326

Medium Excavators 326 Tier 3

Request A Price Find Dealer

Key Specs

Net Power - ISO 9249
212 hp
157.8 kW
Operating Weight
56600 lb
25700 kg
Maximum Digging Depth
22.4 ft
6820 mm

Overview

Premium Performance with Simple-to-Use Technologies

The Cat® 326 Excavator brings premium performance with simple-to-use technologies to boost your operator efficiencies. Combine these features with an ergonomic cab, longer maintenance intervals, and a power system that reduces fuel and you have a low-cost-per-unit-of-production excavator that’s perfect for medium to heavy-duty applications.

Benefits

Lower Maintenance Costs

Extended and more synchronized maintenance intervals help you get more done at a lower cost compared to the previous model.

Low Fuel Consumption

Three power modes and automatic engine speed control help minimize fuel consumption.

High Operating Efficiency

Cat Grade with 2D, Cat Payload, Auto Dig Boost*, and Auto Heavy Lift* come standard, helping operators dig with precision, load faster, and move more material every hour.

*Not available on Super Long Reach configurations.

Features At A Glance

Displaying 1-6 of 9

Latest Features

Latest Features

Machine Setup Simplification
        
  • At the touch of fingertips and navigating user-friendly icons, the latest operator oriented User Interface (UI) maximizes uptime and gets crews to work without delay. From re-ordering work tool lists to creating new work tool combinations as needed, operators can quickly set up machines and easily access information.
  •     
  • The interface allows operators to maintain accuracy and makes the most of every second of their shift. Adding the ability to input couplers and attachments into the system makes setting up work tool combinations highly efficient by significantly reducing calibration time. It also eliminates the need to measure up again when changing Cat® work tool attachments and makes it manageable for a single person to check and adjust for bucket wear.

Cat® Grade 3D Ready
        
  • The Cat Grade 3D Ready option includes all the hardware required for the Grade with 3D system, installed and tested from the factory. This option provides an easier upgrade path for customers who want to add Grade with 3D after their initial purchase. To activate, contact your Cat Dealer to purchase the required 3D software licenses. Licenses can be installed remotely or manually loaded onto the machine.

Cat Payload and Advanced Payload*
        
  • Cat Payload provides operators with on-the-go weighing to help them hit load targets and avoid overloading, underloading, or misloading materials. Advanced Payload is a system upgrade that offers expanded features and capabilities, including custom tags, daily totals, and electronic ticketing. Combine Payload with VisionLink™** to analyze jobsites and individual assets for remote management of production targets and key metrics.

*Payload technologies are not legal for trade.
**VisionLink subscription required. 


Not all features are available in all regions. Please check with your local Cat dealer for specific offering availability in your area. Build Number: 07H
Performance and Productivity

Performance and Productivity

        
  • Improved controllability over the 326D2.
  •     
  • Help reduce fuel consumption with no productivity loss while using Smart mode.
  •     
  • Make working on slopes easier with improved swing torque over the 326D2 excavator.
  •     
  • Increase operating efficiency with standard technologies that help lower operator fatigue and your operating costs, including fuel consumption and daily maintenance.
  •     
  • The advanced hydraulic system provides the optimum balance of power and efficiency while giving you the control you need for precise digging requirements.
  •     
  • Match the excavator to the job with power modes; let Smart mode automatically match engine and hydraulic power to digging conditions.
  •     
  • Optional Advansys™ bucket tips increase penetration and improve cycle times. Tip changes can be done quickly with a simple lug wrench instead of a hammer or special tool, improving safety and uptime.
  •     
  • Auxiliary hydraulic options give you the versatility to use a wide range of Cat® attachments.
  •     
  • Don’t let the temperature stop you from working. The excavator has a standard high-ambient temperature capability of 52° C (125° F) with de-rate and cold start capability of –18° C (0° F). An optional –32° C (–25° F) cold start package is available.
Technology That Gets Work Done

Technology That Gets Work Done

        
  • The latest operator oriented User Interface (UI) has been designed to maximize uptime by allowing operators to easily reorder work tool lists and quickly create new work tool combinations. It also eliminates the need to measure up again when changing Cat® work tool attachments and makes it manageable for a single person to check and adjust for bucket wear.
  •     
  • Leverage standard Cat Grade with 2D system with indicate-only and laser capability to help boost productivity.
  •     
  • Want a 3D system to improve your digging results? Caterpillar's single antenna global navigation satellite system (GNSS) makes it easy by giving you visual and auditory guidance to grade. Plus, you can create and edit designs on the touchscreen monitor while you’re on the job. If your application calls for a dual antenna system, it’s easy to upgrade.
  •     
  • Upgrade to our dual antenna GNSS for maximum grading efficiency. The system lets you create and edit designs on the touchscreen monitor while you’re on the job, or you can have the plan design sent to the excavator to make your work easier. Plus, you get added benefits of avoidance zones, cut and fill mapping, lane guidance, and augmented reality along with advanced positioning capability.
  •     
  • All Cat Grade systems are compatible with radios and base stations from Trimble, Topcon, and Leica. Already invested in a grade infrastructure? You can install grade systems from Trimble, Topcon, and Leica onto the machine.
  •     
  • The Cat Grade 3D Ready option includes all the hardware required for the Grade with 3D system, installed and tested from the factory. Activation requires the purchase of additional 3D software licenses.
  •     
  • Standard Grade Assist helps you stay on grade – simply and effortlessly – with single-lever digging.
  •     
  • Keep the tracks on ground in lifting and hard digging with Boom Assist.
  •     
  • Set your desired bucket angle and let Bucket Assist automatically maintain the angle in sloping, leveling, fine grading, and trenching applications.
  •     
  • Automatically stop excavator swing at operator-defined set points in truck loading and trenching applications with Swing Assist, which will help you use less effort and consume less fuel.
  •     
  • Cat Payload helps you achieve precise load targets to improve your operating efficiency. Pick up a load of material--with a bucket and thumb combination or grapple and clamshell attachments--and get a real-time weight estimate without swinging.
  •     
  • Advanced Payload is a system upgrade that offers expanded features and capabilities, including custom tags, daily totals, and electronic ticketing.
  •     
  • Combine Payload with VisionLink™ and remotely manage your production targets.
  •     
  • Optional Operator Coaching is an in-cab system that recognizes specific opportunities for operators to be more productive and prevent unnecessary machine wear and tear.
Take the Guesswork out of Managing Your Equipment

Take the Guesswork out of Managing Your Equipment

        
  • VisionLink™ provides actionable data insights for all assets – regardless of fleet size or equipment manufacturer.* Review equipment data from your desktop or mobile device to maximize uptime and optimize assets. Equipment management features provide up-to-date asset tracking of your entire fleet. You can track asset location, operating hours, fuel level, health issues, and overall utilization. Monitor equipment health with fault codes, fluid analysis, and inspection due dates. It's all about making informed, data-based decisions to help reduce operating costs. Productivity management features enable you to analyze overall job site performance. You'll be able to track tonnage moved, production targets, and payload, as well as Grade 3D and compaction data. These vital metrics help you to reduce costs and improve jobsite operational efficiency.
  •     
  • Cat® Inspect is a mobile application that allows you to easily perform digital preventative maintenance (PM) checks, inspections, and daily walkarounds. Inspections can easily be integrated with other Cat data systems like VisionLink so you can keep a close eye on your fleet.
  •     
  • Remote Troubleshoot is a mobile application that allows your Cat dealer to perform diagnostic testing on your connected machine remotely to help ensure that issues are resolved quickly and with less downtime.
  •     
  • Remote Flash is a mobile application that allows you to update onboard software without a technician being present, allowing you to initiate software updates when convenient, increasing your overall operating efficiency.
  •     
  • The Cat PL161 attachment locator allows you to track attachments across all worksites, reduce the number of lost attachments, and plan for attachment maintenance and replacement. The work tool recognition feature automatically adjusts machine settings based on the selected tool.

*Data field availability can vary by equipment manufacturer.
 
Work in Comfort

Work in Comfort

        
  • Choose between Comfort and Deluxe cabs – both with automatic climate control (consult your local dealer on availability in your region).
  •     
  • The Comfort cab is equipped with a mechanical suspension seat. The Deluxe seat is heated and air adjustable.
  •     
  • Control the excavator comfortably with easy-to-reach controls all located in front of you.
  •     
  • Stow your gear with plenty of in-cab storage beneath and behind the seat and in the consoles. A cup holder, bottle holder, and coat hook are also provided.
  •     
  • Use the standard radio’s USB ports and Bluetooth® technology to connect personal devices and make hands-free calls.
Simple to Operate

Simple to Operate

        
  • Start the engine with a push button or the unique Operator ID function.
  •     
  • Program your power mode and joystick preferences using Operator ID; the excavator will remember what you set each time you go to work.
  •     
  • Make operating easier with the touch of a joystick button. Additional auxiliary relays allow you to power on or turn off a CB radio, beacon light, and even a dust suppression watering system without taking your hands off the joysticks (available on the Deluxe cab only).
  •     
  • Navigate quickly on the standard high-resolution 203 mm (8 in) touchscreen monitor, or with the optional 254 mm (10 in) touchscreen monitor (Deluxe cab only), or with the aid of the jog dial control.
  •     
  • Not sure how a function works or how to maintain the excavator? Always have the operator’s manual at your fingertips in the touchscreen monitor.
  •     
  • Need more lift during your shift? Turn on Auto Heavy Lift and get 8% more power exactly when you need it for as long as you need it.*
  •     
  • Tiltrotator attachments--ours or other brands--work seamlessly with Cat® 2D Grade, Assist, Payload, and E-Fence . With no additional hardware required, all you have to do is simply select "Third Party Tiltrotator System Installation" in the monitor, do the calibration, and get to work.

*Auto Heavy Lift calculations are based on 380 bar (boost pressure) divided by 350 bar (standard pressure). Does not apply to long reach excavators.

Product Specifications for 326

Net Power - ISO 9249 212 hp 157.8 kW
Net Power - ISO 9249 (DIN) 215 hp (metric) 215 hp (metric)
Engine Model Cat® C7.1 Cat® C7.1
Engine Power - ISO 14396 213 hp 159 kW
Engine Power - ISO 14396 (DIN) 216 hp (metric) 216 hp (metric)
Bore 4 in 105 mm
Stroke 5 in 135 mm
Displacement 428 in³ 7.01 l
Biodiesel Capability Up to B20¹ Up to B20¹
Emissions Meets UN ECE R96 Stage IIIA emission standards, equivalent to U.S. EPA Tier 3 and EU Stage IIIA. Meets UN ECE R96 Stage IIIA emission standards, equivalent to U.S. EPA Tier 3 and EU Stage IIIA.
Note (1) Net power advertised is the power available at the flywheel when the engine is equipped with fan, air intake system, exhaust system and alternator with engine speed at 1,900 rpm. Advertised power is tested per the specified standard in effect at the time of manufacture. Net power advertised is the power available at the flywheel when the engine is equipped with fan, air intake system, exhaust system and alternator with engine speed at 1,900 rpm. Advertised power is tested per the specified standard in effect at the time of manufacture.
Note (2) ¹Cat engines are compatible with diesel fuel blended with the following lower-carbon intensity fuels** up to: 100% biodiesel FAME (fatty acid methyl ester)* or 100% renewable diesel, HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil) and GTL (gas-to-liquid) fuels. Refer to guidelines for successful application. Please consult your Cat dealer or “Caterpillar Machine Fluids Recommendations” (SEBU6250) for details. *For use of blends higher than 20% biodiesel, consult your Cat dealer. **Tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions from lower-carbon intensity fuels are essentially the same as traditional fuels. ¹Cat engines are compatible with diesel fuel blended with the following lower-carbon intensity fuels** up to: 100% biodiesel FAME (fatty acid methyl ester)* or 100% renewable diesel, HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil) and GTL (gas-to-liquid) fuels. Refer to guidelines for successful application. Please consult your Cat dealer or “Caterpillar Machine Fluids Recommendations” (SEBU6250) for details. *For use of blends higher than 20% biodiesel, consult your Cat dealer. **Tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions from lower-carbon intensity fuels are essentially the same as traditional fuels.
Operating Weight 56600 lb 25700 kg
Note Long undercarriage, Heavy Duty (HD) Reach boom, HD R2.95 m (9'8") stick, 1.54m³ (2.01 yd³) HD bucket, 600 mm (24") triple grouser shoes and 4600 kg (10,141 lb) counterweight. Long undercarriage, Heavy Duty (HD) Reach boom, HD R2.95 m (9'8") stick, 1.54m³ (2.01 yd³) HD bucket, 600 mm (24") triple grouser shoes and 4600 kg (10,141 lb) counterweight.
Maximum Digging Depth 22.4 ft 6820 mm
Boom HD Reach 5.9 m (19'4") HD Reach 5.9 m (19'4")
Stick HD Reach 2.95 m (9'8") HD Reach 2.95 m (9'8")
Bucket HD 1.54m³ (2.01 yd³) HD 1.54m³ (2.01 yd³)
Maximum Reach at Ground Level 33.2 ft 10120 mm
Maximum Cutting Height 31.6 ft 9640 mm
Maximum Loading Height 21.7 ft 6620 mm
Minimum Loading Height 7.8 ft 2390 mm
Maximum Depth Cut for 2440 mm (8 ft) Level Bottom 21.8 ft 6650 mm
Maximum Vertical Wall Digging Depth 16.8 ft 5110 mm
Bucket Digging Force - ISO 37320 lbf 166 kN
Stick Digging Force - ISO 27200 lbf 121 kN
Main System - Maximum Flow 481 L/min (127 gal/min) 481 L/min (127 gal/min)
Maximum Pressure - Equipment 5075 psi 35000 kPa
Maximum Pressure - Equipment - Lift Mode 5510 psi 38000 kPa
Maximum Pressure - Travel 5075 psi 35000 kPa
Maximum Pressure - Swing 4118 psi 28400 kPa
Swing Speed* 9.8 r/min 9.8 r/min
Maximum Swing Torque 78180 lbf·ft 106 kN·m
Note (1) *For CE-marked machine default value may be set lower. *For CE-marked machine default value may be set lower.
Fuel Tank Capacity 125.2 gal (US) 474 l
Cooling System 6.6 gal (US) 25 l
Engine Oil 6.6 gal (US) 25 l
Swing Drive 3 gal (US) 11.5 l
Final Drive - Each 1.2 gal (US) 4.5 l
Hydraulic System - Including Tank 81.9 gal (US) 310 l
Hydraulic Tank 38.8 gal (US) 147 l
Boom HD Reach 5.9 m (19'4") HD Reach 5.9 m (19'4")
Stick HD Reach 2.95 m (9'8") HD Reach 2.95 m (9'8")
Bucket HD 1.54m³ (2.01 yd³) HD 1.54m³ (2.01 yd³)
Shipping Height - Top of Cab 9.8 ft 3000 mm
Handrail Height 9.8 ft 3000 mm
Shipping Length 33 ft 10060 mm
Tail Swing Radius 9.8 ft 3000 mm
Counterweight Clearance 3.5 ft 1060 mm
Ground Clearance 1.4 ft 440 mm
Track Length 15.2 ft 4640 mm
Length to Center of Rollers 12.6 ft 3830 mm
Track Gauge 8.5 ft 2590 mm
Transport Width 10.5 ft 3190 mm
Air Conditioning The air conditioning system on this machine contains the fluorinated greenhouse gas refrigerant R134a (Global Warming Potential = 1430). The system contains 0.85 kg (1.9 lb) of refrigerant which has a CO2 equivalent of 1.216 metric tonnes (1.340 tons). The air conditioning system on this machine contains the fluorinated greenhouse gas refrigerant R134a (Global Warming Potential = 1430). The system contains 0.85 kg (1.9 lb) of refrigerant which has a CO2 equivalent of 1.216 metric tonnes (1.340 tons).

326 Standard Equipment

NOTE

  • Standard and optional equipment may vary. Consult your Cat® dealer for details.

CAB

  • Rollover Protective Structure (ROPS)
  • Mechanical-suspension seat (Comfort only)
  • Heated air-suspension seat (Deluxe only)
  • High-resolution 203 mm (8 in) LCD touchscreen monitor

CAT TECHNOLOGIES

  • VisionLink™
  • Remote Flash
  • Remote Troubleshoot
  • Work tool recognition and tracking (PL161)
  • Cat Grade with 2D
  • Cat Assist
  • Cat Payload

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

  • Maintenance-free 1,000 CCA batteries
  • Programmable time-delay LED working lights
  • LED chassis light, left-hand/right-hand boom lights, cab lights

ENGINE

  • Cat C7.1 single turbo diesel engine
  • Three selectable power modes: Power, Smart, Eco
  • Auto engine idle shutdown
  • 52° C (125° F) high-ambient cooling capacity with de-rate
  • –18° C (0° F) cold start capability
  • Double element air filter with integrated precleaner
  • Reversing electric cooling fans

HYDRAULIC SYSTEM

  • Boom and stick regeneration circuits
  • Auto hydraulic warm up
  • Auto two-speed travel
  • Boom and stick drift reduction valve
  • Auto Dig Boost
  • Auto heavy lift
  • Tandem-type electronic main pump
  • Element-type main hydraulic filter

SAFETY AND SECURITY

  • 2D E-Fence
  • Auto hammer stop
  • Rearview camera
  • Ground-level engine shutoff switch
  • Lockable disconnect switch
  • Right-hand handrail and hand hold
  • Signaling/warning horn

SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

  • Scheduled Oil Sampling (S·O·S℠) ports
  • Ground-level and platform-level engine oil dipsticks
  • Integrated vehicle health management system

UNDERCARRIAGE AND STRUCTURES

  • Tie-down points on base frame
  • 4600 kg (10,141 lb) counterweight

326 Optional Equipment

NOTE

  • Standard and optional equipment may vary. Consult your Cat® dealer for details.

BOOMS AND STICKS

  • 5.9 m (19'4") Reach boom
  • 5.9 m (19'4") HD Reach boom
  • 10.2 m (33'6") Super Long Reach boom
  • 2.5 m (8'2") Reach stick
  • 2.5 m (8'2") HD Reach stick
  • 7.85 m (25'9") Super Long Reach stick

CAB

  • Operator Protective Guards (OPG)
  • High-resolution 254 mm (10 in) LCD touchscreen monitor
  • Cat Stick Steer

CAT TECHNOLOGIES

  • Operator Coaching
  • Cat Grade with 2D with Attachment Ready Option (ARO)
  • Cat Grade with 3D (single or dual GNSS)
  • Cat Grade 3D Ready
  • Cat Advanced Payload
  • Cat Tiltrotator (TRS) integration

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

  • 360° lighting

ENGINE

  • –32° C (–25° F) cold start capability

HYDRAULIC SYSTEM

  • Hydraulic efficiency monitoring
  • Hammer return filter circuit

SAFETY AND SECURITY

  • Cat Command (remote control)
  • Right-side-view camera
  • 360° visibility (requires 254 mm [10 in] monitor)
  • Swing alarm
  • Inspection lighting

SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

  • Electric refueling pump with auto shut off

UNDERCARRIAGE AND STRUCTURES

  • 600 mm (24") triple grouser shoes
  • 600 mm (24") double grouser shoes
  • 700 mm (28") triple grouser shoes
  • 790 mm (31") triple grouser shoes
  • 6700 kg (14,771 lb) counterweight for Super Long Reach

Compatible Technology and Services

Leverage Caterpillar connected data and security principles to improve efficiencies, increase productivity and make your business more profitable.

1 - 8 of 9 Items items
Previous Next

Cat Lift Assist is an excavator safety feature that quickly calculates the actual load you are lifting and compares it to the rated load the excavator is capable of handling. Visual and auditory alerts tell you if you are within safe working range or need to take action to avoid tipping.

Explore Technology
1 - 8 of 9 Items items
Previous Next

Cat® 2D E-fence keeps the front linkage within a predefined work area to avoid hazards like traffic. 2D E-fence uses data from position sensors to automatically stop motion when the front linkage reaches the defined boundaries.

Explore Technology
1 - 8 of 9 Items items
Previous Next

Cat® Inspect allows you to access your equipment data on your mobile device. This easy-to-use app lets you capture inspection data and integrates with your other Cat data systems, so you can keep a close eye on your fleet. More than one million inspections are completed each year, providing convenience and accountability to equipment owners.

Explore Technology

Remote Flash sends an alert from your Cat dealer, prompting you to update the software on your machine. To minimize downtime, updates can be deployed while on the jobsite without having to wait for a dealer technician to arrive. Remote flash decreases maintenance time and keeps your asset running with maximum efficiency.

Explore Technology

Remote Troubleshoot allows your Cat dealer to run testing while the machine is operating. Once the problem is identified, a technician can fix it with the correct parts and tools the first time, saving time and money. Remote Troubleshoot decreases maintenance time and keeps your machine running with maximum efficiency.

Explore Technology

VisionLink™ is a cloud-based software application that takes the guesswork out of fleet management with key insights to maximize performance - regardless of fleet size or equipment manufacturer. Receive equipment data seamlessly to your desktop or mobile device, all from a convenient centralized solution to make informed decisions at every turn.

Explore Technology
1 - 8 of 9 Items items
Previous Next

Digging a foundation. Trenching for a water line. Working on a slope. These jobs demand the precision and speed you get from Cat® Grade technologies. Combining advanced guidance with optional automated machine control, Grade helps operators hit grading targets right on the money in fewer passes.

Explore Technology
1 - 8 of 9 Items items
Previous Next

Next generation excavators take on all kinds of tasks - loading, stockpiling, material handling, and more. Cat® Payload technology provides on-the-go weighing to help operators hit exact targets every time and avoid overloading, underloading, or misloading materials.

Explore Technology
1 - 8 of 9 Items items
Previous Next

Operator Coaching allows operators of all experience levels to take their efficiency and productivity to the next level. With tips and data at their fingertips, operators can track and improve their productivity through everyday work on the job site.

Explore Technology

See how 326 compares against frequently compared products.

Use the comparison tool to compare detailed specs of Cat and competitor models.

Compare All Models

Media Gallery

326 Hydraulic Excavator

326 Hydraulic Excavator

Cat® All About 2025 Excavator Annual Product Update (APU)

Cat® All About 2025 Excavator Annual Product Update (APU)

360 View
360 View