Caterpillar 226B vs Caterpillar 242B3: Which Is the Better Value?
The Caterpillar 226B averages $15,990 CAD at auction, compared to $26,329 for the Caterpillar 242B3. That's a $10,339 difference. Based on 31 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
The Caterpillar 226B is the better value buy for most Canadian buyers, averaging $10,339 less than the 242B3.
Caterpillar 226B
SSL$15,990 CAD avg
$6,223
Low
$24,287
High
23
Sales
Avg 3,098 hours · 2004–2011 model years
Full price guide →Caterpillar 242B3
SSL$26,329 CAD avg
$23,529
Low
$29,297
High
8
Sales
Avg 1,852 hours · 2012–2013 model years
Full price guide →What are the key differences between 226B and 242B3?
- Price: The 226B is $10,339 cheaper on average (39% savings).
- Usage: Used 226Bs average 3,098 hours while 242B3s average 1,852 hours.
Both Caterpillar and Caterpillar retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a 226B or 242B3? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: 226B or 242B3?
Choose the Caterpillar 226B if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($10,339 savings)
- You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the Caterpillar 242B3 if:
- You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability
How do 226B and 242B3 prices compare by year?
| Year | Caterpillar 226B | Caterpillar 242B3 |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 | — | $26,032 (2) |
| 2012 | — | $26,428 (6) |
| 2011 | $15,749 (4) | — |
| 2006 | $16,779 (4) | — |
| 2005 | $19,095 (3) | — |
| 2004 | $16,773 (10) | — |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do 226B and 242B3 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Caterpillar 226B | Caterpillar 242B3 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $16,289 (2) | $26,032 (2) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | $17,269 (2) | $25,297 (4) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $20,972 (6) | — |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $13,659 (4) | — |
| 4,000+ hrs | $15,041 (5) | $28,690 (2) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a 226B or 242B3 in Canada?
Caterpillar 226B
None Caterpillar 226B
2,154 hrs · St. Albert
$30,000 CAD
2016 Caterpillar 226B
1,274 hrs · Steinbach
$34,900 CAD
Caterpillar 242B3
No active listings right now.
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