JCB has unveiled its latest generation of backhoe loaders this week, with a host of new features aimed at boosting global sales of the machine it launched 70 years ago.
The new 4CX Pro backhoe includes the Dual Drive system (Photo: PPI)
Richard Brooks, JCB’s group director of product and innovation, said that to some extent the backhoe had “fallen out of favour” with some of the company’s European customers.
“Some say it’s old technology,” he said, adding, “But we’ve been busy.”
Books said JCB engineers have focused heavily on backhoe development over the past 12 months and introduced new features aimed at updating the iconic backhoe “with a host of innovations and improvements, making it a again in the most versatile”. , durable, productive and relevant construction machine for the modern world.”
The 2024 upgrades, applied to the 3CX, 4CX and 5CX models, are designed to simplify operator tasks and increase productivity.
Key developments include the introduction of Dual Drive, a single loading lever, revised steering control, a return-to-level function, a laser level support and an improved quick coupler with a wider fork carriage.
Dual Drive for greater operator control
Available as standard on 3CX Pro and 4CX Pro machines, with servo controls, Dual Drive allows operators to steer and reposition the machine without turning the seat, improving efficiency in tasks such as ditch cleaning, grading, breaking or planning of patches
JCB applications and training manager Georgina Williams explained: “You have a roller switch on the left servo lever, which controls the steering, and the right lever has a forward and reverse selector switch back.
“This [feature] it further differentiates us from our competition and reinforces our commitment to having the easiest and most comfortable backhoe to use.”
Steam operations
A 178mm monitor on the back of the loader provides a clear view of the front via a bird’s eye camera, improving visibility for the operator.
Standard on all manual control machines will be a 6-in-1 single-lever load control, allowing control of the load and transmission with one hand and steering with the other.
The return-to-level function simplifies angle setting for level work, providing an automated solution for optimal blade rotation during leveling tasks.
JCB has also incorporated a 2D laser receiver mount into the front loader torsion box, improving grading accuracy and promising reduced time and fuel consumption.
The integrated quick hitch with forks has been improved for stability and ease of use, with a wider fork support and additional features to improve operator visibility.
JCB has standardized a six-speed Autoshift transmission on the 3CX and 4CX, while TorqueLock is now also a standard feature, designed to reduce journey times and improve fuel efficiency.
The new backhoes now also have improved visibility, with eight standard LED work lights.
Updates and additional features
A number of smaller improvements have been incorporated, including simplified activation of the excavator’s quick hitch, new tire options, a seat belt warning feature and a green beacon socket for the Kingdom market united
Key new developments:
- Dual Drive, which allows the machine to be repositioned without turning the driver’s seat
- Single loading lever to reduce operator effort
- Revised steering control for faster and easier use
- Back-to-note function to improve performance
- Laser level assembly for easy 2D installation
- Improved quick hitch with a wider fork carriage
Richard Brooks said: “These upgrades and improvements maintain JCB’s position as the world’s leading manufacturer of backhoe loaders.
“By making life easier for the operator, with greater comfort and control, JCB has ensured that the 3CX, 4CX and 5CX remain the first choice for operators.”
