, –37° C (–35° F)
    • Ecology Drain
  • Hydraulics
    • Smart Tech Electronic Pump
    • Electronic Variable Displacement Piston Pump
    • Load Sensing/Flow Sharing Hydraulics
    • Power On Demand
    • Hydraulic Temperature Monitoring
    • Certified Accumulator
    • HYDO Advanced Hydraulic Oil
    • Dedicated Auxiliary Hydraulic Pump
  • Operator Environment
    • Top Guard ISO 10262 1998 Level I
    • ROPS ISO 12117-2:2008
    • Sealed and Pressurized Cab
    • Stick Steer Mode
    • Travel Cruise Control
    • Control Pattern Changer
    • Adjustable Wrist Rests
    • Molded Footrests
    • Removable, Washable Floor Mat
    • Travel Pedals and Hand Levers
    • Cat Key with Passcode Option
    • HVAC with Automatic Temperature Control
    • Hydraulic Lockout Controls
    • Integrated Lower Front Window
    • Assisted Front Window Overhead Storage
    • Rear Window Emergency Exit
    • Fabric, High Back, Suspension Seat
    • Retractable Seat Belt (75 mm/3 in)
    • Coat Hook
    • Cup Holder
    • LED Interior Light
    • Literature Holder
    • Mounting Bosses for Top and Front Guards
    • 12V Power Socket
    • Radio – Bluetooth, Auxiliary, Microphone, USB (charging only)
    • Skylight
    • Signaling/Warning Horn
    • Cab and (left side) Boom Work Lights
    • Utility Space for Mobile Phone
    • Next Generation Color LCD Monitor (IP66)
      – Jog Dial Interface
      – Fuel Level and Coolant Temperature Gauges
      – Maintenance and Machine Monitoring
      – Performance and Machine Adjustments
      – Numeric Security Code
      – Multiple Languages
      – Camera Ready (IP68 & IP69K)
      – Hour Meter with Wake Up Switch
  • Undercarriage
    • Greased and Lubricated Track
    • Hydraulic Track Adjusters
    • Tie Down Eyes on Track Frame
    • Dozer Blade
    • Dozer Float
    • Bolt-on, Reversible Wear Edge
  • Boom, Stick And Linkages
    • Variable Angle Boom
    • Standard Stick (1820 mm/71.7 in)
    • Front Shovel Capable – Pin-on/Manual Coupler/Hydraulic Coupler (not available in all regions)
    • Thumb Ready (not available in all regions)
  • Electrical
    • 12 Volt Electrical System
    • 90 Ampere Alternator
    • Circuit Breaker
    • 850 CCA Maintenance Free Battery
    • Battery Disconnect
    • Ignition Key Stop Switch
  • Other
    • Locks on External Enclosure Doors
    • Lockable Fuel Cap
    • Beacon Socket
    • Rear Reflectors

Optional Equipment:

  • Operator Environment
    • Push to Start with Bluetooth® Key
    • Air Suspension Heated Seat
    • Rain Visor
    • Next Generation Advanced Monitor (below are all included with Next Generation Advanced Monitor option)
      – Touch Screen
      – Site Reference System
      – High Definition Camera Capable (IP68 & IP69K)
      – Numeric Security Code
  • Undercarriage
    • Wide Dozer Blade
    • Steel Tracks (450 mm/17.7 in wide)
    • Wide Steel Tracks (600 mm/23.6 in)
    • Steel Track with Rubber Pads
    • Track Guides
  • Boom, Stick And Linkages
    • Attachments including Buckets, Augers and Hammers
    • 2nd Auxiliary Hydraulic Lines
    • Boom Lowering Check Valve
    • Stick Lowering Check Valve
    • Certified Lifting Eye
  • Electrical
    • Product Link Elite (regulations apply)
    • Travel Alarm
    • Rearview Camera
    • Rotating Beacon
  • Guarding
    • Mesh Front Guard ISO 10262 1998 Level I
    • Heavy Duty Front Guard ISO 10262 1998 Level II
    • Overhead Cab Guard ISO 10262 1998 Level II
    • Polycarbonate Front Window EN356 P5A
    • Track Guards
  • Other
    • Additional Counterweight
    • Water Jacket Heater
    • Refueling Pump

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Operating Weight
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