Caterpillar 301.7 CR

Overview

The 1.5–2 tonne class is where many landscapers, plumbers, fencing contractors and homeowners first meet excavators: these machines fit through garden gates, work inside buildings and travel on light trailers. Caterpillar's 301.7 CR is its main machine in this class. The Next Generation version replaced the 301.7D CR from around 2019, with a new canopy and controls, a C1.1 engine meeting Tier 4 Final / Stage V and refinements to the hydraulics.

The retractable undercarriage is the key feature: the tracks pull in to 0.99 m (39 in) to pass through openings and extend to 1.30 m (51 in) for stability while digging. Combined with a 0.65 m tail swing, the machine can slew close to walls and fences.

The Cat CR mini excavator family

"CR" stands for compact radius: the rear of the machine stays close to the tracks when it swings, so it can work next to walls and in narrow spaces. All the models below meet US EPA Tier 4 Final / EU Stage V. Figures are Caterpillar's (via dealer data) for the heaviest standard configuration with cab.

Caterpillar also builds intermediate sizes (302 CR, 303 CR, 304 CR, 307.5, 309 CR, 310) that are not covered in our database yet.

Engine and hydraulics

The three-cylinder Cat C1.1 produces 15.7 kW (21 hp) net and meets US EPA Tier 4 Final and EU Stage V. At this power level the emissions system is simpler than on larger machines (no DEF). Hydraulics are load-sensing, with a dozer blade and auxiliary hydraulic lines for attachments such as breakers and augers.

Digging performance

With the standard stick the 301.7 CR digs to about 2.35 m; the long stick increases this to 2.54 m (8 ft 4 in) and reach at ground level to 4.06 m. Maximum dump clearance is 2.51 m, enough to load a small tipper or dumper, and the boom swings 65° left and 50° right for digging alongside walls — a feature large excavators lack.

These numbers make the 301.7 CR right for:

• footings and trenches for garden walls, fences and small extensions;
• drainage, water and cable trenches up to about 2 m deep;
• landscaping, ponds, tree planting and stump removal;
• interior demolition and basement work where access is limited.

For deeper foundations or faster production, look at the Cat 302.7 CR or 303.5 CR. Our guide what size excavator do I need explains how to choose.

Attachments

Popular tools include trenching and grading buckets, a hydraulic thumb, a small breaker, an auger drive, a ripper tooth and a compaction plate. A quick coupler speeds up changes. Keep attachment weight within the machine's limits — on a 1.8-tonne excavator a heavy tool noticeably reduces stability. See the excavator attachments guide.

Transport

At under 2 tonnes, the 301.7 CR can be towed on a suitable plant trailer by many pickups and large vans, which is a major reason this class is so popular with hire companies and small contractors. Always check your vehicle's towing limit, the trailer's gross weight rating and local licence rules for the combined weight — machine, trailer and attachments together. Secure the machine with four-point chains. See how to transport heavy equipment.

Operating tips

• Extend the tracks before digging or slewing with a load; retract them only to pass through openings.
• Use the blade as a stabiliser and lower it when digging over the front.
• Mini excavators are easier to tip than large machines — avoid slewing with the bucket high on slopes. See excavator operating tips for beginners.

Maintenance

Daily: engine oil and coolant level, hydraulic oil sight glass, greasing the boom, stick and bucket pins, rubber track tension and condition. Rubber tracks are the largest wear item on minis; avoid turning on sharp rubble and keep tension correct. See how to grease heavy equipment and heavy equipment maintenance schedule.

Cat 301.7 CR vs rivals

Buying a used 301.7 CR

1. Check hours and service history (Product Link data where fitted).
2. Inspect rubber tracks, sprockets and idlers — replacement tracks are a significant cost.
3. Check the retractable undercarriage cylinder and slides for leaks and play.
4. Look for play in the boom swing pivot and bucket pins.
5. Test all functions, including auxiliary hydraulics and blade.

See our used excavator checklist and the best mini excavators shortlist.

Verdict

The Cat 301.7 CR is a well-built, easy-to-transport mini excavator with a genuinely useful retractable undercarriage. It is ideal for landscapers, small builders and hire fleets working in tight access. If access is not a constraint, the extra power and depth of a 2.5–3.5 tonne machine will pay back quickly.