Used CAT 320B Excavator & CAT 320BL in West Africa | Diggermach

If you ask contractors in Nigeria, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, or Senegal which mid-size digger still makes sense on a working budget, two names come up again and again: the used CAT 320B excavator and the CAT 320BL excavator . Not because these machines are modern — because they are familiar, repairable, and still productive in the 20-ton class. Model years and price range ModelTypical yearsCommon export price CAT 320B excavator 1996–2001 USD 14,000–35,000 CAT 320BL excavator 1996–2002 USD 14,000–35,000 , by condition Price varies by country, machine quality, hours, undercarriage life, and real working performance. A strong unit and a tired unit can sit at opposite ends of the same band. Why West Africa still buys the used CAT 320B excavator The CAT 320B excavator is simpler than many later 320C/D machines, with fewer electronics and more mechanical-hydraulic control. On remote sites far from dealer tools, local workshops can often handle common repairs without specialized diagnostics. Parts support is the other reason. Because so many used CAT excavators from this generation are still running, pumps, motors, undercarriage parts, and related components remain relatively easy to source. For contractors, parts availability often matters more than new-model features. The right size: a 20-ton CAT excavator all-rounder Road work, trenching, building construction, quarry support, and rental fleets all sit comfortably in the 20-ton range. A used CAT 320B excavator is productive enough for daily earthmoving, yet still manageable to transport and maintain. That balance keeps this CAT excavator class liquid across West Africa. CAT 320B vs CAT 320BL CAT 320B : usually a lower purchase price; fine for firmer ground and general construction. CAT 320BL excavator : long undercarriage for better stability on soft, muddy, or uneven ground. If your sites are wet or poorly compacted, many buyers prefer the used CAT 320BL excavator . If the machine will mostly work on better ground and price is tight, a clean 320B can be enough. Common wear points Diggermach sees These machines are often 20+ years old, so budget for known wear items: Swing bearing (turntable) clearance — over time, play develops; repair may require steel balls or turntable/swing bearing work. Travel motor gear wear — weak travel power or uneven tracking are warning signs. Undercarriage (四轮一带) — rollers, idlers, sprockets, and tracks are consumables. On a used CAT 320B excavator or CAT 320BL excavator , undercarriage condition is one of the biggest costs after arrival. Import pricing and resale value Traders continue shipping used CAT excavators from China, Japan, Korea, Europe, and the U.S. into West Africa. For SME contractors and rental companies, a sound used CAT 320B excavator is often the faster way to add capacity without locking too much capital in one asset. Caterpillar still carries strong recognition across Africa. In the 20-ton segment, a well-kept CAT excavator usually resells more easily than lesser-known brands — and that residual value is part of the ownership math. Before you buy: quick inspection priorities Do not decide from paint and hour claims alone. Check: Swing bearing play and swing noise Travel performance both sides under load Undercarriage percentage remaining Hydraulic power under load Engine smoke, oil condition, and cooling package cleanliness Structural cracks at boom foot, stick, and house area These points decide whether a machine at USD 14,000 is a real bargain — or becomes expensive after landing. Bottom line In West Africa, the winning machine is rarely the newest excavator. It is the one your workshop can support. That is why the used CAT 320B excavator (1996–2001) and CAT 320BL excavator (1996–2002) remain practical buys — especially when priced correctly between USD 14,000 and USD 35,000 based on real performance. About Diggermach: Based on Diggermach’s experience supplying and inspecting used excavators for export buyers, with focus on practi...