Cat launches E series backhoe loaders: three models offer improved hydraulics, more breakout...

Caterpillar Inc. has launched the next generation of its backhoe loaders, the E series. The new range encompasses three models with a cadre of new features targeted toward operator productivity. Included in the lineup are the 416E, 420E and 430E backhoe

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The 416E is Cat's entry-level machine targeted toward rental fleets with a dig depth of 14.3 ft. The 420E and 430E models are offered in integrated tool-carrier configurations, giving them application in jobs requiring quick tool changeout or a paralleling loading linkage. Dig depth across these machines is 14.3 and 15.42 ft., respectively.

Redesigning the line, according to Joe Carman, backhoe loader product manager at Cat, focused "on bringing value to our customers," as well as "saving time, which is money to our customers." To hit this target, Cat focused on increasing hydraulic performance and productivity on the loaders, as well as improving operator comfort, adding its AccuGrade leveling system (a first for the Cat backhoe loaders) and offering a factory-installed thumb on all three models.

Cat's 4.4 L four-cylinder inline Tier 2 3054C diesel is installed across the range at ratings of 74, 89 and 97 net hp. A direct-injection, naturally aspirated engine is used on the 416E machine and a direct-injection turbo-charged (DIT) version is standard in the 420E and 430E backhoe loaders. The 3054C DIT engine is also available on the 416E loader, boosting the output to 89 net hp as an option. The engines are also teamed with a dry-type axial seal air cleaner and a Denso Marsten cooling package.

A Cat power shuttle transmission, designed and built at Turner Powertrain Systems, provides four forward and four reverse speeds. The drive is paired with Cat axles engineered to spec by Carraro, which together are designed to give the E series 25% higher travel speed at 25 mph. The axle package incorporates outboard planetary gears in the rear and has a 4 in. larger wheelbase than the D series machines. An autoshift version of the transmission is available on the 420E and 430E models, Caterpillar said.

The E series' hydraulic circuit now incorporates a flow-sharing valve from Sauer-Danfoss in the 416E and Bosch Rexroth in the larger two machines. This valve ensures flow to all implements for multifunction operation, which Ken Hershberger, backhoe loader senior project consultant at Cat said, will occur "even when you're asking for demand on every function."