JCB is celebrating production of its one millionth backhoe loader.
Originally designed for post-war reconstruction, the concept started as an agricultural tractor with a loader fitted to the front and an excavator arm to the rear. By 1953, Joseph Cyril Bamford had designed and launched the Mk.1 machine.
The early model was improved with the launch of the 'Hydra-Digga' in 1956 and the more powerful JCB 4 in 1960. Demand for a smaller, more manoeuvrable model would soon lead to the JCB 3, a backhoe loader for the housebuilder, rather than the civil engineer..
JCB has continued to develop and evolve the concept, adding longer loader arms, a horizontal ‘side shift’ for the backhoe mounting, the six-in-one front shovel and even a kettle for the operator. Turbocharged engines, powershift transmissions, all-wheel drive, the extending dipper arm and auxiliary hydraulics, have turned the unit into one of the most versatile, productive and reliable machines.
The backhoe loader concept continues to expand, from the skid steer loader-based 1CX, through the 3CX Compact and the various 3CX models, to the all-wheel steer 4CX and powerful 5CX. There are Highways Master and Wastemaster trims, even a Polemaster Plus for specialist utility work.
In terms of performance, JCB backhoe loader can load 20 tonnes of material in under five minutes, while using 10% less fuel than a 13-tonne excavator. It can move material across site 25% faster than an 8-tonne excavator and 9-tonne site dumper, while using 50% less fuel. Plus, the machine can be driven to and from site, with no requirement for additional transportation.
See JCB on Stand F40 at the Executive Hire Show - taking place at the Coventry Building Society Arena on February 12/13.
https://www.jcb.com/en-gb
