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 loaders, all upgrades of the previous D series machines Cat introduced five years earlier.
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.
