The much-anticipated range of updated JCB 3CX backhoe loaders arrives on South African shores in July and promises to boost the brand’s popularity with new features designed to deliver better comfort, versatility and productivity, ultimately reducing costs and increasing efficiency.
Bell Equipment Sales Product Manager for JCB products, Massyn Jansen Van Vuuren, says: “This new range of models will replace the existing JCB 3CX Eco, 3DX and 3CX Global product line. The makeover of the new cabin is the most noticeable change and is sure to impress.The striking new design uses high-quality molded plastics, and the pillars and roof are light gray for a lighter, more spacious feel.
He continues: “Most importantly, the new cab places a strong focus on operator safety, comfort and ease of operation. For example, the loader lever has been simplified to function like a loader wheels.The 3CX range now has a single lever loader control that incorporates an FNR directional switch so an operator can control the loader and transmission with one hand.There is also a proportional switch next to the lever the 6-in-1 bucket, which further reduces the effort required to operate the machine.”
The new EasyShift transmission with “kick down” is standard across the range and simplifies gear shifting, which is done by turning the FNR directional lever on the side of the steering wheel. The downshift switch is located on the floor and allows the operator to downshift from second to first when additional thrust is needed for site loading or unloading.
Massyn continues: “All cabs are ROPS/FOPS certified and the seat rotation area is larger to give the operator more room, which together with improved cab sealing to prevent the entry of water and dust, creates a cleaner and more pleasant working space. There is also improved visibility of the working area behind the machine.”
In addition, the 3CX Plus model features a new high-performance HVAC air conditioning system with 21 adjustable air vents strategically placed around the front console, the “B” pillar and the rear of the machine to direct airflow to maximize comfort and defogging performance. The 3CX has a B-pillar mounted fan as standard.
Under the bonnet, the JCB 3CX range benefits from improved hydraulic efficiency thanks to new variable displacement piston pumps which are standard on all models. The larger pump delivers 150 lpm, 39% more than the previous model. This allows the engine speed to be reduced while maintaining productivity by effectively reducing fuel consumption. In addition, the variable flow pump only provides flow on demand and reduces flow when not needed, to reduce engine load and improve fuel consumption.
Plus and Pro models feature a road-enhancing Smooth Ride system as standard and can be supplied with a 6-in-1 shovel with the option of folding forks for added versatility. “The 6-in-1 shovel can be used for sleeping, loading, digging, grabbing, spreading and leveling, while the optional folding forks are ideal for machines that will double as a forklift for pick-up and drop-off activities. around the workplace and to unload vehicles”, he adds.
Lighting has been improved with six LED work lights instead of halogen lights. There are two adjustable LEDs on the front and four on the back, two of which are adjustable. During night operations, the operator will be able to safely exit both the machine and the job site with the help of a “guide me home” light system that keeps the work lights on for 30 seconds after the ignition is turned off.
Other useful standard features include an in-cab boom lock, front and rear washer/wiper functions, Return To Dig function, electronic throttle control, Bluetooth radio and USB ports, front and side LCD display, a column of adjustable steering and a battery isolator. key, which allows the operator to isolate the machine’s electricity while performing machine maintenance.
“As a whole, the new 3CX range has a machine to suit every requirement and we hope these new machines will add real value and strengthen JCB’s position as the world’s leading backhoe brand. We have a fleet of units that will be used across the country to familiarize customers with the new range and improvements, so we encourage customers to contact their nearest Bell dealer and experience the machines for themselves.” says Massyn.
