2021 Caterpillar 320 GC Excavator – 121 hp, 22‑ft Digging Capacity

 

Product Overview

The 2021 Caterpillar 320 GC is a rugged, medium-duty hydraulic excavator constructed for efficiency, reliability, and lower operating costs. Powered by a **Cat C4.4 ACERT 4.4 L turbo diesel engine**, it delivers around **121 hp net (146 hp gross)** while meeting Tier 4 Final / Stage V emissions requirements. Ideal for general earthmoving, site prep, and utility applications, its **1.0 m³ General Duty bucket**, **approx. 22 ft (6.7 m) digging depth**, and robust hydraulic system equip it to handle daily tasks with ease.

Key Features & Highlights 2021 Caterpillar 320 GC Excavator

• Engine Performance: Cat C4.4 ACERT engine rated ~121 hp net and ~122 hp gross, optimized for fuel savings with two power modes and Auto-idle shutdown. Bio‑diesel compatible up to B20.
• Operating Weight: Approximately 20,400–22,000 kg depending on undercarriage configuration (600 mm or 700 mm shoes).
• Dig Depth & Reach: Max digging depth up to ~6.63 m (21.8 ft), max reach at ground level ~9.85 m (32.3 ft), cutting height ~9.45 m (31 ft).
• Bucket & Breakout: Standard 1.0 m³ (1.31 yd³) bucket offers around 129 kN breakout force and ~99 kN stick force. Excellent for general-duty applications.
• Hydraulics: High-flow system delivering ~442 L/min at up to 350 bar for digging power, swing torque ~54,940 ft·lb. Smart regeneration circuits and drift reduction for smooth operation.
• Cab & Operator Controls: Spacious, low-noise cab with 8″ touchscreen display, Bluetooth radio, rear and side cameras, ergonomic joystick controls, and automatic two-speed travel.
• Maintenance: Centralized ground-level service ports, tilt-up hood, easy S·O·S sampling, and longer maintenance intervals—newline service cost up to 25% lower than standard Cat models.

Technical Specifications at a Glance 2021 Caterpillar 320 GC Excavator

• Net Power (ISO 9249): 121 hp (90 kW); Gross power ~146 hp per SAE J1995.
• Operating Weight: 20,400 kg (600 mm undercarriage) to 22,000 kg (700 mm shoes).
• Digging Depth: Up to ~6.72 m / 22 ft.
• Bucket Capacity: 1.0 m³ (1.31 yd³).
• Breakout Force (Bucket): ~129 kN (28,935 lbf); Stick force ~99 kN (22,281 lbf).
• Hydraulic Flow: Max ~442 L/min pump flow; standard full flow pressure ~5,075 psi.
• Travel Speed & Swing: Auto two-speed travel, swing speed ~11.6 rpm, swing torque ~54,900 ft.
• Service Capacities: Fuel: 345 L; Hydraulic: ~234 L; DEF: ~39 L; Engine oil: ~15 L.

Ideal Applications

• General construction and site preparation
• Utility trenching, landscaping and drainage work
• Medium-sized earthmoving and light quarry use
• Rental and municipal fleet operations where uptime and cost-per-hour matter

Operator Insight & Reliability Feedback

The Cat **GC** line is designed as a cost-efficient excavator without the premium feature set of full-feature models. As one Reddit user noted:
> “The GC line is gonna be alright for people that plan on keeping the machine forever. However, the GC resale values are not good.”
These models offer solid utility, but limited resale upside due to fewer included features.

Others mention that ergonomic and suspension settings may feel basic:
> “The GC sucks. It’s just a yard machine… your arms will hurt before you realize.” This reflects the simplicity of the wrist and joystick setup on GC models.

Maintenance & Operational Notes

With reduced electronic complexity, the 320 GC is easier to maintain but may require more manual adjustments over time. Routine filter, fluid, and hydraulic checks at ground-level ports ensure smooth uptime. The automatic counter-balancing and service scheduling reduce unexpected downtime. For optimal performance, monitor undercarriage wear, ensure proper bucket teeth condition for digging penetration, and maintain proper tire/shoe pressure.

Image ALT Tag Suggestions

• 2021 Cat 320 GC excavator digging with 1.0 m³ bucket
• Operator interior of Cat 320 GC showing touchscreen monitor
• 320 GC cleanup work in progress at construction site

📞 Call to Action

Looking for a reliable, economical mid-sized excavator for your fleet or project? Contact us today for pricing, financing plans, attachment support, or inspection scheduling for the **2021 Caterpillar 320 GC Excavator**.