Cat 345B specifications

Early 345B identification before comparing an L or Series II

The Japanese 345B record concerns a digging excavator with a reach boom. A later 345B L Series II brochure describes a different equipment package, while the material handler has a raised cab and handling front. Compare the installed boom and undercarriage first; the shared B designation does not establish identical machines.

The handbook's Japanese column is separate from L-FIX and L-VG

Caterpillar's thirtieth Performance Handbook lists the Japanese 345B separately from fixed-gauge and variable-gauge L arrangements. Its power heading says flywheel power. The earlier record called that same rating gross power; the corrected label below follows the handbook.

The working-range section also separates reach from mass booms. A stick length alone cannot identify the whole front. In particular, the unusual loading-height entry in the Japanese reach table must not be replaced silently with a neighboring L-FIX figure.

The handbook itself prints that entry; verify the actual machine's drawing before using it for truck clearance.

Later Maestro controls describe the Series II package

The subsequent L Series II publication distinguishes boom-priority from swing-priority work modes. Its engine-underspeed control adjusts pump output to maintain engine speed. A response under hydraulic load therefore needs the selected work mode recorded as well as the throttle setting.

That later brochure supplies an auxiliary valve but lists attachment controls and lines separately. Do not price a bare valve as a complete hammer or shear installation. The tool needs the matching control and plumbing arrangement.

A 345C control description cannot diagnose a B-Series panel

Caterpillar's noncurrent 345C L page describes automatic boom and swing priority without work-mode buttons. That differs from the Series II selector. An absent selector on the C is not evidence that a B's selector was unnecessary.

The C page also describes enlarged bucket-linkage pins and an adapter kit for B II buckets. A seller's statement that a bucket came from a neighboring generation does not establish pin compatibility. Identify the adapter and linkage before treating the attachment as ready to mount.