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Caterpillar 307D Excavator: A Case Study
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This time, we interviewed a user from Hubei, known as "Hubei Xiao Hu," who owns the first Caterpillar 307D excavator in the province. This 7-ton full-imported machine has been highly regarded by many members in the community, and Xiao Hu’s experience with it serves as a representative case for similar users.
User Background
Xiao Hu, born in 1986, is a typical example of someone who transitioned from an excavator operator to an owner. Before purchasing the 307D, he had nearly 5 years of experience driving excavators, primarily for his brother-in-law. As infrastructure development in his local area took off, Xiao Hu accumulated some savings and decided to start his own business by purchasing an excavator.
Purchase Information
  • Purchase Date: January 15, 2010
  • Dealer: Li Xing Hang, Hubei Branch
  • Total Price: 510,000 RMB (with insurance 19,700 RMB)
  • Down Payment: 120,000 RMB
  • Financing Term: 3 years
At the time of purchase, Xiao Hu considered three models: the Caterpillar 307D, Hitachi ZX70 (full import), and Komatsu PC60-7. After evaluating factors such as price, payment options, quality, and brand reputation, Xiao Hu chose the Caterpillar 307D for its superior performance and reputation.
Operator Situation
With many years of operating experience, Xiao Hu drives the excavator himself during the initial stages to reduce labor costs while ensuring proper maintenance and care for the machine.
Worksite Conditions
Xiao Hu primarily works on construction sites and agricultural land reclamation projects in Qianjiang, Hubei. The area is part of the Jianghan Plain, and the work mainly involves earthworks for construction foundations and irrigation infrastructure.
Work Efficiency
The Caterpillar 307D is noted for its fast rotation and boom lift speeds. Compared to other machines on the same site, its performance is noticeably faster and more powerful. Xiao Hu’s friend, who uses a Caterpillar 307C, confirmed that the 307D is much quicker than its predecessor, the 307C, improving overall work efficiency.
Fuel Consumption
During summer, when the air conditioning is used, the excavator consumes about 5.9 liters per hour with a 5-throttle setting. Considering local diesel prices of 6.25 RMB per liter, the hourly fuel cost is approximately 37 RMB. Xiao Hu believes this fuel consumption is moderate for a 7-ton excavator. In comparison, the Hitachi ZX70, in economic mode, consumes about 4 RMB less per hour than the 307D. However, if the ZX70 operates in power mode, its fuel consumption is significantly higher than the 307D.
Product Performance and Issues
  • Engine: No issues reported; it runs smoothly.
  • Hydraulic System: No problems encountered; performs reliably.
  • Other Issues: After 1,000 hours of use, no faults or issues have arisen.
Dealer and After-Sales Service
Since purchasing the 307D, Xiao Hu has been very pleased with the customer service provided by Li Xing Hang, the dealer. Whenever there is an issue, a quick call ensures that the service team arrives the same day to address the problem. Xiao Hu mentioned in his post, "Caterpillar’s service team is very fast; they arrive the same day as the call."
Parts and Maintenance
As the first 307D in Hubei, Xiao Hu received a special offer for free 1,500-hour maintenance. So far, he has only purchased an air filter, which cost 218 RMB. Xiao Hu is satisfied with the pricing of Caterpillar parts, noting that they are reasonable and cheaper than parts from many domestic brands.
Summary
The Caterpillar 307D excavator is Xiao Hu’s most valuable asset, and after nearly 1,000 hours of operation, the machine is performing exceptionally well. The dealer’s service has been attentive, and parts costs are acceptable. As a full-import 7-ton machine, the Caterpillar 307D has proven to be a highly reliable and efficient piece of equipment. Xiao Hu looks forward to the next 1,000 hours of operation and hopes the machine will continue to bring in profits, helping to expand his "excavator business" further.
We too, like Xiao Hu, are excited for the future and wish him even greater success in his excavator journey.
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