Cat 320C MH specifications

The scrap-handling front has its own hydraulic functions

Cat's original 320C MH brochure describes a material-handling front and attachment circuits, not just an excavator with a grapple replacing the bucket. Grapple opening and closing work with the implement circuits, while grapple rotation has a separate gear pump and adjustable valve. A further fixed-displacement pump supplies the hydraulic generator drive.

Identify those separate functions when checking a machine offered for scrap handling.

The magnet monitor distinguishes a voltage fault from a ground fault and generator overheating. Its duty-cycle indicator concerns how long the magnet remains energized. A seller reporting a magnet warning has not thereby established a main implement-pump failure.

Record the actual indicator and installed generator arrangement. Cat also describes a raised cab that tilts forward for shipping, so the working cab position cannot simply be used as the transport arrangement.

Source: Cat 320C MH AEHQ5384-01, August 2001.

Distinguish the waste-handler package from the two-piece scrap front

Cat's separate 320C MH Waste Handler reference concerns transfer-station work. Its equipment schedule describes a heavy-duty reach boom and stick, heavy upper frame, trash-resistant cooling and guarding. Those details do not identify the same front arrangement as the scrap-handler brochure.

Compare the actual linkage before using a reach or lifting chart from either publication.

The waste package includes a bolt-on swing-bearing guard intended to keep wrapping material and packed debris away from that area. Rubber bumpers protect the machine's sheet metal in confined maneuvering. A raised cab and falling-object guard are described as options in the feature discussion; inspect the fitted cab equipment instead of assuming those items from the MH label.

The waste-handler description also identifies automatic boom and swing priority based on joystick movement. Its operator does not choose those priorities through the older work- and power-mode switches. That control behavior helps distinguish this arrangement from a general description of the 320 excavator family.

A fault account about an older 320B does not establish the same equipment or failure on this material handler.

Source: Cat 320C MH Waste Handler equipment and control description.