by Kyle Molyneux | Tue 15 Dec 2020
New Cat M316 wheeled excavator
Caterpillar has taken the wraps off a new wheeled excavator to replace the M316F model. The Cat M316 Next Generation machine features advanced hydraulics and up to 14% more swing torque, while auxiliary hydraulic options allow the use a wide range of Cat attachments. Its dedicated swing pump provides consistent power to the machine for improved multitasking capabilities, too.
The new M316 is powered by a Stage 5 (US EPA Tier 4 Final) emissions compliant Cat C4.4 engine making 148hp, which is good enough for a 35km/h (21.7 mph) top speed. Cat says its new wheeled excavator has no problem working in ambient temperatures as high as 52C, and cold-starting in temperatures as low as -18C.
Caterpillar’s new M316 has an operating weight range of 17 to 18.4 tonnes. Its maximum digging depth is 5.6m, its maximum reach at ground level 8.9m and its maximum loading height 7.1m. In the cab, operators are treated to a push-button starter via a Bluetooth key fob and a 10-inch touchscreen monitor. Operators can program power mode and joystick configuration to their preferences, and the excavator remembers each operator’s settings on start-up. Auto axle lock detects when the service brake must be locked or unlocked and releases it automatically when the travel pedal is pressed, reducing the number of actions required by the operator.
Deluxe and premium cab designs are available for the new M316, and both are more spacious and offer improved entry/exit through the new tip-up left control console and tilting steering column when compared with the outgoing F series machine. Advanced viscous mounts reduce vibration feedback to the cab by up to 50% to cut down on operator fatigue. The deluxe cab features a seat that is heated and air-adjustable, while the premium seat is heated and cooled, plus it adjusts automatically. Cat says the new low-profile engine hood design, large front, rear and side windows, and small cab pillars improve all-round visibility, too.
A number of Next Gen design upgrades allow the new M316 wheeled excavator to provide up to 10% savings in maintenance compared to the M316F, reckons Cat. All fuel filters have a synchronised, 1,000-hour change interval, doubling the filter life. Its new hydraulic oil filter delivers improved filtration and a 50% longer change interval at 3,000 operating hours for reduced maintenance. Two-level fuel filtration helps to better protect diesel fuel purity to improve machine uptime reliability. The operator tracks filter life and maintenance intervals on the in-cab touchscreen monitor, aiding in machine maintenance planning.
A ground-level shut-off switch stops all fuel to the engine and shuts down the machine, enhancing servicing safety. All daily maintenance checkpoints are made from ground level, improving convenience and safety for service technicians. Further simplifying maintenance, Cat SOS ports are also accessed from ground level for sample fluid extraction. Anti-skid punch plate stairs provide access to the upper-level service platform and help prevent slipping.
Standard Product Link technology on the new M316 wheeled excavator provides managers critical machine operating data such as location, hours, fuel usage, idle time and diagnostics codes to boost fleet management efficiency. Reported excavator data is accessed on demand wherever an internet connection is available through VisionLink or the Cat App.
New remote diagnostics tools available for the M316 help save service trips to the jobsite to increase machine servicing efficiency. Remotely performing diagnostics testing without impacting machine productivity, new Remote Troubleshoot allows dealer technicians to detect potential issues by analysing real-time machine data captured by Product Link. Companies can now download and install the most current version of on-board software for the M316 when it’s most convenient using new Remote Flash technology.
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