JCB expands backhoe offering

Heavy machinery specialist JCB's 3CX Compact backhoe loader, which has been designed for work in tight and narrow spaces, has touched down in Australia.

Compared to the original 3CX, the more nimble offering gives better manoeuvrability while maintaining the same levels of productivity and versatility, JCB says.

"Its small footprint and incredible all-round visibility is perfect for working in confined areas, it's easy and intuitive to use, has great mobility and manoeuvrability and with servo controls, will suit operators of backhoes and excavators," says JCB Construction Equipment Australia (CEA) National Product Manager for backhoe loaders, Glenn McLeod.

"With the 3CX Compact we are delivering a real master of all trades, a machine that is suitable for operation in road maintenance, metropolitan construction, utility work, or any task that requires maximum performance in a compact package."

Four-wheel steering gives the machine a tight turning radius of just 5.8m.

The 3CX Compact is compatible with a range of backhoe loader, mini excavator and skid-steer loader attachments, allowing it to carry out a wide range of construction tasks.

It is powered by a low-emission Tier 4 Final/Stage IIIB JCB Diesel by Kohler engine, delivering 74hp.

The engine drives through a three-speed hydrostatic transmission to all four wheels for maximum traction in difficult site conditions. The transmission offers a 40km/h top travelling speed, which according to JCB is 17 per cent faster than its predecessor.

Hydraulic flow has also been increased by 19 per cent to 100lt/min. Standard excavator servo levers offer ease of operation and familiarity to operators who have worked with both excavators and backhoe loaders.

"Up to 75lt/min of bi-directional auxiliary flow allows a wide range of hydraulic attachments to be used, including augers, increasing the versatility and productivity of the backhoe," says McLeod.

It also features a load over height of 2.98 m and max forward reach at full height of 1.11m for easy loading of trucks and other high-sided haulage solutions. The machine can be ordered with a hydraulic quickhitch for faster attachment changeover.

“The 3CX Compact is also the ideal machine for road maintenance," McLeod says.

"Parallel-lift loader arms ensure maximum load retention and JCB's smooth ride loader suspension system (SRS) is standard, improving comfort for the operator and limiting spill from the front shovel."

In the operator's cab, a fully adjustable suspension seat and a heater come as standard, while air conditioning is available as an option.

JCB's LiveLink telematic tracking and monitoring system is available with the 3CX Compact, allowing fleet managers to monitor machine performance and operating health remotely. Its real-time tracking feature keeps operators in the loop on where their machines are at all times and allows them to respond swiftly in the event of a machine theft.

For more information on the 3CX Compact backhoe loader, go to jcbcea.com.au.