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Whilst JCB's UK developed small loaders have been radial arm models, the first
of the new generation machines from Savannah are all vertical lift path models. The
new range will be expanded in future to embrace radial arm versions but JCB has
chosen to launch the line with vertical lift path units as it states that this
configuration now accounts for 70% of market volume.
Compared to the radial arm arrangement, the vertical lift path configuration
provides greater forward reach at maximum height. As the forks or bucket
move up vertically rather than in an arc, the machine can stand closer to a
vehicle it is loading.
Cheaper to produce
As well as having the vertical lift path design, the first of the new generation
JCB small loaders score over the company's existing Series 2 designs by having
less parts and being more cheaper to manufacture. They are also easier to service and will allow greater coverage
in the large North American market. The company contends that, where as its eight Series 2 models could cover
53% of the market, its 18 new generation units will ultimately be able to cover 97%.
JCB states that skid steer and compact tracked loaders account for 42% of the North American compact
equipment market which, with matched attachments, is worth $1.5 billion a year. According to Larry Ashley, JCB's
Sales Support Manager in North America, the biggest sectors within this market opportunity are landscaping (31%),
farming (20%) and rental (20%) followed by excavation, concrete and road construction (12%).
In promoting its side mounted single 'PowerBoom' design, JCB contends that this arrangement scores over twin
arm designs because it does not require a torque tube across the back of the machine. The lack of this torque tube
and a nearside loader support tower contributes to very good visibility. To counter any concerns about the durability
of its design, the manufacturer states that the PowerBoom contains up to 20% more steel than the two arms of
ordinary skid steer or compact tracked loaders.
Mounting the single PowerBoom on the offside of the machine allows JCB to have an opening door on the
nearside. The company is quick to highlight the safety advantage of this arrangement. It states 'climbing over large
and potentially dangerous attachments to enter the front windows of ordinary skid steers is by no means the safest
way to go'. Now, with the new generation JCB small loaders, the side entry is even easier as the door size is 40%
larger than the previous models.
The initial seven new generation models comprise the 260, 280, 300 and 330 wheeled skid steers and the 260T,
300T, 320T compact track loaders. These are large platform machines with rated operating capacities of 1179kg and
above.
Driven by Dieselmax engines
Powered by JCB Dieselmax TC-63 or TC-68 engines, the new loaders have a full servo controlled hydrostatic transmission
with two travel speed ranges. To provide greater operator comfort when transporting materials over rough
First New Generation JCB
Skid Steer and Compact Tracked Loaders
Model Operating Operating Dieselmax Engine Machine
Weight Capacity Engine Power Width
(kg) (kg) Type (kW) (mm)
260 3615 1179 TC-63 63.0 1830
260T 4628 1179 TC-63 63.0 1980
280 3655 1270 TC-63 63.0 1830
300 3823 1361 TC-68 68.6 1830
300T 4836 1361 TC-68 68.6 1980
320T 4961 1452 TC-68 68.6 1980
330 3959 1495 TC-68 68.6 1880
T in model designation denotes tracked machine
The side mounted single PowerBoom does not
require a torque tube across the back of the
machine or two support towers so rear visibility is
better than that found on many twin arm
competitors.
terrain, the machines can be supplied
with an optional Smooth Ride
System.
Controlled by standard (3-way)
or new multi-function (7-way) servo
joysticks (or more traditional hand
and foot controls), the machines
have a standard auxiliary hydraulic
flow rate of 87 litre/min (with a
135 litre/min high flow as the
option). A universal mechanical
hitch is standard with an hydraulic
quick hitch as the option.
The new cab is a full ROPS and
Level 1 FOPS structure that can, as
an option, be fitted with a Level 2
guard to cater for demolition duties.
To enhance all round visibility, JCB
Page 26 CP&E Contractors Plant & Equipment Vol 1 No 8