Caterpillar intros M315F, M317F wheeled excavators with tool carrier, compact radius design

Updated Oct 14, 2016
M317FM317F

Caterpillar is expanding its lineup of F Series wheeled excavators with the introduction of two new compact radius models designed to work as tool carriers.

While the new M315F and M317F are smaller than the rest of their F Series brethren, Cat says neither sacrifice power, performance or stability and instead boast larger working envelopes, high breakout forces and high lifting capacities.

Engine

M315FM315F

Both machines are powered by Cat C4.4 ACERT engines providing 150 horsepower and meeting Tier 4 Final emissions regulations through the use of a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system, diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and a high-pressure/common-rail fuel system.

Cat says this new engine provides quick response to changing loads, noting that operators can expect strong performance paired with wide steering angles and a generous turning radius no matter the jobsite, including utility repair, road construction and even large earthmoving projects with heavy duty lifting tasks.

And like most T4F engines, the Cat C4.4 also offers fuel efficiency features like engine idle shutdown; Eco Mode, which lowers engine speed but does not compromise power; and Automatic Engine Speed Control which lowers engine speed when maximum power isn’t needed. A shift-to-travel mode optimizes driveline performance while also conserving fuel, and the cooling system features a variable speed, on-demand fan for further fuel savings.

Implements

The hydraulic system on these new machines reduces the load on the engine by matching flow to load demand, providing even more fuel savings. The load-sensing hydraulics have dedicated pumps for the swing and implement functions for faster and smoother movement, Cat says.

Both the M315F and M317F are designed to be tool carriers, Cat says, and allow operators to quickly change attachments in seconds from the cab. Both models come equipped with medium and high pressure auxiliary hydraulic lines, an Auto-Connect quick coupler and a monitor-based tool control system. This monitor allows operators to set up to 10 different flow/pressure settings for various Cat work tools. The monitor also allows operators to assign specific auxiliary functions to buttons and sliders on the joystick and on the foot pedal.

M315FM315F

Cat says these new machines can be equipped from the factory to accept the company’s new tiltrotator which rotates 360 degrees and allows for direct mounting of work tools.

Partner Insights
Information to advance your business from industry suppliers
Selecting the Correct Construction Tire Solution
Presented by Michelin North America
How High Fuel Prices hurt Your Business
Presented by EquipmentWatch
8 Crucial Elements of a Tire Safety Program
Presented by Michelin North America

Cab

Despite their compact radius design, the M315F and M317F feature the same cab as their larger F Series brethren. Inside, operators will find plenty of head and foot room, automatic climate control and adjustable steering column, seats and joystick/controls.

The M315F and M317F also feature a new cruise control system. An automatic brake/axle lock system detects when the service brake and axle need to be locked or unlocked and handles that task for the operator. Automatic swing and travel lock functions eliminate the need to release the swing lock pin.

The machines feature a large skylight, an all glass door, wide angle mirrors and a PIN-code anti-theft system.

An LED lighting package is standard on these machines and includes a light for the standard right side camera, counterweight light for the rearview camera, three cabin-mounted working lights, and a light on the boom. The right side camera has a separate in-cab color monitor, which also can display rearview camera images simultaneously.