318C L Hydraulic Excavator

Increased horsepower, better controllability, extended service intervals and a redesigned operator station increase your productivity and lower your operating costs.

Engine



The Cat 3066T engine is built for worldclass performance, power, reliability, economy and low emissions.

Torque Rise



The engine is designed for high torque rise at medium speeds a feature that is especially beneficial for heavyduty use.

Low Sound and Vibration Levels



The engine is attached to the main frame with four rubber mounts. These mounts reduce vibration transmitted to the frame and decrease sound levels.

Low Fuel Consumption



The 3066T engine offers the best fuel consumption in this class of diesel engine. It features improved thermal efficiency and reduced friction resistance between pistons and liners.

Maintenance Access



The oil level dipstick, oil filter, fuel filter and priming pump are located in front of the engine for easy maintenance. To reduce downtime, the engine oil filter and fuel filter change intervals have been extended. Valves for engine oil and coolant have been added on top of the engine to make fluid sampling easier.

Fuel System



Fuel injector pump and injector nozzle design provide starting ease and low sound and emission levels. The spinon Cat fuel filter makes replacement quick and easy. A standard fuel system water separator uses a filter to remove water from the fuel system.

Fuel Priming Pump



A large priming pump makes manual fuel system priming simple. The priming pump is located in the inlet manifold for easy access from the top service platform.

Governor Control Motor



The engine throttle is controlled electrically by the electric governor motor, which helps maintain optimal power, maximum fuel efficiency and lower sound levels. The microprocessor in the air cleaner room calculates the dial accelerator position and work conditions based on engine load and the control lever position.

Fuel System Water Separator



The standard fuel system water separator uses a filter to remove poor quality fuel and water from the fuel system. The water separator is located between the fuel tank and the engine. An optional water separator is available with a water level indicator in the cab. When this water separator is used, a warning lamp illuminates on the monitoring system, alerting the operator that the water level is too high.

Cooling System



A corrugatedwave fin, fourrow radiator design makes it easy to clean. A wire mesh screen that mounts in front of the radiator helps prevent clogging.

SwingOut Oil Cooler




Starting System



The standard machine has a 5 kW capacity starting motor, mounted on the left of the engine, and two genuine Cat batteries with 100 AH capacity.

Air Cleaner



The radial seal air filter features a doublelayered filter core for more efficient filtration.

Turbocharger



The turbocharger increases engine power and efficiency by compressing atmospheric air bound for the cylinders. Compressed air gives the engine more power because it allows the engine to burn additional fuel more efficiently.

Air Intake Heater



A standard engine air intake heater assists engine starting in cold weather.

Emission Countermeasure



The Cat 3066T meets all domestic emission control standards, U.S. EPA standards and European primary emission control standards.

High Ambient Cooling Package



Ambient working temperature for the standard 318C is 43C 109F. The optional high ambient cooling package has a 52C 125F capacity. The high ambient package attachment provides increased radiator fan speed and increased air inlet and outlet of side covers.

Cold Weather Starting Kit



The optional cold weather starting kit is designed to allow starting down to 25C 13F. This kit includes a battery with a larger capacity. The standard 318C allows starting to 18C 0.4F.

Remanufactured Components



Using remanufactured components reduces engine repair and maintenance costs. The following components are available as remanufactured 318C components injectors, heads, crankshafts, turbochargers, water pumps and starters.

Hydraulics



Cat hydraulics deliver power and precise control to keep material moving at high volume.

Precise Control



Hydraulics deliver smooth changes in speed and outstanding overall control, so operators remain comfortable and productive throughout the day.

Pilot System



The hydraulic pilot system controls the front linkage, swing and travel operations.

Pilot Control Valve



Pilot control valve operation is directly proportional to control lever movement, and pilot pressure operates the main control valve spool. This relationship between control lever movement and pilot pressure delivers outstanding operator control.

Component Layout



The 318C 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.

Flow Control System



When controls are in neutral position, flow is minimized resulting in longer component life and lower fuel consumption and sound levels.

Hydraulic CrossSensing System



The system utilizes the two main hydraulic pumps to maximize engine power under all operating conditions, resulting in faster implement speeds and pivot turns.

Boom and Stick Regeneration Circuit



Saves energy during boomdown and stickin operation, providing shorter cycle times and lower operating costs.

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.

Boom Priority



The boomup priority circuit is in effect when the boomup lever is at the point where the boom needs priority flow during combined operations. The boom receives maximum priority flow when the lever is at full shift. By setting gradually modulated boom priority, the 318C avoids boom jump due to sudden priority flow. The boom priority circuit greatly assists operators in digging to depths and working through small swing angles. Because boom priority varies in response to boom lever stroke, this mode meets a wide range of operating requirements.

Swing Priority



The swing priority circuit is in effect when the swing lever is at the point where swing requires priority flow. As with automatic boom priority, this system also has a modulation switch that gradually switches to give swing priority. By switching to the swing priority circuit, flow from one pump is dedicated to swing, so swing acceleration increases and interference with other actuators is minimized. The result is smooth swing operation. This mode is useful for truck loading, where a large swing angle makes it possible to achieve good swing acceleration, as well as in level finishing. Swing priority is also an advantage when higher swing torque is needed, such as during sidewall finishing when trenching.

BoomStick Drift Reducing Valves



Valves reduce the natural drift of the boom and stick, so lifted material will remain suspended for long periods with virtually no drift.

Reverse Swing Damping Valve



Standard reverse swingdamping valves reduce swing wag.

Auxiliary Hydraulic Valve



The auxiliary hydraulic valve is standard on the 318C for use with optional hydraulic circuits.

Stackable Valves



Up to two stackable valves can be used in combination with the main control valve, allowing additional tool circuits to be added.

Hydraulic Cylinder Snubbers



Snubbers are located at the rodend of the boom cylinders and both ends of the stick cylinders to cushion shocks while reducing sound levels and extending cylinder life.

Electronic Power Unit Control System



Protection of the Electronic Power Unit Control System 40EPC41 has been improved. Inputoutput terminals and electric terminals are fully protected so reverse connections or shorts do not affect the main unit.

Automatic Engine Speed Control



During noload and lighterload conditions, the automatic engine speed control reduces engine speed and is controlled by the EPC.

Fine Swing Control



A fine swing control mechanism is available as an attachment for applications requiring smoother movements at swing stop.

Front Linkage



Designed for maximum flexibility to keep productivity and efficiency high on all jobs.

Front Linkage Attachments



Allows the choice of one boom, three sticks and five buckets. Using these combinations makes the excavator productive in a wide range of applications.

Boom



The reach boom is designed to provide maximum digging capability. The boom features a boxsection design and hightensile strength steel for high durability and consistency.

Sticks



The customers working envelope and bucket capacity requirements determine stick choice. Three stick attachments are available a long stick to maximize reach, medium stick for the most versatile front linkage or short stick for a good digging envelope with large bucket sizes and good stability for hammer work. All sticks use a boxsection design made of high tensilestrength steel and a baffle plate.

Linkage Bearings



Selflubricated, sintered bearings greatly extend the greasing interval on front linkage pins by reducing pin friction. Greasing intervals on the bucket swing pin connection are also extended using a mesh bearing design.

Linkage Pin



All pins have thick chrome plating, making them resistant against galling and squealing. To smoothly distribute the shear and side loads associated with the stick, the diameter of each pin is made as large as possible.

Buckets



To meet customer needs, five bucket sizes are available for heavyduty applications. High tensilestrength steel is used in highstress areas for excellent wear and shock resistance. The side and bottom wear plates and cutting edges are reinforced for extra protection.

BucketFlop Adjustment Mechanism



Each Cat bucket is equipped with this feature, allowing the operator or service person to reduce the side play at the bucket to sticknose connection.

Compatibility



The 318C booms and sticks are identical to those on the proven 318B. The 318C and 318B buckets are also completely compatible. Buckets should be used within their recommended capacities and in applications for which they are designed.

Undercarriage



Durable undercarriage absorbs stresses and provides excellent stability.

Track Types



The 318C is available with two different track types long and long narrow.

Carbody and Track Roller Frame



Xshaped, boxsection carbody provides high rigidity and excellent resistance to torsional bending. The track frame is made from a pressformed pentagonal section for maximum strength and long service life.

GreaseLubricated Track



Greaselubricated seals protect the track link and provide longer wear life by helping to keep dirt and debris from entering the pin and bushing joint.

Roller Lubrication



All rollers, sprockets and idler joints are closed with floating seals. Lubricating oil from the seals prevents water and dirt from entering. The seals also make lubrication maintenancefree.

Travel Motors



Automatic speed selection enables the machine to automatically shift up and down from high and low speeds in a smooth, controlled manner. The 318C features increased drawbar pull for excellent maneuverability on slopes and in muddy underfoot conditions.

Travel Motor Piping



The hydraulic lines for the travel motors are routed inside the frame of the carbody to protect them from damage from rocks or debris.

Travel Motor Protection



Travel motors are protected by rigid covers. To reduce the potential for damage to the covers, they are flat with no protrusions.

Track Guards



The idler guard and bolton center guard are standard equipment. They help maintain track alignment while traveling or working on slopes. For applications that require additional track protection or alignment, optional guards are available.

StraightLine Travel Circuit



This circuit allows the 318C to maintain lowspeed, straightline travel, even when operating the front linkage. This circuit is especially useful when turning the upper structure while traveling, using a wrecking ball or similar tool, and for precise finishing or final leveling.

Final Drive



Twostage reduction planetary drives feature a complete drivebrake unit, delivering excellent performance, reliability and compact size.

Operator Station



Designed for simple, easy operation, the 318C allows the operator to focus on production.

Cab Design



The cab has been redesigned to maximize operator comfort and space. The air conditioner and attachment switches are conveniently located on the righthand wall, and the key switch and throttle dial are situated on the righthand console.

Monitor



The compact monitor enhances viewing while displaying a variety of easytoread and understand languagebased information.

Monitor Language Display



Twenty different languages are available for displaying information. The monitor can store up to seven languages at any one time.

Monitor Maintenance Information



The monitor displays the number of hours that filters and fluids have been used. The monitor also displays filter and oil change warnings when the number of hours used reaches the maintenance interval. These warnings are shown for five seconds following the prestart check. Hours must be manually reset when filters and oil are changed.

Setting Attachment Hydraulics



When using the attachment controllers, the monitor is capable of recording five hydraulic pump flow and hydraulic pressure settings for various tools. In order to operate pressure and flow settings, dealers provide passwords so these technical changes are only done by qualified personnel. Operators select from one of five settings. This function is very convenient because it eliminates the need to adjust the hydraulics every time a tool is changed and instantly provides the operator with the correct amount of flow and pressure for each tool.

Monitor Machine Information



The operator can use the monitor to obtain realtime readings on engine speed, main pump pressure and main pump power shift pressure. When the tool control system is in use, main pump negative control pressure information is displayed. In addition to vehicle working hours, the monitor displays engine, main pump and travel motor working hours.

Prestart Checking



When the operator activates the key switch, prestart check conditions are displayed on the monitor for two seconds. The prestart checking system gathers various information from the EPC before the engine starts. The system alerts the operator to low coolant, engine oil and hydraulic oil levels. When the engine key remains in the ON position for more than two seconds, the prestart monitoring system is activated. If actual fluid levels are lower than the preset levels, warning indicators are displayed. If low levels are detected for more than one fluid, warnings for each item are displayed one at a time every second. These warnings are displayed until five seconds after the engine starts.

Automatic Engine Speed Control Levels



The 318C has two AEC levels. When the AEC indicator on the monitor is OFF, the first stage AEC is selected. If a noload or lightload condition continues for more than three seconds, the EPC reduces engine speed by 100 rpm. When the AEC indicator is ON, the second stage AEC is selected. If a noload or lightload condition continues for more than three seconds, engine speed decreases to 1300 rpm.

OneTouch Low Idle Function



To reduce engine speed to 1020 rpm, the operator presses the switch at the top of the right control lever when the lever is in the neutral position. If the switch is pressed again or if the control lever is moved, engine speed returns to its previous level.

Cab Exterior



The new exterior design uses thick steel tubing, running from the rear to the bottom of the front of the cab for improved resistance to fatigue and vibration.

Cab Mounts



The cab shell is attached to the frame with viscous rubber cab mounts, reducing vibrations and sound levels for enhanced operator comfort.

Windows



The right side glass is attached directly to the window frame with adhesive for improved visibility. The upper front windshield opens, closes and stores above the operator with a onetouch action release system. The lower front windshield features a rounded design to maximize downward visibility.

RightSide Window



An enlarged rightside window offers improved visibility and lighting inside the cab without the obstruction of pillars. This window separates the operator from the hydraulic lines.

Optional Rear Window



An optional rear window with an external opening is offered in markets where such an exit is mandatory. The window is fixed however, the operator can release the window by pulling out the rubber seal if an alternate exit is needed.

Cab Door Window



The upper cab door window slides open, providing extra ventilation and allowing communication with people outside. The fixed lower window provides excellent visibility to the ground.

Left Rear Window



An enlarged left rear window improves operator awareness of the left rear of the machine.

Skylight



An enlarged skylight with sunshade improves visibility and provides good ventilation.

Wipers



Pillarmounted wipers increase the operators viewing area and offer continuous and intermittent modes.

Consoles



Redesigned consoles feature a simple, functional design. Both consoles have attached adjustable armrests.

Travel Control



A large rubbercovered footrest at the side of the travel pedals allows the foot to easily grip the pedal. Lever stroke and force have been adjusted to improve fine control and to prevent jolting during machine impact.

Hydraulic Activation Control Lever



For added safety, this lever must be in the locked position before the operator can leave the cab. This feature prevents the machine from operating without the operator in the cab. To improve operator comfort, this lever has been moved from the left console to the cab floor.

Seat



The new seat features two types of cushions, soft and firm, to reduce operator fatigue and support the operator in the proper position.

Automatic Climate Control



The 318C features a fully automatic climate control. The air conditioner adjusts temperature and flow and determines which air outlet would be best used in particular situations.

Positive Filtered Ventilation




Standard Cab Equipment



To enhance operator comfort and productivity, the cab includes a lighter, drink holder, coat hook, service meter, literature holder, magazine rack and storage compartment.

Serviceability



Simplified service and maintenance save you time and money.

Prestart Monitoring System



The prestart monitoring system allows the operator to check coolant, hydraulic oil and engine oil levels from the monitor inside the cab.

Diagnostics and Monitoring



The 318C is equipped with SOSSM sampling ports and hydraulic test ports for the hydraulic system, engine oil and coolant.

Engine Inspection



The engine can be accessed from the upper structure. The oil level gauge, oil filter, fuel filter and priming pump are all located in front of the engine for easy maintenance.

Engine Oil Check



The engine oil check gauge is separated from the turbocharger. An electric level sensor in the engine oil pan makes for quick oil level checks.

FuelWater Separator



The water separator has a primary fuel filter element and is located in the radiator compartment for easy access from the ground.

Fuel Tank




Air Filter Compartment



The air filter features a doubleelement construction for superior cleaning efficiency. When the air cleaner clogs, a warning is displayed on the monitor inside the cab.

Radiator Compartment



The left rear service door allows easy access to the engine radiator and oil cooler. A reserve tank simplifies maintenance.

SwingOut Oil Cooler



Oil cooler swings out horizontally for easy cleaning.

Fan Guard



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

Pump Compartment



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

Handrail and Steps



Large handrails and steps assist the operator in climbing on and off the machine.

PunchedStar Plate



Antiskid punchedstar plate covers the top of the storage box and upper structure to help prevent slipping during maintenance.

Capsule Filter



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

Extended Service Intervals



Extended service and maintenance intervals reduce service time and increase machine availability.

Ground Level Service



Many service locations are easily accessible at ground level allowing critical maintenance to get done quickly and efficiently.

Service Access



Service doors are situated at both sides of the upper structure. The doors make it easy to reach maintenance items such as the engine radiator or any hydraulic components from ground level. Openings are large and service doors latch in the full open position.

Greasing Points



A concentrated remote greasing block on the boom delivers grease to hardtoreach locations.

Storage Box



The storage box is located at the front of the upper structure. Tools, grease guns and other repair equipment can be stored in this space. The lockable storage box also accommodates a refueling pump, which is available as an attachment however, adding these attachments eliminates storage area.

Complete Customer Support



Cat dealer services help you operate longer with lower costs.

Selection



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

Purchase



Look past the initial price look at the value the 318C offers. Consider the resale value and compare productivity and daytoday operating costs. Consult your local Cat dealer for financing options.

Operation



For the best operating techniques to increase productivity and your profit, turn to your Cat dealer for the latest training literature and trained staff.

Maintenance



Repair option programs guarantee the cost of repairs up front. Diagnostic programs such as SOS 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 instock parts to minimize machine downtime. You can save money with Cat remanufactured components.

Warranty



Your local Cat dealer is there to support and protect you. Extended warranty options are also available.


Engine
Engine Model
Cat® 3066T
Flywheel Power
125 hp
Gross Power
130 hp
ISO 9249
125 hp
SAE J1349
125 hp
EEC 80/1269
125 hp
Bore
4 in
Stroke
5.1 in
Displacement
389 in3

Weights
Operating Weight
43320 lb
Operating Weight - Long Undercarriage
43320 lb
Operating Weight - Long Narrow Undercarriage
42660 lb

Drive
Maximum Drawbar Pull
45500 lb
Travel Speed
3.3 mph

Swing Mechanism
Swing Torque
36875 lb ft
Swing Speed
10.8 RPM

Hydraulic System
Main Implement System - Maximum Flow (2x)
50.2 gal/min
Maximum Pressure - Implements
4980 psi
Maximum Pressure - Travel
4980 psi
Maximum Pressure - Swing
2915 psi
Pilot System - Maximum Flow
8.6 gal/min
Pilot System - Maximum Pressure
570 psi
Boom Cylinder - Bore
5 in
Boom Cylinder - Stroke
47 in
Stick Cylinder - Bore
5.1 in
Stick Cylinder - Stroke
54 in
Bucket Cylinder - Bore
4.3 in
Bucket Cylinder - Stroke
41 in

Service Refill Capacities
Fuel Tank
85 gal
Cooling System
3.7 gal
Engine Oil
7.9 gal
Swing Drive (each)
2.1 gal
Final Drive (Each)
2.6 gal
Hydraulic System (Including Tank)
67.4 gal
Hydraulic Tank
33.6 gal

Dimensions
Transport width
118.11 in