JCB extended its range of compact wheeled loading shovels with the launch of the JCB 403 and JCB 409.
The new models give the operator increased choice when working in applications such as local authority and civil engineering contracts, commercial developments, agriculture and landscaping.
The compact loading shovel (CLS) is popular in Europe and North America due to its versatility, maneuverability and simplicity. Agriculture and landscaping are key target markets for the 403 with applications including pig and poultry farming where low building heights limit machine suitability. The 409 will typically be seen working in road developments, house construction and building yards where machines with powerful lifting capabilities and compact dimensions are required.
The 403 offers ease of operation, reliability, durability and compact dimensions with low maintenance. Powered by a 36 hp (27 kW) engine, it features a bucket capacity of 0.4 cu. yd. (0.3 cu m) with a transport speed of 9 mph (15 kmh).
With the articulated design of the machine, the operator’s seat is positioned on the rear chassis, giving enhanced forward visibility to the loader and attachment. Standard and high-lift loader arm sets are available, giving dump heights of 7 and 7.9 ft. (2 and 2.4 m). This enables loading into standard or high-sided hoppers or trucks.
The machine features a hydrostatic transmission system, where a single variable displacement hydraulic pump drives four individual wheel motors. This design increases ground clearance and eliminates the use of conventional axles with an exposed propshaft driveline, which can often lead to materials, such as bale string, becoming tangled around the propshaft. The motors are connected so that tractive effort is still generated even if three wheels are slipping.
Routine maintenance and servicing is made simple with access to engine, transmission and hydraulic circuit components through a fully opening rear body work and seat base configuration. The machine is now in production having been previewed at Bauma last year.
Making its first appearance is the JCB 409, a larger CLS equally well placed in a housing development or road building project as in a landscaping or agricultural setting. It combines high performance and ease of operation allied with compact dimensions to give operators a universal machine. The 409 shares many of the features of the 406 compact loading shovel with increased performance seen in lifting height and capacity.
The new design, with a parallel lift loader end with narrow robust arms, has improved visibility to the attachment. This enables easier, faster and safer load placement for the operator when handling palletized loads. Cycle times are reduced further with separate steering and hydraulic pumps. The loader arm hydraulics remain independent for faster cycle times and increased productivity.
With a standard bucket capacity of 1.3 cu. yd. (1 cu m), the 409 offers a straight tipping load of 10,950 lbs. (4,967 kg) and a full turn tipping load of 8,406 lbs. (3,813 kg). With optional pallet forks fitted, the machine can handle a 5,511-lb. (2,500 kg) load.
Power is provided by a Tier III compliant 73 hp (56 kW) turbocharged diesel engine with integrated cooling. This drives through a hydrostatic transmission with variable displacement hydrostatic pump. The system provides stepless adjustment of speed and traction on both axles. The hydrostatic drive enables in-built braking and the ability to “inch” forward using the foot brake.
Keeping the machine moving and productive is not an issue due to the oscillating centre joint and optional limited slip axles. The oscillating and articulating centre pivot keeps all wheels on the ground maintaining traction and productivity. Limited slip axles enhance this further giving increased traction and performance.
The cab offers 360-degree visibility including an enhanced view of the loader end, while there is simple access and egress and intuitive controls. The hydraulic quick hitch locking system enables simple changeover of JCB attachments.
Safety has been kept in mind with the carrying out of routine maintenance and servicing. The engine bay can be easily accessed from ground level with a wide-opening bonnet and grouped service points. Maintenance intervals also have been extended to 1,000 hours (500 hours on engine), reducing downtime and, in turn, cost. In-board oil immersed disc brakes are virtually maintenance free giving further saving on costs.
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