Caterpillar Backhoe Loaders

Lift truck handling of pallet and palletless loads requires different attachments. Here are the details of the various types and how they can reduce costs and improve handling efficiencies.

Construction Equipment - April 1, 2006

Larry Stewart
Executive Editor

Factory-Installed Grade Electronics

Caterpillar's E-Series backhoe-loaders (introduced early this year) have the industry's first factory-installed electronics to support an automatic grade-reference system. Product Link and an entry-level AccuGrade system are options. The AccuGrade BHL Site Reference System adds position sensors to the backhoe's hydraulic cylinders and an inclinometer, which allow it to determine the position of the bucket relative to a known reference point, such as a grade stake, on the site. Caterpillar plans to introduce the BHL Laser System before year's end.

Number of models: 3

New models: 416E, 420E and 430E

Product-line features: Cat redesigned the frames, booms, sticks and axles for the E Series, and switched to an exterior-sliding extendable dipper stick. A new flow-sharing hydraulic valve meters oil evenly to all functions even when using several at the same time. Most backhoeforces increased 10 percent on the 420E and 430E.