The Caterpillar 312C hydraulic excavator was introduced in 2001 in Japan and France. It replaced the Caterpillar 312B.

[edit] Features

The 312C has a 3064 turbocharged, diesel engine producing 90 or 96 flywheel horsepower (FWHP). It comes standard with pilot operated hydraulic controls.

The 312C was manufactured in Japan, with a CAE, FDS, or CBA serial number prefix; and in France, with a BNN or CBT prefix.

All Japanese units have optional dozer blade and segmented rubber tracks, and modified cab design and electronics. The FDS and CBA units have grease-lubricated tracks, a swing out hydraulic oil cooler, and an optional straight travel pedal.

The French units a variable flow hydraulic system with a power and work mode selector, horsepower summation control, large lifting capacity, large cross-section for the boom and stick, high level of operator comfort, modified X-shaped carbody, increased stick and bucket force, and increased pressure in the travel circuit.

The CBT and CBA units have a long undercarriage.

[edit] Modifications

In 2003 ad 2004 Caterpillar introduced two new 312C units in France, with a DBN or BWH prefix. Both units have a Cat 3054C engine producing 92 FWHP and a new cooling system.

The DBN unit has an operating weight of 27,720 pounds (12,600 kg).

The BWH unit has an operating weight of 28,820 lbs (13,100 kg).

Based on data from the sales database of Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers, it is estimated that more than 3,100 Caterpillar 312C hydraulic excavators have been produced.

Highest Serial #

France
BNN	00387
DBN	N/A
BWH	00683
CBT	00571
Japan
CAE	00750
FDS	N/A
CBA	00768
Total = 3,159