JCB backhoes go platinum

The first JCB model, in 1953, combined a lightweight backhoe with a Major Loadall tractor loader.
By David Arminas November 14, 2023 Read time: 2 mins
JCB backhoe loaders: 70 years young

JCB says that it is celebrating 70 years of its backhoe loader with what it says are platinum editions of the 3CX and 4CX models.

In a press release, the company said that its founder, Joseph Bamford, “invented the backhoe concept”. The first JCB model was manufactured in 1953 after he combined a lightweight backhoe with a Major Loadall tractor loader. “It created, for the first time, a single machine which combined a front shovel and rear excavator arm.”

More than 900,000 have been made in the UK, India and Brazil. A total of 70 limited-edition 70th birthday 3CX PRO and 4 CX PRO machines will be manufactured.

“The backhoe loader is an incredibly versatile machine and thanks to continued innovation and evolution, it remains just as relevant today as the day it was first invented,” said Bamford.

The platinum edition models will have servo excavator controls, Powerslide, air conditioning and bi-directional auxiliary flow hydraulics. The machines will bear limited edition decals and grille badge and have platinum-coloured wheels. In the cab there will be an embroidered graphic in the carpet and upgraded seat material with 70th anniversary branding, along with a steering wheel centre cap featuring the 70th logo. 

JCB said that it has continued to develop and enhance the backhoe loader concept, with turbocharged engines, powershift transmissions, all-wheel drive and extending dipper arms. The machine broadened in appeal with the launch of the skid-steer-based 1CX, the all-wheel steer 3CX Compact and the larger 4CX and 5CX equal-sized wheel machines.

Earthmoving & soil compaction

For more information on companies in this article

JCB

Related Content

  • JCB strengthen CIS excavator range
    March 7, 2012
    JCB is strengthening its range of JS Auto tracked excavators for the Russian and CIS markets with the addition of the 29tonne JS290. Unveiled at CONEXPO Russia, the new machine is based on the undercarriage components and upper structure of the larger JS330. The JS290 is powered by the same six-cylinder EU Stage 3A compliant diesel engine and it bridges the gap between the S260 Auto and JS330 Auto in the existing line up. JCB says that by using this large capacity 7.8litre engine, the JS290 offers an unstre
    Read More
  • Wacker Neuson launches skid steer and compact track loaders
    March 9, 2017
    Wacker Neuson has launched a new line of medium-frame skid steer and compact track loaders at CONEXPO-CON/AGG that the company says are ideal for a variety of applications.
    Read More
  • Stabilising performance from reclaimers
    June 18, 2012
    New stabiliser/reclaimer models are coming to market – Mike Woof reports With road recycling becoming a more widely used approach, several key manufacturers are meeting demands for higher performance. From BOMAG comes the latest version of the MPH 125 soil stabiliser/recycler, which is now available with the new FLEXMIX technology. This package is said to set new standards in mix quality for all applications, with an optional change in the mix function that broadens the range of options available to the
    Read More
  • Construction adapting with Machine control Technologies
    June 18, 2015
    Machine control technologies are revolutionising construction – Dan Gilkes writes Electronic control of engines, transmissions and hydraulic systems, primarily to reduce exhaust emissions and boost productivity, is also providing manufacturers with an opportunity to incorporate increasingly complex machine control into their equipment. This in turn has the potential to make the machinery more productive, further cutting fuel consumption as part of a virtuous operational circle.
    Read More

Highlighted Content