The Caterpillar 312B hydraulic excavator was introduced in 1996 in Japan. Production began in Belgium in 1997, and France in 1998.

[edit] Features

The 312B has a 3064 turbocharged, diesel engine producing 84 flywheel horsepower (FWHP). It comes standard with a power and work mode selector including a new user mode, high level of operator comfort, integrated seat and console, increased stick and bucket force, modified controllability, and modified serviceability from the ground.

The 312B was manufactured in Japan, with a 2NS, 3ES, 3FS, 8JR, 9GR, or 9HR serial number prefix; in Belgium, with a 2KW or 9FS prefix; and in France, with a 6SW prefix.

The 3FS, 8JR, 9HR, 2KW, and 9FS are all long undercarriage units.

The 2NS, 3ES, 3FS, and 2KW are all equipped with dozer blades.

The French unit has a Cat 3054 engine, wide cab, and an operating weight of 27,500 pounds (12,500 kg).

Production of 2NS, 8JR, 9GR, and 9HR ended in 2000; 3FS ended in 2001; and 6SW ended in 2002.

The 312B was replaced by the Caterpillar 312C.

Based on data from the sales database of Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers, it is estimated that more than 10,900 Caterpillar 312B hydraulic excavators have been produced.

Highest Serial #

Belgium
2KW	00281
9FS	01360
France
6SW	00851
Japan
2NS	00174
3ES	00186
3FS	00395
8JR	01837
9GR	00540
9HR	05350
Total = 10,974