Choosing the right motor grader is a big decision for any construction company, but for small crews, it can feel even more important. Your machine must be powerful enough to get the job done, easy enough for your operators to handle, and affordable enough to meet your budget.
That’s where Caterpillar comes in. Awards for building robust and operator-appreciated equipment. Caterpillar manufactures several types of graders to meet the requirements of diverse job sites. With numerous models, though, how do you decide which is best for your crew?
If you need Cat motor graders, you have to understand the differences between models and how those differences meet your specific requirements.
Whether you are grading roads to access sites, preparing a foundation, or dealing with municipal projects, this will help you make an informed, smart choice.
Start with the Size of Your Jobs
For a small construction business, flexibility is the major thing. You must have a grader capable of a variety of jobs. So, it does not require lots of operator work and extra maintenance.
This design is made in a way that delivers simplicity and fuel economy. It provides the correct compromise of speed and cost-effectiveness. Particularly in crews that require a low-budget tool to work on minor grading jobs. Such as driveway grading, lot preparation, or even light municipal grading.
It has lower operating costs and is easy to operate. Thus, a great alternative to newer companies with minimal experience using a grader.
The 120 GC does not necessarily have all the optional extras that some of its rivals do, but what it does not have in the advanced, it more than makes up for in dependability and functionality. It ticks all the right boxes in regard to crews that want a dependable day-to-day performance.
Consider Operator Experience and Training Time
Operator skill level is one of the most frequent problems of small crews. Not all teams possess experienced grader operators who are prepared to perform complicated blade control or complicated grade regulation forms of management.
That is one of the reasons why a lot of contractors love Cat motor graders, and that is due to their easy-to-use controls and comfortable operator quarters.
Caterpillar creates its cab layout in such a way that it reduces the learning curve. Examples of such models are the Cat 120 and the Cat 140, which utilize the ease of operation of joystick controls more than other steering wheel and lever systems.
These ergonomic designs not only make the working environment of the operators more comfortable even during long workdays, but also enable new operators to feel more certain more quickly.
These models provide a better way of onboarding new team members or existing employees so that they can become grader operators.
It is also possible to equip it with advanced features later. Most Cat motor graders are designed to be upgradeable in the sense that it is possible to begin with the bare bones and add grade control systems, telematics, and other features as your crew becomes more experienced and your job site more demanding.
Maintenance and Uptime Matter
With a small crew, downtime can quickly cause a project to fail. The grader you select needs to be long-lasting and simple to maintain because you don’t have extra workers or idle equipment to cover the gaps.
Thankfully, Caterpillar places a high priority on serviceability throughout its range of graders. The Cat 120 GC’s easier maintenance design makes it particularly appealing to small contractors.
Its reduced fuel consumption lowers how often you need to refuel and cuts costs, while routine checks finish quickly.
Caterpillar’s focus on easily accessible service points and remote diagnostics keeps your equipment in top condition. Even when you upgrade to the more advanced Cat 120 or Cat 140.
Think About Cost and Long-Term Value
Any small company must keep an eye on its bottom line. Cat motor graders are powerful and have good resale value as well, thus excellent long-term investment prospects.
The Cat 120 GC is the lowest price, and it is an incredible value to businesses. It is a machine that will complete the same task without requiring an enormous chunk of your budget.
The second thing you should consider is the presence of used Cat motor graders. The value of Caterpillar machines remains very well, and a used model, which is in good condition. That can provide almost as much performance as a new one, at a fraction of the price.
This is what makes them an excellent option among small contractors. Those who seeking to secure a balance between quality and low cost.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the ideal Caterpillar motor grader for small construction teams involves balancing performance, ease of use, and affordability.
For businesses just starting out or those seeking reliable light-duty performance, the Cat 120 GC is a fantastic entry-level choice.
For crews prepared to take on larger or more complicated tasks. The Cat 120 and Cat 140 provide additional power and technology.
Whichever model you select, Cat motor graders provide dependability and operator comfort. Especially for small crews, they require working effectively and developing self-assurance.
