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Caterpillar Generator Inventory

Key Facts: Caterpillar generators span 15kW to 3500kW+ across diesel and natural gas platforms. Core engine families include the C-Series (C7 through C32), the legacy 3400 Series (3406, 3408, 3412), and the heavy-duty 3500 Series (3508, 3512, 3516). Pre-owned Caterpillar sets typically range from $15,000 for smaller units to over $500,000 for late-model 2000kW+ packages.

Browse Power Generation Enterprises' Caterpillar generator inventory below — over 1,600 units from 100kW to 2,500kW+. For detailed model information, specifications, and buying guidance, visit our full Caterpillar Generators brand page. Questions? Call (818) 484-8550.

Popular Caterpillar Generator Models

Engine ModelPower RangeFuel TypeTypical Price
3406/C15250-500kWDiesel$20,000-$85,000
3412/3412C500-800kWDiesel$35,000-$125,000
C27750-800kWDiesel$80,000-$150,000
C321000-1250kWDiesel$100,000-$200,000
3512/3512C1000-1500kWDiesel$85,000-$250,000
3516/3516C1750-2500kWDiesel$150,000-$500,000+
G3412/G3512375-600kWNatural Gas$45,000-$250,000
G3516/G35201000-2500kWNatural Gas$150,000-$400,000

About Caterpillar

Caterpillar Inc. traces its roots to the 1925 merger of Holt Manufacturing and C.L. Best Tractor Company, though its involvement in power generation accelerated through the mid-twentieth century as industrial demand for reliable standby and prime power surged. Today CAT is the single largest manufacturer of diesel and natural gas generator sets worldwide, with production facilities spanning the United States, the United Kingdom, India, Brazil, and China.

The company designs and manufactures its own engines, alternators, and control systems in-house, giving it end-to-end quality control that few competitors can replicate. The 3400 Series engines introduced in the 1980s became the backbone of the commercial generator market and remain in widespread service today. The C-Series and electronically controlled 3500 Series pushed efficiency and emissions compliance forward, while the XQ line of mobile power modules became the de facto standard on construction sites and disaster recovery operations across North America.

Why Choose Caterpillar Generators?

Vertically Integrated Manufacturing

Caterpillar designs its own engines, generators, switchgear, and controls. This single-source approach means every component is engineered to work together, reducing integration issues and simplifying maintenance across the entire power system.

Unmatched Dealer & Parts Network

With over 2,200 dealer locations in 193 countries, CAT has the broadest service and parts distribution of any generator manufacturer. Critical replacement parts are often available same-day, minimizing unplanned downtime for mission-critical facilities.

XQ Mobile Power Platform

The XQ line of rental-grade power modules set the industry standard for portable generation. Purpose-built enclosures, integrated fuel tanks, forklift pockets, and plug-and-play paralleling make them the first choice for construction, events, and emergency response applications.

Advanced Digital Controls

EMCP (Electronic Modular Control Panel) platforms provide comprehensive monitoring, automated load management, and remote connectivity out of the box. Newer units support Cat Connect telematics for fleet-wide visibility and predictive maintenance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the CAT 3400 Series and C-Series engines?+

The 3400 Series (3406, 3408, 3412) are mechanically governed engines from the 1980s and 1990s valued for their simplicity and field serviceability. The C-Series (C7 through C32) introduced electronic fuel injection, tighter emissions compliance, and improved fuel efficiency. Both remain widely used, though C-Series units are preferred for Tier 2+ emissions environments.

Are Caterpillar generators good for standby applications?+

Caterpillar is one of the most widely specified brands for standby power in hospitals, data centers, and commercial buildings. Their EMCP control systems provide automatic transfer functionality, and the deep parts network ensures rapid service response when uptime is non-negotiable.

How do CAT XQ power modules compare to standard generator sets?+

XQ units are factory-packaged mobile generators with weather-rated enclosures, integrated fuel systems, sound attenuation, and trailer or skid mounting. They are designed for rapid deployment and harsh outdoor conditions, while standard sets are typically configured for permanent installation in controlled environments.

What does a used Caterpillar generator cost?+

Pricing varies widely by model, condition, and hours. Smaller units like a C9 or 3406 in the 250-500kW range typically sell between $20,000 and $85,000. Mid-range 3412C sets (600-800kW) run $35,000 to $125,000. Large 3516C packages above 2000kW can range from $150,000 to well over $500,000 depending on tier rating and hours.

Does Caterpillar make natural gas generators?+

Yes. The G-Series includes the G3412 (375-500kW), G3512 (500-600kW), G3516 (1000-1500kW), and G3520 (2000-2500kW). These are widely used in cogeneration, landfill gas, biogas, and pipeline compression applications where natural gas fuel is available or preferred over diesel.

Find Your Caterpillar Generator

Power Generation Enterprises stocks one of the largest Caterpillar generator inventories in North America. Our team can help match the right unit to your power requirements and budget.

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