The CASE Construction Equipment Backhoe Loader has been setting industry standards for more than 60 years, and the latest launches are inheriting the mantle. Construction Plant News reports.
The new incarnation of the CASE Construction Equipment Europe Backhoe Loader is the continuation of a long and proud tradition that began as long ago as 1957. Significant milestones since then have included the development of the extended dipper in 1964, with the CASE Extandhoe. Fast forward to 1998 and ride control on a backhoe was another world first, whilst Power Shift transmission arrived at the turn of the millennium, along with an integrated quick hitch. Add to that the introduction of the industry’s first fully electric unit – the 580 EV – and the manufacturer can point to more than six decades of innovation in one of its flagship machine classes.
The focus has always been on delivering comfort, productivity and profitability for its customers, and the SV Series continues in that vein. The new models are the 580 SV, 590 SV and 695 SV all of which have been completely redesigned. The manufacturer promises that comfort and the operator experience have been dramatically improved, with reduced emissions from a Stage V powertrain without detriment to performance.
The machines are powered by a FPT F36 3.6 litre engine producing 96 or 110hp – delivering what is described as best in class power and torque density – with Stage V achieved through maintenance-free after-treatment. Indeed, the new Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system has been designed specifically for backhoe loader applications, and there’s 500 hours engine oil changing, with the convenience of one-sided engine serviceability. In operation, the cylinder layout assures good visibility along the boom and, with hydraulic side shift at the press of a button, the operator can shift left to right on the H frame with ease.
As well as that, CASE is introducing Eco mode as standard on all units, a system which automatically regulates engine speed and hydraulic pressure in operations that do not require sustained speed and power, and can achieve an impressive fuel saving of up to 10 per cent. Similarly, auto idle automatically lowers the engine speed, when the machine has been inactive for more than five seconds, whilst auto engine shut down switches off the engine when there has been no activity for more than ten minutes.
The available connected after-sales solutions are gathered together in the Case Service Solutions range. Case Site Watch, for example, is a complete site management tool that can geo-locate the machine, set up geo-fencing and provides reports on fuel consumption, idle time and machine hours. All of that data can then be interrogated to improve productivity and profitability.
Case Site Connect can provide dealers with alerts based on a machine’s parameters. Through it they can remotely access the machine and take corrective action faster. Case Protect is the manufacturer’s extended warranty programme and Case Care is the company’s planned maintenance programme – all of which adds up to no unexpected costs and maximum uptime.
Some of the biggest innovations can be found at the driver’s seat, with 10 per cent more space than on previous models. When rotating to backhoe position feet and knee clearance have been greatly improved, and operators will experience more leg room overall. The king-cab benefits from more storage space, and visibility has been enhanced, especially at the rear, with 360 degree vision across a job site.
The right-hand pillar and console has been completely remodelled so that the operator can easily access all controls. There’s also the option of a super deluxe air suspension seat, with fully adjustable height, backrest and armrest, whilst noise levels have been reduced by more than 3db compared to previous models.
