2001 Caterpillar 312CL Diesel

2001 Caterpillar 312CL Excavator – 6,178 Hours

This used Caterpillar 312CL Excavator is a proven, work-ready machine listed by NLEQ and offered at $62,950. It comes equipped with a Diesel powerplant, Crawler undercarriage, 36" bucket, heated cab, and a standard thumb for confident material handling. NLEQ listing number 147759. Carefully tested and inspected prior to sale, this pre-owned Caterpillar excavator provides buyers with the accurate, honest information expected from a leader in used heavy equipment.

Overview

The Caterpillar 312CL is a respected performer in the 12–13 ton class of excavators, known for dependable operation and balanced capability across utility, site development, and general construction tasks. As a 2001 model, this machine represents a solid blend of Caterpillar durability with the straightforward serviceability many owners prefer. The combination of a crawler undercarriage for traction and stability, a versatile 36-inch bucket, and a thumb makes this used excavator a practical choice for contractors who need reliable digging, trenching, loading, and handling in one machine. With 6,178 hours, it offers a sensible operating history for the age, and the package is rounded out by a heated cab for cold-weather productivity and operator comfort. If you are searching for a used Caterpillar 312CL excavator for sale that is inspected, honestly presented, and priced right, this listing deserves a close look.

Specifications

• NLEQ#: 147759
• Year: 2001
• Make: Caterpillar
• Model: 312CL
• Category: Excavator
• Hours: 6,178
• Price: $62,950
• Fuel Type: Diesel
• Drive: Crawler
• Bucket Size: 36"
• Cab: Heat
• Thumb: Standard

Condition

As with every machine NLEQ offers, this Caterpillar 312CL has been carefully tested and inspected prior to listing so buyers can make decisions with confidence. Functions were evaluated at the time of inspection, and details are represented accurately to the best of our knowledge. This is a used excavator, so buyers should expect normal wear consistent with age and hours. We invite your questions, welcome third-party evaluations, and can help arrange an in-person viewing so you can confirm suitability for your job and preferences.

Advantages

• Diesel reliability and efficiency: The diesel powerplant delivers the torque, fuel economy, and durability that heavy-duty excavation demands. Diesel engines are built for sustained load and long service intervals, making them the go-to choice for contractors who need dependable output shift after shift.
• Crawler traction and stability: A crawler undercarriage provides low ground pressure and sure-footed traction in dirt, mud, and uneven terrain. Tracks distribute weight effectively and allow controlled, stable digging, slewing, and lifting—important for trenching, grading, and working on slopes or soft ground.
• Versatile 36-inch bucket: A 36" bucket strikes a strong balance between trenching efficiency and spoil handling. It is a common size for utility lines, services, and general excavation, offering good penetration while keeping trench widths optimized for backfill and compaction.
• Heated cab for extended season work: Heat in the cab helps your operator stay productive during cold mornings and winter jobs. Comfortable operators make fewer mistakes, work more consistently, and are more likely to stay focused throughout the day—small advantages that add up over time.
• Standard thumb for material control: A thumb dramatically expands what an excavator can do beyond digging—grabbing, sorting, placing, and loading irregular materials like rock, brush, and demolition debris. It enhances control and reduces the need for additional handling equipment on many jobsites.
• Caterpillar build quality: Caterpillar excavators have a global reputation for robust frames, dependable hydraulics, and long parts support. That translates into a machine that holds value over the long term and has readily available parts and service knowledge wherever your projects take you.
• Balanced, contractor-friendly package: With the right combination of traction, control, and attachment capability, this configuration lets crews tackle a wide range of tasks without overcomplicating the fleet. The result is simplified planning, easier training, and strong day-to-day productivity.
• Cost-effective acquisition: A used Caterpillar 312CL provides premium brand performance at a fraction of new cost. The price point helps owners and fleet managers protect cash flow while putting proven iron to work on revenue-producing jobs.

Applications

• Utility trenching and services: Ideal for installing water, sewer, gas, electric, and communications lines where accurate trench widths and clean sidewalls matter. The 36" bucket offers efficient trench volume while managing backfill requirements effectively.
• Site development and mass excavation: From footing excavation to foundation prep and spoils management, the machine’s crawler undercarriage and precise controls support consistent earthmoving in both residential and commercial settings.
• Roadwork and municipal maintenance: Performs well on drainage improvements, culvert work, shoulder shaping, and small bridge approaches. The thumb assists with handling riprap, pipe, and precast components.
• Landscaping and hardscapes: Move boulders, place retaining wall blocks, excavate for ponds or basins, and fine-grade with stability. The heated cab extends your working season when temperatures drop.
• Light demolition and sorting: Use the thumb to pick, sort, and load demolition debris and construction waste efficiently, reducing manual labor and shortening cleanup windows.
• Pipeline and energy: Trench, bed, and backfill lines with reliable traction in varied ground conditions. The machine’s size is well-suited for access-constrained easements and environmentally sensitive areas where footprint control matters.
• General contracting and rental: A versatile, familiar Cat platform that operators recognize quickly and rental customers trust, streamlining training and boosting utilization.

Ownership Value

Choosing a used Caterpillar 312CL Excavator is a practical way to add capability without overextending capital. You get core Caterpillar strengths—resale reputation, proven components, and broad aftermarket support—alongside a configuration tailored to everyday excavation. The diesel engine supports long service intervals and strong fuel economy. The crawler undercarriage helps protect schedules when ground conditions vary. The 36" bucket and thumb reduce task switching by allowing one machine to dig, handle, and place. A heated cab supports productivity and morale in cold weather. Together, these elements make the 312CL a straightforward, revenue-focused addition to a growing fleet.

• Lower total cost of ownership: Pre-owned pricing helps owners avoid early-life depreciation and frees budget for additional attachments, training, or operating capital.
• Productivity from day one: With a bucket and thumb already on the machine, crews can mobilize quickly for trenching, grading, cleanup, and loading.
• Supported by a global network: Caterpillar parts and service resources are widely accessible, helping keep downtime low and planning predictable.
• Operator acceptance: Familiar controls, strong visibility, and a comfortable heated cab help operators perform consistently across long shifts.

Why this 312CL

This machine checks the essential boxes serious buyers care about: trustworthy brand pedigree, the right jobsite configuration, and a fair asking price. The Caterpillar name signals durability and parts availability. The crawler undercarriage, 36-inch bucket, heated cab, and thumb give you the traction, control, comfort, and handling you need for day-to-day work. The hour history is sensible for its vintage, indicating meaningful, productive use over time rather than prolonged idle periods. For contractors and municipalities looking to stretch budget dollars while maintaining capability and safety, this 2001 Caterpillar 312CL excavator is a smart, value-forward pick.

Why Buy from NLEQ

NLEQ is one of the top leaders in selling used heavy construction equipment, and every listing is carefully tested and inspected before it’s offered for sale. Our process focuses on giving buyers accurate, honest, and reliable information, so you can evaluate machines with clarity and act with confidence. We understand the demands of real jobsites and the cost of downtime, and we take pride in presenting used equipment in a straightforward, professional manner. When you work with NLEQ, you’re dealing with a knowledgeable team that stands behind its listings and is committed to helping you find the right machine for your needs.

Next Steps

If this used Caterpillar 312CL Excavator fits your upcoming projects, contact NLEQ to confirm availability and discuss your purchase. Reference the listing number shown above to streamline the process. We can walk you through the details, share inspection information, and help you plan an on-site viewing. Ready to move forward? Request a formal quote today and put this Caterpillar 312CL to work on your next trench, foundation, or site development job. With its Diesel power, Crawler undercarriage, 36" bucket, heated cab, and standard thumb, this excavator is equipped for real productivity from day one.