Caterpillar 426C, 1997 Technical Specifications
| SideShift or CenterMount | CM |
| SAE dig depth (mm) | 4696 |
| Reach @ ground level (mm) | 7146 |
| Loading height (mm) | 3815 |
| Bucket width, min-max (mm) | 300-900 |
| Bucket breakout (kgf) | 6557 |
| Dipper breakout (kgf) | 3864 |
| Slew System | Cylinder |
| Loader Bucket Capacity (m3) | 1 |
| Dump height (mm) | 2575 |
| Bucket width (mm) | 2406 |
| Bucket breakout (kgf) | 4619 |
| Engine Make & Model | Cat 3054T |
| Engine power (kW@rpm) | 59@2200 |
| Engine displacement (lit) | 4 |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Pump type | VDAP |
| Pump flow (lit/min) | 162 |
| Relief valve pressure (bar) | 207 |
| Transmission type | P’shuttle |
| Drive | 2WD/4WD |
| Speeds, FR | 44 |
| Maximum speed (km/h) | 32 |
| Ride control (Std/Opt/NA) | — |
| Travel length (mm) | 7260 |
| Travel height (mm) | 3770 |
| Width (mm) | 2262 |
| Turn circle radius without brakes (mm) | 8200 |
| Operating weight (kg) | 6750 |
| Model | 426C |
Introduction
The Caterpillar 426C, 1997 model, is a versatile backhoe loader suitable for various applications, including construction, landscaping, and farming. It comes with several features and specifications that make it stand out from other backhoe loaders in the market. However, like any other machinery, it has its advantages and disadvantages, which this article aims to explore.
SideShift or CenterMount
The Caterpillar 426C backhoe loader comes with the option of either a SideShift or CenterMount. The SideShift option allows for the operator to adjust the position of the backhoe relative to the center of the loader, while the CenterMount keeps the backhoe centered on the chassis.
Advantages:
The SideShift option offers the advantage of increased maneuverability in tight spaces where the operator needs to adjust the position of the backhoe frequently. On the other hand, the CenterMount option provides better stability and lifting capacity, making it suitable for heavier applications.
Disadvantages:
The SideShift option may reduce the lifting capacity of the backhoe due to its position outside the center of the loader. Also, the constant adjustment of the backhoe position may cause stress to the equipment.
SAE Dig Depth
The SAE dig depth specification indicates the maximum depth to which the backhoe can dig.
Advantages:
The Caterpillar 426C backhoe loader has an SAE dig depth of 4696mm, allowing it to dig deeper than some of its competitors. The increased dig depth improves the versatility of the machinery and allows it to handle deeper excavation tasks.
Disadvantages:
A deeper dig depth may lead to instability issues, especially in softer soils, and may require additional support during excavation.
Reach @ Ground Level
The Reach @ Ground Level specification refers to the maximum horizontal distance the backhoe can reach from its initial position.
Advantages:
With a Reach @ Ground Level of 7146mm, the Caterpillar 426C backhoe loader can handle a wide range of excavation tasks, including reaching over obstacles and loading material onto high dump trucks.
Disadvantages:
A longer reach may reduce the stability of the equipment and increase the likelihood of tipping, especially when handling heavy loads.
Loading Height and Bucket Width
Loading height and Bucket Width are specifications that relate to the loader bucket.
Advantages:
With a loading height of 3815mm and a bucket width of 300-900mm, the Caterpillar 426C backhoe loader can handle various materials, including loose soil, sand, and gravel. The bucket width allows the operator to scoop a wide range of materials, while the loading height provides flexibility in loading onto different truck heights.
Disadvantages:
The bucket width may limit the accuracy of the equipment in handling materials, especially when working in narrow spaces. Also, a higher loading height may reduce stability, leading to a greater risk of tipping over.
Bucket Breakout and Dipper Breakout
Bucket Breakout and Dipper Breakout refers to the force required to dislodge materials from the ground.
Advantages:
With a Bucket Breakout of 6557kgf and a Dipper Breakout of 3864kgf, the Caterpillar 426C backhoe loader can handle challenging excavation tasks, including digging through tough soil and rocks.
Disadvantages:
A high breakout force may cause the equipment to wear down faster, leading to increased maintenance costs.
Slew System
The Slew System specification refers to the mechanism used to rotate the backhoe.
Advantages:
With a Cylinder Slew System, the Caterpillar 426C backhoe loader can rotate the backhoe smoothly and with precision, providing greater accuracy in digging and handling materials.
Disadvantages:
A Cylinder Slew System may have a slower rotation speed compared to other systems, reducing efficiency in handling materials.
Loader Bucket Capacity and Dump Height
Loader Bucket Capacity and Dump Height specifications relate to the loader bucket’s capacity and the height at which it can dump materials.
Advantages:
With a Loader Bucket Capacity of 1m3 and a Dump Height of 2575mm, the Caterpillar 426C backhoe loader can handle a significant amount of material, increasing its efficiency in excavation tasks.
Disadvantages:
A high Loader Bucket Capacity may reduce the stability of the equipment, leading to tipping over. Also, a high Dump Height may increase the likelihood of materials falling out of the bucket during dumping, leading to safety concerns.
Engine Specifications
The engine specifications include details on the type, power, and displacement of the engine.
Advantages:
With a Cat 3054T engine, 59kW@2200rpm, and a 4-liter displacement, the Caterpillar 426C backhoe loader has sufficient power to handle various applications, including heavy excavation tasks.
Disadvantages:
A larger engine with higher power output may lead to higher fuel consumption and operating costs.
Pump Type and Flow
Pump Type and Flow refer to the hydraulic pump that powers the equipment.
Advantages:
With a VDAP pump type and a flow rate of 162 liters/minute, the Caterpillar 426C backhoe loader has efficient hydraulic power, providing the necessary force to handle difficult excavation tasks.
Disadvantages:
A higher flow rate may lead to increased fuel consumption and operating costs.
Transmission and Drive System
The Transmission and Drive System specifications relate to the gears, speed, and traction of the machinery.
Advantages:
With a P’shuttle transmission, 2WD/4WD, and speeds of up to 44km/h, the Caterpillar 426C backhoe loader can handle various terrain types, including rough terrain, and operate at high speeds in suitable environments.
Disadvantages:
A high speed may reduce the equipment’s stability, leading to a greater risk of tipping over. Also, a 2WD/4WD system may increase fuel consumption and operating costs.
Ride Control
Ride Control provides shock absorption and reduces bouncing during operation.
Advantages:
Although the Caterpillar 426C backhoe loader does not have a Ride Control feature, the equipment’s heavy-duty design provides sufficient shock absorption, reducing bouncing during excavation tasks.
Disadvantages:
A lack of Ride Control may cause operator fatigue and reduce efficiency during extended operation periods.
Travel and Width Dimensions
Travel and Width Dimensions refer to the length, height, and width of the equipment during transportation.
Advantages:
With a travel length of 7260mm, a travel height of 3770mm, and a width of 2262mm, the Caterpillar 426C backhoe loader can be transported easily, reducing transportation costs.
Disadvantages:
A larger travel height and width may require more space during transportation, increasing transportation costs.
Turn Circle Radius and Operating Weight
Turn Circle Radius and Operating Weight refer to the equipment’s maneuverability and weight.
Advantages:
With a Turn Circle Radius without brakes of 8200mm, the Caterpillar 426C backhoe loader can maneuver in tight spaces, improving its versatility in various applications. Additionally, with an Operating Weight of 6750kg, the equipment can handle heavy materials and maintain stability during operation.
Disadvantages:
A heavier operating weight may lead to increased fuel consumption and operating costs, while a larger turn circle radius may reduce the efficiency of the equipment in maneuvering in tight spaces.
Overall Assessment
The Caterpillar 426C,
