The Caterpillar 336 excavator is a powerful and versatile piece of heavy machinery, designed to deliver exceptional performance and reliability in various construction and excavation tasks. In this article, we will explore the unique features of the Cat 336 excavator, focusing on its technology advancements, efficiency, productivity, and operator comfort and safety.
Unique features of the Cat 336 excavator
Technology advancements
Caterpillar has equipped the Cat 336 with state-of-the-art technology to maximize its performance and capabilities. Some key technology features include:
- Cat Grade with 2D: This advanced grading system assists operators in achieving precise excavation depths and slopes, reducing the need for manual grade checking, and increasing efficiency.
- Cat Payload: This onboard weighing system helps operators track load weights in real-time, ensuring accurate and consistent loading for improved productivity.
- Cat Link: This telematics solution allows fleet managers to monitor machine location, health, and utilization remotely, facilitating better decision-making and proactive maintenance.
Efficiency and productivity
The Cat 336 is designed to optimize efficiency and productivity in various applications. Its powerful engine, advanced hydraulic system, and innovative features work together to deliver:
- Faster cycle times: The combination of a powerful engine and responsive hydraulics allows the Cat 336 to complete tasks quickly.
- Improved fuel efficiency: The Cat 336 features an efficient engine and smart hydraulic system that work together to reduce fuel consumption.
- Versatility: With a wide range of available attachments and the ability to easily switch between them, the Cat 336 can tackle a variety of tasks, maximizing job site productivity.
Operator comfort and safety
Caterpillar understands the importance of operator comfort and safety, and the Cat 336 is designed with features to enhance both aspects:
- Spacious and ergonomic cab: The Cat 336’s cab offers ample space, adjustable seating, and user-friendly controls.
- Excellent visibility: The cab’s large windows and strategically placed mirrors provide operators with excellent visibility of their surroundings, reducing the risk of accidents and improving overall safety.
- Rollover Protective Structure (ROPS): The Cat 336’s cab is built with a certified ROPS, protecting operators in the event of a machine rollover.
Cat 336 weight and dimensions
Operating weight
The Caterpillar 336 excavator has an operating weight that ranges from approximately 79,500 lbs (36,050 kg) to 85,800 lbs (38,920 kg), depending on the configuration and attachments. This weight contributes to the machine’s stability and power during operation, allowing it to handle heavy loads and challenging excavation tasks with ease.
Transport dimensions
When it comes to transporting the Cat 336 excavator, the machine’s dimensions are important to consider. Some typical transport dimensions for the Cat 336 are:
- Length: 37.5 ft (11.43 m) with the boom and stick attached, and the bucket positioned on the ground
- Width: 11.3 ft (3.44 m) with 35.4-inch (900 mm) track shoes
- Height: 10.8 ft (3.29 m) from the ground to the top of the cab
- *Please note that these dimensions may vary depending on the specific configuration and attachments chosen. It’s essential to verify the actual dimensions of the machine you’re working with before transportation.
Cat 336 tech specs
Engine specifications
The Cat 336 excavator is powered by the Caterpillar C9.3B engine. This diesel engine is designed to meet Tier 4 Final and Stage V emission standards, reducing its environmental impact. The engine also features an advanced fuel system and cooling system, ensuring consistent power and optimal operating temperatures.
Horsepower rating
The Caterpillar C9.3B engine in the Cat 336 excavator provides a net power output of 311 horsepower (232 kW) at 1,800 rpm. This horsepower rating, combined with the machine’s responsive hydraulic system and advanced features, allows the Cat 336 to perform various applications, from heavy excavation to precise grading tasks.
How much is the Cat 336 excavator?
The Cat 336 excavator series boasts an array of models and sub-models, each offering distinct features and capabilities. These variations can significantly influence the pricing range of used Cat 336 excavators in the market. Here’s a list of price ranges for popular sub models of the 336 which is provided from Rouse Services, the gold standard for equipment valuation and pricing insights for the used equipment industry.
Cat 336 Pricing
| Machine Type | Year Range | Price Range |
| Cat 336 | 2019 | $176,800 – $212,400 |
| Cat 336 | 2020 | $232,800 – $261,000 |
| Cat 336 | 2021 | $264,500 – $287,300 |
| Cat 336 | 2022 | $279,300 – $320,400 |
Cat 336EL Pricing
| Machine Type | Year Range | Price Range |
| Cat 336EL | 2010-2012 | $63,800 – $93,900 |
| Cat 336EL | 2013-2015 | $76,600 – $121,800 |
| Cat 336EL | 2016-2018 | $107,700 – $204,400 |
Cat 336 FL Pricing
| Machine Type | Year Range | Price Range |
| Cat 336FL | 2014-2016 | $85,400 – $140,900 |
| Cat 336FL | 2017-2019 | $109,300 – $192,700 |
| Cat 336FL | 2020-2023 | $213,200 – $270,400 |
Cat 336 GC Pricing
| Machine Type | Year Range | Price Range |
| Cat 336 GC | 2019 | $202,200 – $225,300 |
| Cat 336 GC | 2020 | $224,800 – $232,900 |
| Cat 336 GC | 2021 | $257,000 – $260,000 |
| Cat 336 GC | 2022 | $263,500 – $289,800 |
Caterpillar has made improvements to the Cat 336 excavator since its initial release. These updates are typically introduced through new model years or sub-models, such as the Cat 336F, 336E, and 336 GC. These improvements may include advancements in technology, fuel efficiency, productivity, and operator comfort. Some notable improvements made to the Cat 336 over time include:
- Emissions Compliance: Caterpillar has updated the Cat 336’s engine over the years to meet changing emissions regulations, such as the Tier 4 Final and Stage V standards.
- Technology: Caterpillar has integrated advanced technology features, such as CAT Grade with 2D, CAT Payload, and CAT Link, to improve the machine’s performance, productivity, and efficiency.
- Hydraulic System: Improvements in the hydraulic system have been made to enhance efficiency, responsiveness, and controllability, providing smoother and faster operation.
- Operator Comfort and Safety: Caterpillar has updated the design of the cab, seating, and controls over time to provide a more comfortable and ergonomic working environment for operators.
- Fuel Efficiency: Caterpillar continuously works on optimizing the engine and hydraulic systems to improve fuel efficiency without compromising performance.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the differences between the Cat 336F, 336E, 336 GC, and the standard Cat 336 excavator:
Cat 336E:
- The Cat 336E is an earlier version of the Cat 336, released before the 336F.
- It is equipped with a Cat C9.3 ACERT engine, which meets the Tier 4 Interim/Stage IIIB emission standards.
- The 336E may have fewer technology features than the newer 336F and standard 336 models.
Cat 336F:
- The Cat 336F is an updated version of the 336E, with improvements in engine technology and emissions compliance.
- It is equipped with a Cat C9.3 ACERT engine, which meets the Tier 4 Final/Stage IV emission standards.
- The 336F may include more advanced technology features than the 336E, but fewer than the latest standard 336 model.
Cat 336 GC:
- The Cat 336 GC is a cost-effective alternative to the standard Cat 336.
- It is equipped with a Cat C7.1 engine, which produces 259 horsepower (193 kW), compared to the 311 horsepower (232 kW) of the standard Cat 336’s C9.3B engine.
- The 336 GC offers a more simplified technology package, focusing on cost savings for buyers who may not require advanced features.
Standard Cat 336:
- The standard Cat 336 is the latest version of the 336 series, offering the most advanced features and performance.
- It is equipped with a Cat C9.3B engine, which meets the Tier 4 Final/Stage V emission standards and produces 311 horsepower (232 kW).
- The standard Cat 336 includes state-of-the-art technology features, such as CAT Grade with 2D, CAT Payload, and CAT Link.