324

Medium Excavators 324

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Key Specs

Net Power - ISO 9249
145 hp
108 kW
Operating Weight
50100 lb
22700 kg
Maximum Digging Depth
20.7 ft
6310 mm

Overview

Heavy-Duty Muscle Built to Outperform

The Cat® 324 excavator is built to handle high-production workloads with the perfect balance of brute strength and refined control. Its powerful Cat® C7.1 engine, high-flow hydraulics, and advanced electrohydraulic system give you the muscle to move heavy material fast, without burning through your budget. With reinforced structures, field-proven durability, and easy-to-maintain components, the 324 is your go-to solution for tackling tough jobs with less downtime.

Benefits

Strong and Responsive

The proven Cat C7.1 engine delivers consistent power and fast load response, even under pressure or at high altitudes. Advanced electrohydraulics ensure precise control for grading, trenching, and lifting in demanding applications.

Built to Last

Heavy-duty structures and components are designed to withstand challenging terrain and extend machine longevity. With matched bucket options for quarry or earthwork and proven system reliability, the 324 is designed for long, productive shifts in rugged conditions.

Less Downtime. More Done.

Shared Cat components and extended service intervals make maintenance easier, reducing downtime and costs. Backed by unmatched parts availability and dealer support, the machine helps keep your fleet productive and ready to work.

Features At A Glance

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High Performance, Fuel Efficient

High Performance, Fuel Efficient

        
  • The turbocharged Cat C7.1 engine with Cat filters offers high power density with a combination of proven fuel and air systems.
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  • Eco mode reduces fuel consumption with no loss in lifting or digging forces.
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  • Equipped with electrohydraulic control valve, pump and Engine Control Module (ECM) for better controllability and high fuel efficiency.
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  • The ECM ensures smooth, precise operation in every pass.
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  • Balance power and fuel efficiency using the Positive Flow Control (PVC) electro-hydraulic system.
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  • Use automatic engine speed control (AEC) during no-load or light-load conditions to automatically reduce engine speed to minimize fuel consumption.
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  • Electronic tandem hydraulic pumps deliver more efficiency with less internal friction losses and superior design.
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  • Boom and stick regeneration circuits reduce fuel consumption while improving cycle times.
Built For Long Term Production

Built For Long Term Production

        
  • Move more material with a large 1.4 m³ (1.83 yd³) General-Duty bucket for earthmoving.
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  • Be more productive with a size class exclusive 1.3 m³ (1.70 yd³) Severe-Duty bucket for quarry to handle rock, gravel and abrasive material.
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  • Engineered for consistent reliability across long shifts and rough terrain.
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  • Cooling system capability of up to 48º C (118º F) for good performance in harsh environments
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  •  Standard high-ambient temperature capability of up to 52º C (126º F) and cold start capability of down to –10° C (14° F).
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  • The single plane cooling package design reduces air resistance compared to the traditional two-plane design for better cooling performance and enhanced machine productivity.
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  • Traverse the job site on the Grease Lubricated Track (GLT) 4.45 m (14'7") Long undercarriage.
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  • Work up to 3000 m (9,840 ft) above sea level without engine de-rating.
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  • Reinforced front structures and heavy-duty components help extend machine life in demanding terrain including an optimized Heavy-Duty boom and stick for longer life in quarry application.
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  • The single plate X-shaped, box-section car body provides excellent resistance to torsional bending, dissipating stress throughout the base of the machine.
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  • The heavy-duty base frame with improved weld treatment, weld toe control, and additional welds provides superior strength and durability.
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  • Undercarriage rollers are sealed to prevent dirt and debris from causing internal wear.
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  • Three available operating modes: Power, Smart, and Eco.
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  • The boom and stick structures are designed using high-tensile steel fabricated into a large box section using internal baffles to absorb torsional stress.
Reliability You Can Count On

Reliability You Can Count On

        
  • Caterpillar design and manufacturing techniques assure outstanding service life.
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  • Reliable and durable and built on classic, proven components.
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  • Robotically welded booms and sticks ensure structural integrity.
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  • Dig and lift from a stable platform created by the 4550 kg (10,030 lb) heavy-duty counterweight and heavy-duty eight-roller undercarriage.
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  • Long 4.45 m (14'7") undercarriage delivers excellent stability and ground contact, supporting versatile, high-productivity performance across a range of demanding applications.
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  • Hydraulic lines protected inside the frame reduce risk of damage.
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  • Auto warm up speeds up hydraulic oil warming in cold temperatures and helps prolong the life of components.
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  • The latest single-plane cooling package has better air flow, helping to reduce fan speed and save fuel in cooler conditions and lighter applications.
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  • Sloped track frame helps prevent mud and debris from accumulating in the track area.
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  • Grease sealed between track pins and bushings reduces travel noise and prevents debris from entering to increase undercarriage life.
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  • Thick braiding protects the colored, numbered electrical wires. Non-abrasive connectors keep wiring harnesses in place to prevent failure.
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  • Reinforced structures and upgraded undercarriages improve stability and durability.
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  • The Cat® C7.1 engine provides cleaner, quieter operation while delivering superior performance and reliability through a high torque, low speed design.
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  • The advanced main control valve features an Electrical Proportional Reducing Valve (EPRV) manifold.
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  • Stackable auxiliary lines mounted at the side of the main valve for simplified hydraulic lines and valve configuration.
Reduce Your Maintenance Time And Costs

Reduce Your Maintenance Time And Costs

        
  • The 324 has a work platform for all routine service and maintenance needs. Anti-skid plating with countersunk bolts reduces the potential for slippage and trip hazards. Grips on the track frame, service platform, cab and battery compartment for an easy climb up and down from the service platform and operator station.
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  • Shared components simplify maintenance and improve parts availability.
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  • Scheduled Oil Sampling (S·O·SSM) ports are on ground level, simplifying maintenance and allowing for quick, easy extraction of samples for fluid analysis.
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  • Extended and synchronized service intervals save on maintenance costs.
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  • Extended first engine oil change interval (500 hours), and maintenance-free batteries.
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  • Filters, such as fuel, engine air, and oil filters, are grouped together for easy access and preventative maintenance.
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  • There is no need to manually prime the fuel system after fuel filter changes. The standard electric priming pump reduces the risk of contamination by preventing unfiltered fuel from entering the fuel system.
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  • Maximize uptime and extended service intervals, thanks to advanced hydraulic oil filter design and no pilot and case drain filters.
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  • A two-stage fuel filter and anti-rust fuel tank help protect the engine against low-quality fuel.
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  • The Cat filters with interval time of 500 hours ensures smooth and contamination free filtering. 
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  • Routine cleaning is made easier with the single plane cooling package design.
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  • Proven, high-efficiency radial seal engine air filter behind the cab. The machine constantly monitors the engine air filter and will notify you, via the monitor, when service is required.
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  • The latest air intake filter with pre-cleaner has double the dust holding capacity of the previous air intake filter. 
Safely Home Every Day

Safely Home Every Day

        
  • The latest cab provides excellent visibility from the operator’s seat. In addition, two standard mirrors help keep you aware of your surroundings.
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  • Optional front windshield guard helps protect the windshield from potential damage caused by rocks, flying debris, and other road materials.
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  • Optional rearview camera enhances visibility behind the machine.
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  • Heavy-duty base frame and reinforced “X” car body meets ISO 15818:2017 lifting and tie-down requirements.
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  • The optional Rollover Protective Structure (ROPS) cab meets ISO 12117-2:2008 requirements.
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  • Handrails and hand hold are provided for easy access. The handrails meet ISO 2867:2011.
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  • Ground-level access for daily checks promotes safe and efficient work.
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  • Anti-skid plating with countersunk bolts reduces the potential for slippage and trip hazards.
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  • Serrated steps, anti-skid plating provide stable access to the machine.
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  • A lockable disconnect switch isolates the battery by disconnecting the electrical energy when servicing the machine.
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  • The optional travel alarm provides a clear warning signal, alertingnearby individuals to the machine's movement and promoting a safe working environment.
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  • Bright seatbelts and a wide cab entry improve safety and usability.
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  • LED 1,200 lumen lights, a quiet muffler, and emergency cab exits support 24/7 operation.
Simple To Operate

Simple To Operate

        
  • Start the engine with a push button. 
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  • The in-cab high-resolution 203 mm (8 in) touchscreen monitor is easy to use, intuitive, and user-friendly. 
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  • Continuously improved user interface allows for intuitive navigation, minimizing performance interruption with the easy-to-use touchscreen menu.
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  • The machine’s electrohydraulic system allows accurate bucket control for maximum precision.
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  • Optimized low-effort joystick controls reduce operator fatigue. 
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  • Customize joystick patterns and preferences; the machine remembers them.
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  • Auto hammer stop protects tools from overheating and wear. 
Specifications Standard Equipment Optional Equipment

Product Specifications for 324

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Net Power - ISO 9249 145 hp 108 kW
Net Power - ISO 9249 (DIN) 147 hp (metric) 147 hp (metric)
Engine Model Cat® C7.1 Cat® C7.1
Engine Power - ISO 14396 150 hp 112 kW
Engine Power - ISO 14396 (DIN) 152 hp (metric) 152 hp (metric)
Bore 4 in 105 mm
Stroke 5 in 135 mm
Displacement 433 in³ 7.1 l
Biodiesel Capability Up to B20¹ Up to B20¹
Emissions Meets UN ECE R96 Stage II emission standards, equivalent to U.S. EPA Tier 2 and EU Stage II. Meets UN ECE R96 Stage II emission standards, equivalent to U.S. EPA Tier 2 and EU Stage II.
Note (1) Net power advertised is the power available at the flywheel when the engine is equipped with fan, air intake system, exhaust system and alternator with engine speed at 1,700 rpm. Advertised power is tested per the specified standard in effect at the time of manufacture. Net power advertised is the power available at the flywheel when the engine is equipped with fan, air intake system, exhaust system and alternator with engine speed at 1,700 rpm. Advertised power is tested per the specified standard in effect at the time of manufacture.
Note (2) ¹Cat® engines are compatible with diesel fuel blended with the following lower-carbon intensity fuels** up to: 100% biodiesel FAME (fatty acid methyl ester)* or 100% renewable diesel, HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil) and GTL (gas-to-liquid) fuels. Refer to guidelines for successful application. Please consult your Cat dealer or “Caterpillar Machine Fluids Recommendations” (SEBU6250) for details. *For use of blends higher than 20% biodiesel, consult your Cat dealer. **Tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions from lower-carbon intensity fuels are essentially the same as traditional fuels. ¹Cat® engines are compatible with diesel fuel blended with the following lower-carbon intensity fuels** up to: 100% biodiesel FAME (fatty acid methyl ester)* or 100% renewable diesel, HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil) and GTL (gas-to-liquid) fuels. Refer to guidelines for successful application. Please consult your Cat dealer or “Caterpillar Machine Fluids Recommendations” (SEBU6250) for details. *For use of blends higher than 20% biodiesel, consult your Cat dealer. **Tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions from lower-carbon intensity fuels are essentially the same as traditional fuels.
Operating Weight 50100 lb 22700 kg
Note 4.45 m (14'7") Long undercarriage, 5.7 m (18'8") Heavy Duty (HD) Reach boom, 2.5 m (8'2") HD Reach stick, 1.3 m³ (1.7 yd³) Severe Duty (SD) bucket, 600 mm (24") triple grouser track shoes and 4550 kg (10,030 lb) counterweight. 4.45 m (14'7") Long undercarriage, 5.7 m (18'8") Heavy Duty (HD) Reach boom, 2.5 m (8'2") HD Reach stick, 1.3 m³ (1.7 yd³) Severe Duty (SD) bucket, 600 mm (24") triple grouser track shoes and 4550 kg (10,030 lb) counterweight.
Maximum Digging Depth 20.7 ft 6310 mm
Boom HD Reach 5.7 m (18'8") HD Reach 5.7 m (18'8")
Stick HD Reach 2.5 m (8'2") HD Reach 2.5 m (8'2")
Bucket SD 1.3 m³ (1.7 yd³) SD 1.3 m³ (1.7 yd³)
Maximum Reach at Ground Level 31.1 ft 9470 mm
Maximum Cutting Height 30.6 ft 9330 mm
Maximum Loading Height 20.6 ft 6280 mm
Minimum Loading Height 8.5 ft 2590 mm
Maximum Depth Cut for 2440 mm (8 ft) Level Bottom 20.1 ft 6120 mm
Maximum Vertical Wall Digging Depth 18.4 ft 5620 mm
Bucket Digging Force - ISO 31250 lbf 139 kN
Stick Digging Force - ISO 24500 lbf 109 kN
Main System - Maximum Flow 416 l/min (106 gal/min) 416 l/min (106 gal/min)
Maximum Pressure - Equipment 5075 psi 35000 kPa
Maximum Pressure - Travel 5075 psi 35000 kPa
Maximum Pressure - Swing 3625 psi 25000 kPa
Swing Speed 11.5 r/min 11.5 r/min
Maximum Swing Torque 45260 ft·lbf 61 kN·m
Fuel Tank Capacity 97.7 gal (US) 370 l
Cooling System 7.4 gal (US) 28 l
Engine Oil 4.8 gal (US) 18 l
Swing Drive - Each 1.6 gal (US) 6 l
Final Drive - Each 1.3 gal (US) 5 l
Hydraulic System - Including Tank 57.6 gal (US) 218 l
Hydraulic Tank 30.4 gal (US) 115 l
Boom HD Reach 5.7 m (18'8") HD Reach 5.7 m (18'8")
Stick HD Reach 2.5 m (8'2") HD Reach 2.5 m (8'2")
Bucket SD 1.3 m³ (1.7 yd³) SD 1.3 m³ (1.7 yd³)
Shipping Height - Top of Cab 11 ft 3360 mm
Handrail Height 9.9 ft 3020 mm
Shipping Length 31.2 ft 9520 mm
Tail Swing Radius 9.3 ft 2830 mm
Counterweight Clearance 3.3 ft 1020 mm
Ground Clearance 1.4 ft 440 mm
Track Length 14.6 ft 4450 mm
Length to Center of Rollers 12 ft 3650 mm
Track Gauge 7.8 ft 2380 mm
Transport Width 9.8 ft 2980 mm

324 Standard Equipment

Print

NOTE

  • Standard and optional equipment may vary. Consult your Cat dealer for details.

BOOM, STICK AND LINKAGE

  • 5.7 m (18'8") HD Reach boom
  • 2.5 m (8'2") HD Reach stick
  • Bucket linkage, B1 family with lifting eye

CAB

  • Sound suppressed cab with viscous mounts
  • Mechanical-suspension seat with headrest and armrest angle adjustment
  • High-resolution 203 mm (8") LCD touchscreen monitor
  • Keyless push to start engine control
  • AM/FM Bluetooth® radio with USB/Auxiliary ports
  • Cup holder and storage compartments
  • Upper radial wiper with washer
  • Openable steel hatch
  • Washable floor mat
  • 51 mm (2") orange seat belt

CAT TECHNOLOGY

  • VisionLink™

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

  • Two 750 CCA maintenance free batteries
  • Centralized electrical disconnect switch
  • LED chassis and cab lights
  • LED left-side boom light

ENGINE

  • Cat C7.1 single turbo diesel engine
  • Three selectable modes: Power, Smart, Eco
  • One touch low idle with auto engine speed control (AEC)
  • Two stage fuel filtration system with water separator and indicator
  • 4000 m (13,120 ft) altitude capability with derate from 3000 m (9,840 ft)
  • Up to 52° C (126° F) high-ambient cooling capacity with derate above 48° C (118° F)
  • Down to -10° C (14° F) cold start capability
  • 75 Amp alternator
  • Radial sealed double element air filter
  • Electric fuel priming pump

HYDRAULIC SYSTEM

  • Electronic main control valve, hammer ready
  • Boom and stick regeneration circuits
  • Automatic hydraulic warm-up
  • Automatic two speed travel
  • High performance hydraulic return filter

SAFETY AND SECURITY

  • Rearview mirrors; handrail mounted (one), cab handhold mounted (one)
  • Bolt free service platform with anti-skid plate
  • Neutral lever (lock out) for all controls
  • Ground level accessible secondary engine shutoff switch in cab
  • Handrail and handhold
  • Signaling/warning horn

SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

  • Grouped engine oil, fuel, and hydraulic oil filters
  • Sampling ports for Scheduled Oil Sampling (S.O.S)
  • Radiator screen for radiator/oil cooler to prevent plugging by debris

UNDERCARRIAGE AND STRUCTURES

  • 4.45 m (14'7") Long undercarriage
  • Grease lubricated track links
  • Segmented track guiding guard
  • Full length track guiding guard
  • Bottom guard
  • 4550 kg (10,030 lb) counterweight

324 Optional Equipment

Print

NOTE

  • Standard and optional equipment may vary. Consult your Cat dealer for details.

CAB

  • Rollover Protective Structure (ROPS)
  • Operator Protective Guards (OPG) with matching lights
  • Front windshield guard (wire mesh)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

  • LED right-side boom light

HYDRAULIC SYSTEM

  • Hydraulic auxiliary lines (hammer)

SAFETY AND SECURITY

  • Rearview camera
  • Travel alarm

UNDERCARRIAGE AND STRUCTURES

  • 600 mm (24") triple grouser shoes (12 mm/0.5" thick)
  • 790 mm (31") triple grouser shoes (10 mm/0.4" thick)

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Net Power - ISO 9249
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Operating Weight
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22700 kg
Maximum Digging Depth
20.7 ft
6310 mm
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324 Hydraulic Excavator

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324 Hydraulic Excavator

324 Hydraulic Excavator

324 Hydraulic Excavator

324 Hydraulic Excavator

324 Hydraulic Excavator

324 Hydraulic Excavator

324 Hydraulic Excavator

324 Hydraulic Excavator

324 Hydraulic Excavator

324 Hydraulic Excavator

324 Hydraulic Excavator

324 Hydraulic Excavator

324 Hydraulic Excavator
324 Hydraulic Excavator
324 Hydraulic Excavator
324 Hydraulic Excavator
324 Hydraulic Excavator
324 Hydraulic Excavator
324 Hydraulic Excavator
324 Hydraulic Excavator

Introducing Next Generation Cat® Excavator 324

Introducing Next Generation Cat® Excavator 324

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