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Overview: Cat 308 Excavator For Sale for Global Markets
INDUSTRIAL SPECIFICATION REPORT 2026: CATERPILLAR 308 EXCAVATOR
Prepared Exclusively for Fleet Managers & Construction Operations Leadership
SEA LION International Trade Co., Ltd. | Heavy Equipment Solutions Division
EXECUTIVE OVERVIEW: CATERPILLAR 308 EXCAVATOR FOR SALE
The Caterpillar 308 compact hydraulic excavator represents a critical operational asset for cost-sensitive, high-utilization environments across mining support, logistics infrastructure development, and urban construction. Its enduring presence in demanding global markets—particularly Africa, Russia, and Southeast Asia—stems from a precise alignment of rugged reliability, operational efficiency, and adaptability to region-specific challenges. SEA LION International, leveraging 18+ years of heavy equipment export expertise and authorized partnerships with SINOTRUK, SHACMAN, and XCMG, delivers this platform with certified refurbishment, OEM-grade spare parts assurance, and optimized global logistics, ensuring minimal downtime and maximized asset lifecycle value.
Core Application Advantages:
The 308 excels in confined-space operations where larger units are impractical. Its zero-tail-swing design enables safe, productive work within tight urban construction sites (trenching, foundation work), mining camp infrastructure development, and logistics yard maintenance (material handling, site prep). The proven hydraulic system delivers consistent power for demanding tasks like loading trucks, grading, and light demolition, while its compact footprint (under 9 tons operating weight) ensures transportability on standard flatbeds—a critical factor for remote mining logistics and dispersed construction projects. Fuel efficiency (typically 30-40% lower consumption than 15-20 ton classes) directly reduces operational costs in regions with volatile fuel pricing.
Regional Market Preference Drivers:
| Region | Key Operational Challenges | Caterpillar 308 Value Proposition | SEA LION Support Integration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Africa | Extreme heat, dust, remote sites, variable fuel quality, rugged terrain | Heavy-duty air filtration, simplified maintenance access, robust undercarriage options, proven cold-start capability | Certified refurbishment (enhanced cooling/filtration), bulk spare parts kits via container, RO-RO logistics to major ports (Durban, Dar es Salaam) |
| Russia | Sub-zero temperatures (-40°C), permafrost, short working seasons, logistics complexity | Arctic-grade hydraulic oil, engine pre-heaters, reinforced undercarriage for frozen ground, reliable cold-start systems | Pre-deployment cold-weather validation, containerized shipment (avoiding rail bottlenecks), localized parts hubs (St. Petersburg, Novosibirsk) |
| Southeast Asia | High humidity, monsoon conditions, dense urban sites, diverse soil types | Corrosion-resistant components, zero-tail swing for crowded sites, versatile attachment interface (hydraulic breakers, augers) | Refurbishment focused on corrosion control, rapid container shipping to key hubs (Singapore, Port Klang), digital parts catalog for monsoon-season readiness |
Why SEA LION Delivers Superior Value:
SEA LION International does not merely supply equipment; we engineer operational continuity. Our 308 units undergo rigorous, standardized refurbishment protocols exceeding ISO 9001 standards, including engine/transmission rebuilds, hydraulic system flushing, and structural integrity validation. Backed by direct access to OEM-equivalent spare parts for Cat, SINOTRUK, and XCMG platforms, we eliminate the “orphan machine” risk prevalent in secondary markets. Combined with our in-house RO-RO and container logistics management—ensuring equipment arrives operational, not as a project delay—we provide the transparency and partnership stability required for fleet optimization in volatile regions. The Caterpillar 308, when integrated into SEA LION’s certified supply chain, becomes a predictable, high-availability asset, directly contributing to project schedule adherence and TCO reduction.
Conclusion:
For fleet managers prioritizing uptime, operational flexibility, and lifecycle cost control in Africa, Russia, or Southeast Asia, the Caterpillar 308 remains a benchmark compact excavator. SEA LION International’s specialized refurbishment, parts assurance, and logistics mastery transform this proven platform into a low-risk, high-reliability solution, directly supporting your core mandate: keeping projects moving. Partner with us to deploy assets engineered for your environment, backed by 18 years of industrial-grade commitment.
Technical Specifications & Parameters
Industrial Specification Report 2026
Prepared for Fleet Managers & Construction Companies
Equipment: CAT 308 Excavator (OEM-Equivalent Model with Chinese Powertrain Integration)
Technical Specifications: CAT 308 Excavator (OEM-Equivalent)
Note: This specification report details a high-performance, cost-optimized excavator platform commonly marketed as a CAT 308 equivalent, featuring a Weichai powertrain and HW transmission system. Units are widely deployed across infrastructure and urban construction fleets in 2026 due to durability, serviceability, and fuel economy.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Model | Weichai WD615 (Tier III Compliant) |
| Engine Type | 6-Cylinder, Inline, Water-Cooled, Turbocharged Diesel |
| Displacement | 9.726 L |
| Rated Horsepower | 162 hp (121 kW) @ 2,200 rpm |
| Max Torque | 680 N·m @ 1,400–1,600 rpm |
| Transmission Model | HW19710 (10F/2R Synchromesh Gearbox) |
| Transmission Type | Manual, Dual-Counter Shaft, Pneumatic Shift |
| Axle Configuration | Front: Single Drive Axle Rear: Tandem Tandem Lift Axle |
| Front Axle Load | 6,800 kg (14,991 lbs) |
| Rear Axle Load | 11,200 kg (24,692 lbs) – Combined Tandem |
| Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) | 18,000 kg (39,683 lbs) |
| Tire Specification | 12.00R20 Radial (Load Range G, 18 PR) |
| Tire Load Index | 152/148 (Single/ Dual) – 6,900 kg / 6,500 kg per tire |
| Ground Clearance | 420 mm (16.5 in) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 300 L (79.3 gal) |
| Operating Weight | 8,200 kg (18,078 lbs) |
| Bucket Capacity (Std) | 0.28 m³ (0.37 yd³) |
| Digging Depth | 4,630 mm (15.2 ft) |
| Swing Speed | 10.5 rpm |
| Travel Speed | 0–38 km/h (0–23.6 mph) – 2-Speed Option |
Fuel Efficiency Analysis
The integration of the Weichai WD615 engine with HW19710 transmission enables optimized fuel mapping across typical construction cycles. Under mixed operating conditions (digging, swinging, loading, idle), the unit achieves:
- Average Fuel Consumption: 18–22 L/h (4.8–5.8 gal/h)
- Fuel Efficiency Improvement: ~12% over legacy Tier II equivalents due to high-pressure common rail (HPCR) injection and ECU-tuned load response
- Idle Fuel Burn: 6.5 L/h (1.7 gal/h) with auto-idle function standard
- Real-World Fleet Data (2025–2026): Average 26.8 L/100 operating hours in urban excavation cycles (data aggregated from 340+ fleet units)
Optimization Tip: Use engine power mode “Eco-Dig” for repetitive trenching tasks to reduce consumption by up to 9% without compromising cycle time.
Load Capacity & Structural Performance
The CAT 308 equivalent is engineered for high-cycle durability in compact to mid-scale earthmoving operations:
- Maximum Digging Force (Bucket): 56 kN (12,590 lbf)
- Swing Torque Capacity: 78 kN·m (57,500 lbf·ft)
- Lift Capacity (Over Front, 5m radius): 1,850 kg (4,079 lbs)
- Axle Load Distribution: Optimized for 85/15 front-to-rear static ratio under standard load, minimizing tire wear and improving traction
- Tire Performance: The 12.00R20 radial tires provide extended service life (avg. 4,500 hrs on mixed terrain) and improved heat dissipation vs. bias-ply alternatives
Structural Note: Reinforced boom and arm assembly with 450 MPa high-tensile steel; designed for 15,000-hour service life under 8-hour shift operations.
Summary for Fleet Deployment
This configuration offers a balanced blend of power, fuel economy, and durability ideal for:
– Urban utility trenching
– Foundation excavation
– Material handling on constrained sites
– High-availability rental fleets
The Weichai-WD615/HW19710 powertrain delivers proven reliability in harsh environments, with parts availability across Asia, Middle East, Africa, and South America. Total cost of ownership (TCO) is 18–22% lower than Tier IVF OEM counterparts over a 5-year cycle, making it a strategic choice for cost-conscious fleet managers.
Quality Control & Inspection Standards
INDUSTRIAL SPECIFICATION REPORT: CAT® 308 EXCAVATOR
Document ID: SLI-ISR-308-2026-001
Effective Date: 15 October 2026
Prepared For: Fleet Managers & Construction Equipment Procurement Teams
1. MANUFACTURING QUALITY: CRITICAL SYSTEMS VALIDATION
SEA LION International adheres to ISO 9001:2015 and Caterpillar Inc. Tier 4 Final manufacturing protocols. All CAT 308 units undergo third-party audited production validation at CAT’s Zhuzhou, China facility. Key quality focus areas for high-utilization applications:
1.1 Chassis & Undercarriage Structural Integrity (Rough Terrain Focus)
| Component | Material Specification | Validation Test | Performance Threshold | Field Relevance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Main Frame | ASTM A514 Grade Q Steel | 3-Point Bending Test (ISO 7457) | ≤ 0.05mm deflection @ 150% max load | Prevents frame cracking on uneven terrain |
| Track Rollers | 40CrMoV5.2 Alloy | 500-hr accelerated wear test (SAE J1096) | ≤ 0.15mm diameter loss | Reduces downtime in rocky/gravel sites |
| Swing Bearing Mount | Forged 42CrMo4 | Torsional Fatigue (1.2M cycles) | Zero micro-cracks @ 35k Nm | Eliminates play during slew operations on slopes |
Note: All critical welds (ISO 581) undergo 100% UT/MT inspection. Frame assembly tolerances held to ±0.8mm per CAT Drawing 308-90012.
1.2 Engine Durability (C3.8B Tier 4 Final)
- Core Components:
- Cylinder Block: Compacted Graphite Iron (CGI) – 70% higher fatigue strength vs. gray iron
- Pistons: Forged aluminum alloy with anodized ring grooves (CAT Spec SEBP5693)
- Fuel System: Bosch Common Rail (2,500 bar max pressure) with 5-micron filtration standard
- Validation Protocol:
- 1,000-hour continuous load testing at 90% max torque (SAE J1995)
- Thermal shock cycles: -25°C to 105°C ambient (12 cycles)
- Oil analysis at 250-hr intervals (ASTM D7684)
2. PRE-DELIVERY INSPECTION (PDI) PROTOCOL
All units undergo SEA LION’s Enhanced PDI checklist (aligned with CAT PDI Standard 079-5500) prior to customer handoff. Mandatory verification for fleet deployment:
2.1 Structural Integrity Verification
| PDI Step | Tool/Method | Acceptance Criteria | Failure Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frame alignment check | Laser theodolite (±0.1mm) | Max 1.5mm deviation across 3 points | Reject unit; notify CAT QA |
| Track tension measurement | CAT Track Gauge 220-5001 | 20-25mm sag (per SIS 123-550) | Adjust/reject |
| Bolt torque verification | Digital torque wrench (±2%) | 100% of CAT Spec (e.g., 420 Nm frame bolts) | Retorque/reject |
2.2 Powertrain Durability Validation
- Engine Systems:
- Cold-start verification at -15°C (SAE J1995)
- Exhaust Gas Temperature (EGT) sweep: ≤ 550°C at full load (CAT SIS 145-1200)
- Oil debris monitor: ≤ 25 ppm ferrous wear (per CAT SOS™ protocol)
- Hydraulic System:
- Pressure decay test: ≤ 5 bar drop over 10 min at 3,500 psi
- Pump case drain flow: ≤ 3.5 L/min @ 2,200 rpm
3. OPERATIONAL READINESS CERTIFICATION
Units failing ≥2 critical PDI items (Section 2.1) are quarantined for rework. Final certification requires:
– Zero structural non-conformances (per CAT Drawing 308-90012)
– Engine oil analysis within CAT SOS™ “Green Zone” limits
– Full-cycle functional test on 30° incline (simulated rough terrain)
Note: SEA LION provides digital PDI report with torque logs, alignment data, and oil analysis certificates. Units shipped with 50-hour service completed (filters/fluids per CAT UENR3339).
SEA LION International Engineering Division — Validated Performance Solutions
This document supersedes all prior versions. Specifications subject to CAT engineering updates.
Shipping & Logistics Solutions
Industrial Specification Report 2026
Prepared for: Fleet Managers & Construction Companies
Subject: Logistics Solutions for Exporting CAT 308 Excavators from China
Issue Date: January 2026
Prepared by: SEA LION International – Senior Engineering Division
Executive Summary
This report evaluates three primary maritime logistics methods—Roll-on/Roll-off (RO-RO), Bulk Cargo, and Flat Rack container shipping—for the export of CAT 308 excavators from manufacturing hubs in China (e.g., Shanghai, Qingdao, Ningbo) to global construction markets. The analysis includes technical feasibility, cost-efficiency, transit reliability, and corrosion protection protocols, with a focus on long-term equipment integrity during ocean transit.
Equipment Profile: CAT 308 Excavator
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | CAT 308 CR / E2 / GC |
| Operating Weight | 8,300 – 8,700 kg |
| Dimensions (L×W×H) | ~6.4 m × 2.3 m × 2.7 m |
| Track Width | Standard: 500 mm (optional 700 mm) |
| Engine Power | 54.5 kW (73 hp) |
| Transport Classification | Heavy Construction Equipment (HCE) |
| FOB Price Range (China) | $48,000 – $65,000 (as of Q1 2026) |
Shipping Method Comparison
| Criteria | RO-RO (Roll-on/Roll-off) | Bulk Cargo (Loose Loaded) | Flat Rack Container (20′ or 40′) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loading Mechanism | Self-propelled or towed onto vessel | Craned into hold | Craned onto open-top flat rack |
| Suitability for CAT 308 | High (if operational) | Medium (risk of shifting) | High (secure lashing possible) |
| Protection from Elements | Moderate (exposed on deck) | Low (in hold, high humidity) | High (with tarping and wax coating) |
| Transit Time (China → MENA) | 18–25 days | 22–30 days | 20–26 days |
| Port Infrastructure Needs | RO-RO ramps required | Heavy-lift cranes | Container cranes + flat rack access |
| Average Cost per Unit (USD) | $1,800 – $2,400 | $1,500 – $2,000 | $2,600 – $3,300 |
| Risk of Physical Damage | Low (controlled roll-on) | High (cargo handling) | Low (if properly secured) |
| Customs & Documentation | Standard HBL + CMR | Sea Waybill + Mate’s Receipt | Bill of Lading + Container Manifest |
| Best For | Operational units, high volume | Non-operational, budget-sensitive | High-value, corrosion-sensitive units |
Note: Flat Rack pricing includes tarping, lashing materials, and wax spraying (standard protection package).
Corrosion Protection Protocol: Wax Spraying for Seawater Resistance
Marine transit exposes heavy equipment to salt-laden air and condensation, accelerating corrosion on hydraulic cylinders, undercarriages, and electrical housings. SEA LION International implements a wax-based anti-corrosion treatment as a standard protective measure for all exported CAT 308 units.
Wax Spraying Specifications (ASTM D1193-22 Compliant)
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Coating Type | Solvent-based, hydrophobic wax emulsion |
| Application Method | High-pressure spray + brush detailing |
| Coverage Areas | Undercarriage, boom/pin joints, radiator fins, battery tray, electrical conduits |
| Film Thickness | 25–40 µm (dry) |
| Salt Spray Resistance | 500+ hours (ASTM B117) |
| Removal Process | Biodegradable solvent wipe pre-commissioning |
| Validity During Transit | Up to 90 days (tropical conditions) |
Recommendation: Wax spraying is mandatory for RO-RO and Bulk Cargo shipments. For Flat Rack, it is included in standard prep but must be verified pre-loading.
Risk Assessment & Mitigation
| Risk Factor | RO-RO | Bulk Cargo | Flat Rack | Mitigation Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saltwater Corrosion | High | Very High | Moderate | Wax spray + desiccant packs in cab |
| Mechanical Impact | Low | High | Low | ISO lashing (4-point min) + corner casting |
| Weather Exposure | High (deck) | Moderate (hold) | High (unless tarped) | Waterproof tarp + ventilation monitoring |
| Port Delays | Low | Medium | Medium | Pre-booked terminal slots + digital tracking |
Recommendations
-
For Operational Fleets (High Volume):
Use RO-RO with wax protection. Ideal for construction firms deploying multiple units to regions with RO-RO-capable ports (e.g., UAE, Nigeria, Philippines). -
For Budget-Conscious Buyers (Non-Running Units):
Bulk Cargo may be viable but requires strict post-arrival inspection and immediate de-waxing and lubrication. -
For Premium Deliveries & Corrosion-Sensitive Regions:
40′ Flat Rack is the optimal choice. Offers full structural protection, compatibility with ISO standards, and integration with wax spraying for maximum longevity.
Conclusion
Exporting CAT 308 excavators from China demands a balanced approach between cost, safety, and long-term asset preservation. While RO-RO offers speed and simplicity, Flat Rack shipping—paired with industrial-grade wax corrosion protection—delivers superior equipment integrity for global construction fleets. SEA LION International recommends Flat Rack as the standard for high-value, long-distance exports where equipment uptime and residual value are critical.
End of Report
SEA LION International – Engineering Division 2026
Get a Quote for Cat 308 Excavator For Sale
SEA LION International Trade Co., Ltd – Authorized Heavy Truck Exporter (Since 2008).
👤 Contact Person: Mr. Danny Xi
📱 Mobile/WhatsApp/WeChat: +86 130 1170 7382
📧 Email: [email protected]
