Equipment World Digital Magazine
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/652983
EquipmentWorld.com | March 2016 45 ture on JCB machines are on, off or auto. "We recommend auto mode," says Rafael Nunez, backhoe product loader marketing specialist, JCB. "Auto maximizes loading produc- tivity while reducing spillage, and eliminating the bobble-head effect on drivers during travel." The optional Speed Selectable Automatic Ride Control on Case ma- chines kicks in automatically when the machine is traveling at a specifi c speed. In addition to electronics- enabled productivity features, Case also offers hardware- based improvements. While typical lock-to-lock is three full turns of the steering wheel, op- tional Comfort Steer cuts this in half, allowing the operator to maneuver more quickly and effi ciently. Case ProControl is a swing-damping fea- ture that eliminates rebound on the backhoe. "ProControl reduces wear on components, lowers fatigue and provides greater precision for the operator," says Katie Pullen, Case backhoe brand marketing manager. Optional Power Lift increases the hy- draulic capacities of the boom and bucket forces, allowing the machine to lift up to 8 percent more. Tim Boulds, Kubota's construc- tion equipment product operations manager, says versatility is the key productivity feature on backhoe loaders. Quick couplers on both ends of Kubota machines not only facilitate bucket changes, but also make it easy to use pallet forks, grader boxes and other tools. A four-point rear quick mount allows the backhoe assembly to be de- tached when it's not needed. "Our hydraulically-independent PTO allows the use of implements such as rotary tillers, snowblowers, and rear-mounted mowers that can be engaged and disengaged without stopping the tractor," says Boulds. BACKHOES