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Reviews Excavators Caterpillar - 305

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4.3
Average score of Caterpillar
21 reviews
3.7
3.7 Price
4.6
4.6 Reliability
4.0
4.0 Maintenance
4.8
4.8 Operation
4.3
4.3 Convenience
Search results: 21 reviews
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4.6
Excavator Caterpillar 305
2019 Year
3.0 Price
5.0 Reliability
5.0 Maintenance
5.0 Operation
5.0 Convenience
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I've run Cats for years and got time on the 305CR recently. Cab is quiet and comfortable - aircon, good seat and space for tools. Keyless start with code is ok but slows you down at first if you're used to keys. Controls are the standout; Cat Stick Steer and the left joystick make steering low-effort and precise. Hydraulics feel strong, good breakout force on the bucket and the aux lines/quick-disconnects make swapping attachments easy. Fuel use seems improved vs older models thanks to auto idle and shutdown. Price is the only sore point - it's a premium machine, you pay more up front. Still, panels look tough and the build suggests lower repair bills down the line.
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4.0
Excavator Caterpillar 305
2022 Year
4.0 Price
4.0 Reliability
3.0 Maintenance
5.0 Operation
4.0 Convenience
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Operating the Caterpillar 305 for daily tasks has given me a mixed impression. The storage space within the cabin is practically nonexistent, forcing creative solutions for personal items. On the positive side, visibility is top-notch, facilitating safe navigation and operation. The hydraulic's performance is consistently reliable, and the compact radius design frequently comes in handy. Engine maintenance feels a bit constrained, owing to limited access, but the overall reliability mitigates this inconvenience.
4.4
Excavator Caterpillar 305
2018 Year
4.0 Price
4.0 Reliability
4.0 Maintenance
5.0 Operation
5.0 Convenience
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I've had the opportunity to operate the Cat 305 E2, particularly impressed by its compact radius and stability. The new hydraulic quick attach system is a time-saver as it's fully automatic from the comfort of the cab-no need to pull safety pins. However, I wish they had included foot pedals for auxiliary controls in addition to joystick integration-it might suit diverse preferences better.
4.2
Excavator Caterpillar 305
2018 Year
4.0 Price
4.0 Reliability
4.0 Maintenance
5.0 Operation
4.0 Convenience
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I recently had the opportunity to operate the Cat 305CR, and it proved to be quite effective for my project needs. The controls were straightforward, aiding in a smooth transition for someone like me. The cab was relatively comfortable with features like air conditioning-though the user interface on the screen could be more intuitive. During use, the machine's hydraulic system supported efficient operation, although I noticed occasional vibrations when using heavier attachments.
4.2
Excavator Caterpillar 305
2019 Year
4.0 Price
5.0 Reliability
4.0 Maintenance
4.0 Operation
4.0 Convenience
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Just finished a week's project using the Cat 305CR. I appreciate the compact design-it fit well in tight spaces on site. Performance-wise, the engine provided reliable power, which was noticeable during intensive tasks. However, I found the left joystick controls slightly less responsive compared to others I've used. Nonetheless, the cab's soundproofing was excellent, making long hours manageable.
4.2
Excavator Caterpillar 305
2022 Year
4.0 Price
4.0 Reliability
5.0 Maintenance
4.0 Operation
4.0 Convenience
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Short take from a bloke who works house sites. The 305's compact width is useful in tight yards. Dozer blade and good lift points make moving and towing easier - tie down eyes on the track frame save time when you float it. I don't love the move of auxiliary from foot pedals to the joystick; some old habits die hard and for certain attachments I missed the pedals. Fuel save stuff (auto idle, cooler oil) looked legit and the machine felt stable and smooth while digging. Extras like full‑opening doors and easy access to filters are handy. Dealer support seems solid too. Mixed feelings on the control change, otherwise a sensible little machine.
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4.2
Excavator Caterpillar 305
2018 Year
4.0 Price
5.0 Reliability
4.0 Maintenance
4.0 Operation
4.0 Convenience
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Recently tested a CAT 305E2 CR at a friend’s site, and the digging capability is impressive. The compact size makes it a breeze in confined spaces, but I feel the fuel efficiency could be marginally better. Nonetheless, it’s reliable.
4.2
Excavator Caterpillar 305
2019 Year
3.0 Price
5.0 Reliability
4.0 Maintenance
5.0 Operation
4.0 Convenience
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I've been hopping in and out of various mini excavators over the years and the CAT 305 always sticks with me, mainly because of how easy it moves around on tight sites. That compact design actually makes a difference - you can wiggle into spots some other machines just can’t manage. The hydraulic system is smoother than average and I’ve done some tricky trenching without fighting the controls. GPS and diagnostics are handy, though to be real, I barely touch those unless there’s an issue. Reliability’s been solid for me, less downtime compared to some cheaper imports I used before. Pricing's a bit up there (especially for a new one), so don't expect any bargains. Comfort-wise it's pretty standard mini, but I don’t get out with a broken back after long shifts, so I’m mostly satisfied there. Not perfect for every job, but it’s consistent, and that’s worth something.
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4.2
Excavator Caterpillar 305
2019 Year
4.0 Price
5.0 Reliability
4.0 Maintenance
5.0 Operation
3.0 Convenience
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I've used the Caterpillar 305 and must admit, it's a sound machine with its share of drawbacks. The cab's interior often feels a bit cramped, and there's limited storage to hold essentials like a lunch box or documents. However, the footprint allows for impressive maneuverability, especially in tight project spaces, which is a substantial benefit. Maintenance can sometimes be challenging due to the cramped engine compartment. Despite this, it performs job tasks effectively and gets the work done.
4.2
Excavator Caterpillar 305
2019 Year
3.0 Price
4.0 Reliability
4.0 Maintenance
5.0 Operation
5.0 Convenience
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Had the new 305 out for some driveway work. Gotta say, for the size it surprised me with room inside, didn’t expect much but you actually get a fair bit. The controls feel direct, less lag than what I had before. Cameras are sharp, makes backing up less of a guessing game. Still, some of the touch stuff on the monitor takes a little getting used to if you’re used to old buttons. I do like that I can answer my phone in the cab now though. Operation is less stressful than previous machines I used but the price still feels a bit high for a 5-tonner. Not perfect for everyone but it’s solid.
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