JCB 4CX, 1997 Technical Specifications

Introduction

The JCB 4CX, a backhoe loader model manufactured by J.C. Bamford Excavators Limited (JCB), is a well-known machine in the construction industry. It is designed to handle various construction tasks, including digging, excavation, loading, and transportation. In this article, we will analyze the advantages and disadvantages of the technical specifications provided in the JCB 4CX, 1997 version.

Advantages and Disadvantages

SideShift or CenterMount

The JCB 4CX is equipped with a SideShift or CenterMount system, which offers the operator flexibility when positioning the backhoe. This system allows the backhoe to quickly move from one side to another, enhancing the operator’s productivity. One of the drawbacks of the SideShift or CenterMount system is that it requires additional maintenance compared to other systems, such as the fixed backhoe, due to its moving parts.

SAE dig depth (mm)

The SAE dig depth of the JCB 4CX is 4190 millimeters, which is considered to be one of the best in the market. This depth allows the operator to dig deeper and more effectively, making the machine ideal for digging tasks. However, it may not be suitable for tasks that require shallow digging, as it may lead to the machine operating at its maximum capacity, resulting in lower efficiency and increased fuel consumption.

Reach @ ground level (mm)

The reach at ground level of the JCB 4CX is 5380 millimeters, which is considered above average in backhoe loaders. This reach allows the operator to perform tasks that require a longer reach, making it suitable for excavation tasks. However, it may not be suitable for tasks that require a shorter reach, as the backhoe may not be able to position itself in the correct position, leading to inefficient task completion.

Loading height (mm)

The loading height of the JCB 4CX is 4130 millimeters, which offers an advantage in loading materials that require a greater vertical reach. However, this may lead to difficulties in loading items in low clearance areas. The loading height may also lead to increased fuel consumption, as the machine will need to operate at its maximum capacity.

Bucket width, min-max (mm)

The JCB 4CX has a bucket width range of 230-1100 millimeters, which allows the machine to handle various materials and tasks of different sizes. The bucket width range is an advantage in achieving optimal efficiency for specific tasks. However, it may lead to increased wear and tear on the bucket, as the bucket will need to adapt to different tasks, leading to higher maintenance costs.

Bucket breakout (kgf)

The bucket breakout of the JCB 4CX is 5677 kgf, while the dipper breakout is 2998 kgf. This offers the operator the ability to break through hard surfaces and materials, making it an advantage in excavation tasks. However, it may be a disadvantage when dealing with more delicate materials, requiring the operator to be careful when undertaking these tasks.

Slew System

The JCB 4CX is equipped with a Rack&Pinion Slew System, which provides accurate control of the backhoe’s movement, making it ideal for precision tasks. This system has a high level of reliability, reducing the need for maintenance and repair works. However, it may be less suitable when dealing with larger loads, as there is a limitation to the backhoe’s ability to move.

Loader Bucket Capacity (m3)

The loader bucket capacity of the JCB 4CX is 1 cubic meter, which is considered to be average. This capacity allows the machine to handle medium-to-large loads, making it suitable for various loading tasks. However, it may not be the most efficient in tasks that require handling smaller loads, as the bucket may need to be repositioned or replaced with a smaller one.

Dump height (mm)

The dump height of the JCB 4CX is 2650 millimeters, allowing the operator to dump loads at a considerable height. This height is ideal for loading or unloading materials onto trucks or containers. However, it may not be the most efficient in tasks that require dumping loads at a lower height, as the machine may need to operate at its maximum capacity and result in decreased efficiency and increased fuel consumption.

Engine Make & Model

The JCB 4CX is powered by a Perkins 1004.4HRT engine, which is well-known in the industry for its durability and reliability. The engine’s power output of 68 kW at 2200 rpm and a displacement of 4 liters is considered average in backhoe loaders. However, the engine’s placement may lead to difficulties in performing maintenance and repair works, increasing costs and downtime.

Pump type, flow, and relief valve pressure (bar)

The JCB 4CX is equipped with two Gear pumps, providing a total flow of 138 liters per minute. This flow rate is considered average in backhoe loaders. The relief valve pressure of 227 bars is considered high, which offers an advantage in breakout and lifting tasks. However, it may lead to increased wear on the hydraulic components, requiring more frequent maintenance and repair works.

Transmission type and drive

The full PS transmission of the JCB 4CX provides a smooth acceleration for the machine, reducing the wear and tear of its components. The machine’s drive system can be either two-wheel drive (2WD) or four-wheel drive (4WD), depending on the requirements of the task. The four-wheel drive system offers an advantage in off-road conditions, while the two-wheel drive system is more fuel-efficient. However, the choice of drive system may affect the machine’s overall performance, depending on the task’s requirements.

Speeds, FR and maximum speed (km/h)

The JCB 4CX has a total of 44 forward and reverse speeds, allowing the operator to set the machine’s speed to the specific task requirements. The maximum speed of 35 km/h is considered average in backhoe loaders. This speed is useful in tasks that require transportation of the machine between different work sites. However, it may not be the most efficient when performing tasks that require lower speeds, leading to increased fuel consumption.

Ride control

The JCB 4CX does not come with a standard Ride control system, which reduces the machine’s vibration during operation. However, this feature can be added as an optional extra, enhancing the operator’s comfort during extended periods of use. The ride control feature is an advantage in improving machine efficiency by reducing the material losses due to vibrations, leading to lower operating costs.

Travel length, height, width, and turning circle radius

The travel length of the JCB 4CX is 6070 millimeters, while the travel height is 3490 millimeters. These dimensions allow the machine to maneuver through tight spaces, making it suitable for construction projects with limited space. The width of 2350 millimeters is an advantage in providing stability to the machine during operation. The machine’s turning circle radius of 9090 millimeters without brakes allows the operator to position the machine accurately, reducing the time taken for task completion. However, the machine’s size may limit its usefulness in tasks that require operating in confined spaces.

Operating Weight