312C L^Non-Current

Torque Rise

The engine is designed for high torque rise at middle rpm, a feature that is especially beneficial for heavy-duty use.

Automatic Engine Control

Automatic Engine Control with convenient one-touch command. Three-stage control maximizes fuel efficiency and reduces sound levels.

Maintenance

The oil level gauge, oil filter, fuel filter and priming pump are located on the right side of the upper structure for easy maintenance. The engine oil filter and fuel filter change intervals have been extended.

Crankshaft

Eight balance, one-piece, forged crankshaft enhances balance and decreases vibration and is induction hardened to improve abrasion resistance.

Pistons

Heat resistant aluminum alloy pistons have a short compression height, reducing weight and improving efficiency.

Fuel Consumption

The 3064 T engine has the best fuel consumption in this class of diesel engines. It features improved thermal efficiency and reduced friction resistance between piston and liners.

Air Intake Heating

Air intake heating is standard on the 312C L for easier cold starts.

Component Layout

The 312C hydraulic system was designed to provide a high level of efficiency. With all major components located close together, shorter tubes and lines are needed, resulting in less friction loss in the lines and reduced pressure drops.

Hydraulic Cross Sensing System

Improves productivity with faster implement speeds and quicker, stronger pivot turns.

Automatic Boom and Swing Priority

For simpler operation, work mode and power mode switches have been eliminated. Instead, the automatic boom and swing priority function selects the best mode, based on joystick movement.

Stackable Valves

Three types of stackable valves and one independent valve are available on the 312C and attached directly to the main control valve. Up to two stackable valves can be used in combination with the main control valve to provide a variety of different functions.

Controllability

The hydraulic system offers precise control to the 312C, reducing operator fatigue and improving operator effectiveness and efficiency, which ultimately translates into enhanced performance.

Auxiliary Hydraulic Valve

The auxiliary hydraulic valve is standard on the 312C for use with optional hydraulic circuits.

Hydraulic Snubbers

Hydraulic cylinder snubbers at the rod-end of boom cylinders and both ends of the stick cylinders cushion shocks, reduce sound and increase cylinder life.

Structures

The 312C structural components and undercarriage are the backbone of the machine's durability.

Carbody Design and Track Roller Frames

X-shaped, box-section carbody provides excellent resistance to torsional bending. Robot-welded track roller frames are press-formed, pentagonal units to deliver exceptional strength and service life.

Rollers and Idlers

Sealed and lubricated track rollers, carrier rollers and idlers provide excellent service life, keeping the machine in the field longer.

Main Frame

The rugged main frame is designed for maximum durability and efficient use of materials.

Grease Lubricated Track

New grease lubricated seals protect the track link and deliver long track link pin and bushing inner wear life.

Travel Motors

Automatic speed selection enables the machine to automatically change up and down from high and low speeds in a smooth, controlled manner.

Idler Guard

An idler guard, which is integral to the track roller frame, is standard. This guard helps maintain track alignment while traveling or working on slopes.

Blades

For further versatility and to meet more general purpose needs, three blade width options are available on the 312C.

Front Linkage

Front linkage variations on the 312C allow for the use of one boom, two sticks and five buckets. Using these combinations improves the general-purpose versatility of the 312C by suiting it to a diverse range of applications.

Boom

The boom on the 312C is designed to provide maximum digging capability. Caterpillar booms are manufactured with high-tensile steel for upper, lower and side plates and robot welded for consistent quality.

Stick

Two sticks are available on the 312C. The customer's working envelope and bucket capacity needs determine their stick choice.

Boom and Stick Construction

Built for performance and long service life, Caterpillar booms and sticks are large, welded, box-section structures with thick, multi-plate fabrications in high-stress areas.

Buckets

High tensile strength steel is used in high-stress areas for excellent wear and shock resistance. The side plates are tapered to prevent contact of the bucket sidewalls during trenching operations. All buckets are general purpose, share a common side profile and have lifting eyes.

Bucket Linkage

The bucket linkage on the 312C includes the bucket cylinder, idler link and power links.

Bucket Flop Adjustment Mechanism

All 300 family excavator buckets are equipped with a bucket flop adjustment mechanism which allows the operator or serviceman to reduce the side play at the bucket to stick-nose connection. To reduce the play, or bucket slap, three bolts on each side of the bucket hinge pin are loosened and the cover removed. Shims, already in the bucket adjustment mechanism, can be removed to reduce bucket slap.

Linkage Bearings

New bearing technology has extended the front linkage greasing intervals for all bearings.

Operator Environment

The 312C operator work station is quiet, with ergonomic control placement and convenient adjustments, low lever and pedal effort, ergonomic seat design and highly efficient ventilation.

Monitor

New, compact monitor enhances viewing while displaying a variety of easy-to-read and understand language-based information.

Automatic Boom and Swing Priority Function

For simpler operation, work mode and power mode switches have been eliminated. Instead, the automatic boom and swing priority function selects the best mode, based on joystick movement.

Redesigned Layout

Redesigned cab layout emphasizes simplicity and ease of use. Right-hand wall and console provide easy access to all switches, dials and controls.

Travel Controls

A large rubber-covered footrest at the side of the travel pedals allows the foot to easily grip the pedal. The travel lever stroke and force have been enhanced to improve the 312C's fine controllability, making the machine easier to operate.

Seat

A new seat with a two-tone color offers two types of cushions - soft and firm - for operator comfort. The reclining knob is located at the right-side of the seat for easier reclining adjustment.

Automatic Climate Control

Fully automatic climate control adjusts temperature and flow and determines which air outlet is best in each situation.

Skylight

A large polycarbonate skylight delivers excellent natural lighting and good ventilation. Standard sliding sunshade protects from direct sunlight.

Cab Exterior

The 312C's cab is newly designed using asymmetrical steel tubing for improved resistance to fatigue and vibration. Falling Object Guard System (FOGS) may be bolted-on directly to the cab.

Cab Mounts

The cab shell is attached to the frame with improved viscous mounts, reducing vibration and sound.

Wiper

With continuous and intermittent modes, the wiper is positioned on the right cab pillar to further improve the operator's viewing area.

Clear View Over the Engine

The engine hood has been redesigned to improve the operator's rear viewing area.

Hydraulic Actuation Control Lever

Upper Front Windshield

Lower Front Windshield

Extended Service Intervals

312C service and maintenance intervals have been extended to reduce machine service time and increase machine availability.

Radiator Compartment

The left rear service door allows easy access to the engine radiator and the oil cooler. A reserve tank and drain cock are attached to the radiator for simplified maintenance.

Air Filter Compartment

The air filter features a double-element construction for superior cleaning efficiency. When the air cleaner plugs, a warning is displayed on the monitor screen inside the cab.

Ground Level Service

The design and layout of the 312C was made with the service technician in mind. Many service locations are easily accessible at ground level allowing critical maintenance to get done quickly and efficiently.

Swing-Out Oil Cooler

The oil cooler swings out horizontally for excellent cleaning.

Pump Compartment

A service door on the right side of the upper structure allows ground-level access to the pump and pilot filter.

Capsule Filter

The hydraulic return filter, a capsule filter, is situated outside the hydraulic tank. This filter prevents contaminants from entering the system when hydraulic oil is changed, keeping the operation clean.

Anti-Skid

Anti-skid punched-star plate covers the top of storage box and upper structure to prevent slipping during maintenance. The plate can be removed for cleaning.

Engine Inspection

Engine can be accessed from the upper structure or from under the machine. The engine and pump compartment are separated by a steel wall.

Handrails and Steps

Larger handrails and steps assist operator in climbing on and off machine.

Grease-lubricated Track

Grease-lubricated seals protect the track link and deliver long track link pin and bushing inner wear life.

Fan Guard

Engine radiator fan is completely enclosed by fine wire mesh, reducing the risk of an accident.

Selection

Make detailed comparisons of the machines you are considering before you buy. What are the job requirements? What production is needed? What is the true cost of lost production? Your Cat dealer can give you precise answers to these questions.

Purchase

Look past initial price, look at the value the 312C offers. Consider the financing options available as well as day-to-day operating costs.

Operation

Improving operating techniques can boost your profits. Your Cat dealer has training literature and other ideas to help you increase productivity.

Maintenance

Repair option programs guarantee the cost of repairs up front. Diagnostic programs such as Scheduled Oil Sampling and Technical Analysis help you avoid unscheduled repairs.

Replacement

Repair, rebuild or replace? Your Cat dealer can help you evaluate the cost involved so you can make the right choice.

Product Support

You will find nearly all parts at our dealer parts counter. Cat dealers utilize a worldwide computer network to find in-stock parts to minimize machine down time. You will save money with remanufactured components.