10 Best Backhoe Loaders – 2022 Ranking

Backhoe loaders (hereinafter referred to as “EP”) belong to that type of hybrid special equipment, whose design, appearance and scope of application are always determined by specific tasks. In most cases, this technique is a universal solution for working in limited space: urban areas, courtyards with spontaneous parking, cramped garden and village areas. Often, the only way to move a machine across such areas (especially in spring thaw conditions) is to push the machine off the ground with a bucket and loader (the so-called “crab move”).

However, due to their relatively light weight, the ability to replace body kits and additional equipment, low price (compared to equipment with a narrow specialization), wide range of models, and inexpensive maintenance, backhoe loaders have become very popular among private owners.

MMM – versatility, mobility and maneuverability

The three specified parameters best describe all the advantages of this product.
But the area of ​​operation best determines the advantages and disadvantages. If a person plans to carry out repair and construction work in the city, then it is not recommended to use special-purpose equipment, because there will be no place for it to turn around, especially in small yards. In addition, there is a possibility of damage to the asphalt due to the tracks. A small excavator can solve this problem in a few minutes. Digging a trench and working as a pipelayer - all this can be done by one device, and a person will not have to pay a lot of money to purchase auxiliary equipment. The device can also be used as a hydraulic hammer, which will allow you to hollow out a small area near the pedestrian path without hitting it, which is very important. The excavator is also used to clean the area when it is covered with snow. It is light and mobile, which allows you to quickly clean the area from contamination, doing it efficiently and in the shortest possible time. Another positive point is that the equipment can easily travel tens of kilometers without using auxiliary equipment, and after that function normally, and also not lose the warranty period.

When used in urban environments or in the country, this product ranks first in terms of cost of work, which is why the demand for it is constantly growing. The same cannot be said about highly specialized equipment, which has a high price tag per hour of work. In addition, the equipment does not require expensive maintenance at a technical station, and also does not consume a lot of fuel.

Of course, if it is necessary to carry out a gigantic amount of work, then this equipment will be useless, but no one hires such equipment for such purposes. More often it is preferred when it is necessary to carry out a small operation in a place that is difficult to access for complex equipment. In other cases, most customers will prefer the latter. However, this in no way makes backhoe loaders unnecessary. On the contrary, it is an excellent auxiliary equipment that can do a lot.

Features of backhoe loaders:

A backhoe loader can replace an excavator, as it is capable of operating in the appropriate mode: with the help of a shovel (bucket) it can dig soil, move it and unload it. In this case, the boom can be fixed to the body or attached using a special carriage, which allows it to move to the sides.

It can also act as a loader: using a front bucket, when moving forward, fill the bucket with a certain material, lift it, transport and unload it.

In addition to the main types of work, a backhoe loader can perform other types of work using various additional equipment.

A tool for real professionals

Due to the wide versatility of the EP product, it is constantly in demand for various construction works. Especially when performing local tasks. Before 2014, most people opened a private business using an electronic signature. So more than 50% rented it out to some construction companies. But recently this balance has been disrupted, and most enterprises prefer to own their own equipment. Despite this, a large percentage of private owners have maintained their positions and continue to rent out this tool to organizations providing construction and repair work.

Oddly enough, due to the popularity of this device, the profession of backhoe loader operator began to be in great demand.

What to look for when choosing a new forklift?

Despite the fact that it is always easier to buy new equipment, when choosing an electronic device there are a number of nuances that will not allow you to do this instantly. First, a person needs to take a closer look at the company, learn more about the brand, etc. Professionals often recommend following these steps:

• Find a good and trusted distributor located in a specific region. It is important to remember that the further away the supplier's office is located, the more difficult it will be to transport spare parts from the warehouse. This will result in increased downtime, which will negatively impact productivity. In cases where the official dealer is located in another region or does not have a basic spare parts base, it is not advisable to buy equipment from this organization. Of course, a person can purchase, but it is important to remember that transportation costs will be borne by the client, not the company.
• The second step is to collect information regarding the prices of spare parts and consumables that backhoe loaders always need. It is also important to decide where exactly a person will buy additional parts. Here it is necessary to remember the reliability of the seller and his competence, that is, it is desirable that he has the appropriate documentation that confirms the quality of the product. This is worth understanding, since counterfeit goods are often found on the market.
• Next, it is important for a person to decide on the model that he is going to constantly use. Most companies offer various versions of electronic signatures. Each of the presented backhoe loaders may have minor differences or be the complete opposite of the product.
• In addition, it is important to remember that there are several modifications for some models; they may differ in both wheel width and control method. It is important to approach this issue with caution. Because there is a possibility that a person may make a mistake when choosing and buy the wrong equipment.

The most popular criteria for choosing a new electronic signature are described above. Compliance with these aspects will allow you to choose a more reliable and high-quality option.

Rules for purchasing on the secondary market

Checking the seller and equipment documentation:

• If the seller is a legal entity or individual entrepreneur, then you should pay attention to the period of his work in this market segment, check the available certificates and permits, get acquainted with his supplier partners (the length of the terms of joint work);
• Check the passport of the self-propelled vehicle (PSM) - it must be provided by the seller in the original. Proposals should be especially wary when the proposed technology is declared to be almost new (with little development), but the PSM is only available in the form of a copy (even if officially certified);
• The numbers of components and assemblies indicated in the PSM must completely coincide with those installed on the equipment itself;
• It is necessary to include in the purchase and sale agreement a clause regarding compensation for losses if the backhoe loader is subject to an encumbrance (for example, a lien).

Checking technical condition:

• On average, the experience of a forklift capable of further reliable operation should not exceed 1,500 hours per year. Thus, models older than 2010 should have approximately 15,000 - 20,000 operating hours. If the meter shows less data, then this will be a reason to doubt the reliability of the proposed machine;
• Typically, the engine should retain traces of the factory paint, as well as the bolt heads and high-pressure fuel pump. If the paint is old or missing altogether, this may indicate a major repair of the units. The engine itself should start without problems and run “idling” without smoke or extraneous noise;
• The hydraulics of the backhoe loader should also not cause any complaints and operate without any extraneous noise, sudden jerks, or release of lubricating fluid. This applies to both operating modes under load and without it. It would also be a good idea to measure the pressure in the hydraulic system, for which you should use a hydraulic tester;
• Lastly, it is necessary to check the machine body itself - it should not contain traces of extreme corrosion, large cracks or other defects that could lead to operational problems.

Buying secondhand

The first thing you should do when purchasing such equipment second-hand is to ask yourself again whether it is really necessary. Because no one can give good guarantees that the electronic device will last at least a year and be able to recoup its cost. It is important to make such a decision only based on your goals:

• If a person understands that his equipment will not be heavily loaded and will rarely be used, then buying a used one is a suitable option. The only caveat is the long payback period.
• But when a person buys such equipment only because of a desire to save money, then this is a really good moment to think about it.

Whatever the decision, the average client also needs to know about the correct purchase of a backhoe loader. Such advice will never be superfluous, and will also help you coordinate in choosing the best model that the secondary market can offer.

TOP 10 best backhoe loaders

MTZ 92-P

This rating begins with a representative of the Belarusian MTZ plant. If the consumer is interested in an affordable price and fairly high quality, then among budget backhoe loaders, the 92P model deserves special attention.

In general, the MTZ 92P is a tractor that can be equipped with various equipment. Therefore, one of the configurations is a backhoe loader.

The equipment is in high demand on the Russian market. The designers have thought out the operator's cabin well. There is heating and good ventilation in case of heat. It is also worth noting the reinforced frame and intuitive control panel. The machine is equipped with a hydraulic booster, which greatly simplifies the long work process.

Among the main characteristics are the following:

• the engine has a power of 62 kW;
• load capacity is 4 tons;
• the bucket holds 0.22 m3;
• the capacity of the loading tool here is 0.75/1 m3;
• digs to a depth of 4.35 meters.

Consumers note the following advantages:

• impressive power reserve;
• good endurance;
• reliability of all units;
• ease of maintenance.

But on a bad road you will feel the suspension being too stiff. Plus, there is no electric torch heating for the engine.

The machine is perfect for working in difficult climate conditions. Used in agriculture and small construction sites.

Terex TLB825

When talking about which backhoe loader they position as the best and most reliable, a number of buyers will name this model.

This equipment is from the American brand Terex, but its main production facilities are based in China. Since 2012, cars have been assembled in Tver through the efforts of the RM Terex plant.

Attachments for backhoe loaders (some types):

• pallet forks capable of picking up large cargo on pallets, transporting it to various distances across warehouses and unloading it;
• hydraulic hammer , which allows you to carry out work on the destruction and grinding of various bulk materials, incl. construction, as well as crushing hard rocks;
• The grab , due to its design, can be used to perform universal work, including: capturing and transporting logs, scrap, stones, etc. materials. It can also be used to grab soil from a certain depth (limited by the capabilities of the equipment);
• snow removal straight or V-shaped blade , designed to perform a highly specialized task - removing snow from various territories. They are usually equipped with a mechanism that protects them from damage when hitting road obstacles;
• road brush , the main task of which is to clean the road surface for various purposes from dust and various debris;
• trencher , with which you can lay trenches for various purposes of a certain width, relative to the capabilities of the equipment. Pipes, cables, etc. can be laid in the created trenches.

Technical characteristics significant for selection

Load capacity

This parameter will play a significant role if the machine is purchased for work in the construction industry. And in this case, it is necessary to consider not only the maximum possible load that the equipment can withstand, but also the time and duration at which it can be used in intensive mode. At the same time, the question will arise about the possible level of wear and tear during such work.

In principle, by area of ​​application, excavators can be divided as follows:

• An excavator working in the field of road construction will receive the least load - a light-duty machine, which itself will weigh no more than two tons, is suitable for such work;
• Work on moving large volumes of soil on open construction sites will require the use of medium-lifting equipment (up to 4 tons);
• Equipment up to 10 tons boasts the greatest functionality and areas of application. This is due to the fact that such models have the ability to use various interchangeable tools for work (from a bucket to a bayonet loader and hydraulic hammers).

Power units

Almost all models of backhoe loaders use powerful engines that are resistant to industrial wear. Oddly enough, this even applies to Chinese manufacturers, who install exclusively American-made motors in their equipment (due to the lack of their own technologies).

Backhoe Loader Buckets

The choice of bucket is also of considerable importance for the future use of special equipment. Among other things, Russian consumers fell in love with backhoe loaders for their quick ability to change implements. This process is not something supernatural, and you can change the bucket with the efforts of one, maximum two people. The main thing is that the material of the bucket is durable and does not break during immediate replacement after prolonged overload. Although, the vast majority of models are now made of alloy steel, which generally eliminates such risks. In addition, there are models of buckets that can generally be disassembled into individual parts, for example, these include variations with removable teeth. Changing the bucket teeth may be necessary when the material being processed changes dramatically: for example, after working with sand, you need to immediately switch to hard soil or rocks in general.

Load lifting height

Another important parameter is that if the loader is used for road construction work, then the height may not exceed the side of the truck. For other general construction work, it is better to choose a model with an increased level of unloading.

Customer support

As a rule, most Russian dealers have their own service centers in all major Russian cities, which makes finding spare parts extremely simple. Recently, large suppliers have also been organizing 24-hour telephone support, where you can get advice on minor equipment repairs without involving specialists. Repair kits are also supplied with new machines.

Backhoe loader: history, classification, characteristics

A backhoe loader (EB) is a universal combined machine equipped with excavator and bucket loading equipment. The EP can perform excavation (digging, leveling) and loading and unloading operations, clean areas from snow, debris, various contaminants, etc. Backhoe loaders are used in construction, housing and communal services, the mining industry and other areas where compact, maneuverable and productive machines are needed.

History of Backhoe Loaders

For the first time, the idea of ​​​​installing two working bodies on one machine was expressed by the founder of the British company JCB, Joseph Cyril Bamford. The first electric vehicles, called JCB Mk. I, rolled off the production line in 1954. This type of equipment quickly gained popularity, many European and American companies started producing EPs, and similar machines were produced in our country. Today, electric drives are one of the most common types of equipment in public utilities and construction.

General structure of a backhoe loader

In general, the EP consists of three components:

• Base (chassis);
• Mounted excavator – mounted at the rear of the base;
• Bucket front loader – mounted in front of the base.

Serial tractors, specially designed chassis or mini loaders can be used as a base. They can have a rigid or articulated frame, and are necessarily equipped with hydraulic equipment and a work equipment control system (lever or joystick).

Excavator equipment is single-bucket with the ability to replace the working element (grab, hammer, etc.), on a breakable boom with a manipulator, and has supports (outriggers). Loading equipment is single-bucket; a standard bucket, a bucket with teeth, a jaw bucket, a blade, a fork, a grab, a hook, and more can be installed as a working element. The equipment drive is hydraulic.

Classification of backhoe loaders

EDs are divided into two groups based on chassis type:

• Wheeled;
• Tracked.

They are also divided into classes according to load capacity:

• Lightweight – up to 2 tons;
• Medium – from 2 to 4 tons;
• Heavy – from 4 to 10 tons;
• Heavy duty – over 10 tons.

Light and medium-sized ECs are most widespread in various industries, heavy ones are used in construction and on large sites, heavy-duty ones are used in construction and the mining industry.

Characteristics of backhoe loaders

The main characteristics of the EP include:

• Engine power is usually 70 - 100 hp. With.;
• Operating weight – no more than 12 tons;
• The volume of the excavator bucket is no more than 0.5 cubic meters. m;
• Loading bucket volume – up to 1.0 – 1.3 cubic meters. m;
• Load capacity – indicated above;
• Loading height – no more than 4 – 5 m;
• Digging depth is usually no more than 2 - 3 m.

The smallest and largest electric drives may have different characteristics, but the parameters of most machines lie within the specified limits.

Major manufacturers of backhoe loaders

In Russia, backhoe loaders are produced (American Terex), Lipetsk Tractor, Kovrov Electromechanical Plant (ANT-2321 series based on John Deere tractors) and some others. Several EP models are produced by Belarusian, BZGT and others. Of the foreign brands, the most widespread are JCB (3CX, 4CX, 5CX series), Caterpillar (F and F2 series), Terex, Case, Hidromek, Komatsu, Volvo, Bell, Fiori and others, as well as Chinese backhoe loaders XCMG, SDLG and other.

Interesting facts about backhoe loaders

The best-selling electric vehicle in the world is the JCB 3CX. This machine was developed in the 1980s, but due to its design features and constant modifications, it remains one of the most popular. Since 1980, over 150 thousand JCB 3CX units of all generations and modifications have been produced.

Rating of heavy loaders

The market for specialized equipment is expanding every year. Today the most popular models are:

• MTZ 92P;
• Terex TLB 825;
• Case 570 ST;
• New Holland B80B;
• Caterpillar 428F.

MTZ 92P

Multifunctional equipment from the Minsk Tractor Plant. Used in the agricultural, construction and municipal sectors. It is not by chance that it occupies fifth place in the ranking of backhoe loaders. The loader has excellent power reserves and endurance. MTZ 92P is capable of lifting loads with a total weight of 3.1 tons, while the machine itself weighs 3.9 tons.

Low cost and inexpensive maintenance make this model very popular among domestic users. The equipment does not require fuel; it will not be difficult to buy spare parts for it. In Russian conditions, the Minsk loader shows excellent performance. It is not picky about external temperatures and is not afraid of swampy areas.

In terms of comfort for the driver, it is not inferior to foreign-made equipment. The cabin is equipped with a comfortable seat, a heating system and an ergonomic dashboard.

Technical specifications:

• engine – diesel;
• engine power – 65 hp
• fuel consumption – 226 g/kW h;
• soil pressure – 140 kPa;
• shaft rotation speed – 1800 rpm;
• forward speed – 2.15 – 15.5 km/h;
• reverse speed – 2.02 – 14.46 km/h.

Terex TLB 825

This model is valued for its reliability, compact size and ease of operation. The machine can brake on one side, which, in limited space, reduces the turning radius by 1 m. Operators note a balanced suspension as an advantage. Paired with high-profile tires, this provides good stability on slopes.

A guarantee of a long service life of the working boom is provided by the drive unit. Balancing the bucket allows you to move bulk loads without losing their weight. Despite the fact that the equipment is equipped with a floating boom position function, users in their reviews note the rather rigid hydraulics of this model, which does not allow working with filigree precision. Unlike its more expensive rivals, this excavator cannot boast of excellent metal quality on the working mechanisms, but given the domestic assembly and availability of spare parts, this is not a serious drawback of the machine.

Specifications:

• engine – diesel;
• power – 92 hp;
• consumption – 14.7 l/m/h;
• load capacity – 3465 kg;
• machine weight – 8030 kg;
• speed – 5.4 – 40 km/h.

Imported backhoe loaders

• JCB (48.75%)
• CASE (17.14%)
• New Holland (10.0%)
• Other (24.11%)

JCB (JC Bamford Excavators Ltd)

British engineering company produces 300 types of equipment. But we are only interested in JCB backhoe loaders, so let’s turn to consumer reviews.

Popular models

The popularity of these backhoe loaders is due to their overall dimensions and weight. A little less or more is too specific for rent.

Models differ in wheels, which is why all their parameters differ. 3CX - multi-wheel, 4CX - equal-wheel. And, as can be seen from the table, the second one definitely wins. It is also more stable, rolls on soft ground without problems, and if one of the wheels is damaged, it can continue to work without a patch. However, it is more expensive and fuel consumption is higher.

CASE

An American company that has been developing construction and specialized equipment for 175 years, and 60 years ago released the first CASE 320 backhoe loader from the assembly line. However, we will look at more modern representatives.

Popular models

In short, the Case is simply a cheaper analogue of the JCB: the 580T is the same 3CX, and the 695ST is the 4CX. Nevertheless, it works great, there are no problems with repairs or replacement of parts.

New Holland

In cases where there is not enough money for the optimal CASE, they choose New Holland - an even cheaper imported option. Both brands belong to the same manufacturer Fiat, but their components are different. And in general, NH looks more budget-friendly.

Popular models

Review of foreign-made backhoe loaders

A backhoe loader is a universal machine that is found in the fleets of companies from different business sectors. Let's look at a selection of backhoe loaders from foreign manufacturers available on the Russian market. The article will focus on machines with equal-sized wheels, except John Deere 325SL and power from 97 to 118 hp. With. All models are 2022 and newer.

JCB 5CX ECO

The most powerful backhoe loader in the JCB range. It is worth paying attention to the technologies implemented in this machine.

SmoothRide reduces bucket oscillation for improved material retention and operator comfort.

The Autoshift transmission features automatic 4th to 6th gear shifting and a kickdown mode. 6-speed gearbox for smooth gear shifting and fuel economy.

The Livelink system for remote monitoring provides detailed data on machine operation and notifies of service violations. This information will reduce maintenance costs and prevent incorrect operation.

The machine is equipped with a 4.4 liter JCB DIESELMAX engine with a power of 118 hp. With.

Now about the characteristics of the JCB 5CX as a loader:

• Bucket hinge axis height 3.46 m
• Breakout force on the bucket 6590 kgf
• Rated operating load 4378 kg

And like an excavator:

• Digging depth 6.51 m
• Breakout force on the bucket 6230 kgf

CASE 695ST

Case has completely redesigned the T Series of backhoe loaders. Among the changes, the elaboration of the operator's cabin stands out. The consoles and control levers have become more ergonomic, and the visibility is better, compared to the previous series.

The excavator boom was also modified. The special CASE DNA design features overlapping cylinders and an external telescopic handle.

• Engine model 445TA\EGH
• Manufacturer Fiat Powertrain Technologies
• Power 110 l. With.

Characteristics of loading equipment:

• Bucket hinge axis height 3.49 m
• Bucket breakout force 6832 kgf
• Load capacity at height 3572 kg

Characteristics of CASE DNA excavator equipment:

• Digging depth 5965 m
• Working height 7.06 m
• Bucket breakout force 5965 kgf

New Holland B115B

New Holland backhoe loaders appeared in Russia in the early 1990s and are popular. New Holland B115B made in Italy with a CNH 445TA/EGH engine with a volume of 4.5 liters and a power of 112 hp. With.

Loader characteristics:

• Bucket hinge axis height 3.49 m
• Load capacity at height 3550 kg
• Breakout force on the bucket 7545 kgf

Characteristics of excavator equipment with extended telescopic handle:

• Digging depth 6.01 m
• Working height 6.42 m
• Breakout force on the bucket 6526 kgf

Komatsu WB97S-5E0

The WB97S-5E0 is the latest generation of Komatsu backhoe loaders. When creating this model, the developers took into account customer requests. The adjustable shock-absorbing seat makes the operator's work more comfortable, and this is also facilitated by convenient control joysticks and all-round visibility.

The Komtrax system accurately tracks working hours and machine location. If operating standards are violated, the machine sends notifications. Komtrax will reduce costs and extend the life of the machine.

• Engine Komatsu SAA4D104E-1
• Power 101 l. With.

Characteristics of loading equipment:

• Load capacity at height 3900 kg
• Bucket hinge axis height 3.53 m
• Breakout force 6500 kgf

Characteristics of the telescopic backhoe:

• Digging depth 6.46 m
• Height at excavation 6.67 m
• Bucket breakout force 6100 kgf

CAT 444

At the beginning of 2022, Caterpillar released an updated line of backhoe loaders.

The CAT 444 comes standard with a 101 hp CAT 3054C engine. and automatic transmission. Also, the basic equipment of any CAT backhoe loader includes an axial piston hydraulic pump and an electronic rear axle differential lock.

Controlling the backhoe using a joystick will increase the comfort and accuracy of work.

Optionally, the following functions are available on the machine:

• Torque converter locking - to save fuel during hauls;
• Ride Control smooth ride system – for comfortable movement over rough terrain;
• Dual flow hydraulic lines to accommodate a variety of attachments;
• Hydraulic carriage shift system – for convenient use of the backhoe;
• Quick couplers, both front and rear;

Characteristics of the front bucket:

• Load capacity at height 4046 kg
• Bucket hinge axis height 3.62 m
• Lifting force 5397 kgf

Characteristics of a backhoe with an extended telescopic handle 4.9 m:

• Digging depth 6.22 m
• Working height 5.19 m
• Bucket digging force 6341 kgf

LiuGong CLG 777A-S

Another backhoe loader on the Russian market is LiuGong CLG 777A-S. The machine is equipped with a Perkins 1104-44T engine that meets Tier III requirements and produces 101 hp. With.

Loader characteristics:

• Load capacity at maximum height 3385 kg
• Bucket breakout force 6322 kgf

Excavator characteristics:

• Digging depth with extended telescopic handle 5.4 m

John Deere 325SL

L-Series backhoe loaders were redesigned by John Deere in 2022.

The 325SL was designed with customer input in mind and a focus on improving productivity and operator comfort. This is reflected in the redesigned joystick stands, which provide more legroom for the operator and additional room to swivel the seat.

The machine is equipped with a 4.5 liter John Deere PowerTech engine. and a power of 98 hp.

Characteristics of loading equipment:

• Load capacity 2994 kg
• Bucket hinge axis height 3.45 m
• Breakout force 4476 kgf

Characteristics of the excavator mechanism:

• Digging depth with telescope extended 5.31 m
• Height in unloading position into dump truck 4.39 m
• Bucket breakout force 5812 kgf

Comparison table

For clarity, it is worth looking at the comparison table for some parameters. Please note that the characteristics of excavator equipment are indicated for an extended telescopic boom, which is optional on some models. In addition, characteristics may vary depending on the selected attachment.

Instead of an epilogue

It is better to purchase new backhoe loaders from trusted dealers, and used equipment from sellers with excellent recommendations on the secondary market. At the same time, it is better to use online platforms for purchasing in the case when you plan to purchase a batch of forklifts and in this case it is better to contact the manufacturer directly. If you purchase a used car, it is better to show it before registration to independent experts at a service station, where they can draw up a defect report (which indicates even the slightest scratch on the glass), which will reduce the cost of the backhoe loader. At the same time, it is worth noting that most online sites do not immediately offer the real price for the electronic device needed by the buyer, but will first offer to fill out an application for the necessary equipment for the machine.