Cat upgrades F Series backhoe loaders

The new Cat 434F is solely mechanically controlled. The 444F, equipped with pilot joystick controls, can be fitted with either a 4.27m (14 feet) or a 4.87m (16 feet) backhoe.

The Cat 4.4 engine meets EU Stage IIIA emission standards; an EU Stage IIIB solution will be phased in during the second half of 2013.

A new lock-up torque converter is available as an option on all Autoshift models, reducing  fuel consumption and increasing average road speed to boost productivity, Caterpillar says. The full Autoshift transmission is now fitted on the 434F. The Cat 444F is equipped with a stiffer torque converter, demonstrating more power in hard bank and faster acceleration when roading.

Boosted brakes are now standard on all F Series models, enhancing braking performance and reducing pedal effort for the operator. An electronic torque limiter on the 444F improves controllability at lower engine speeds, further increasing productivity and operator comfort.

Three different steering modes, two-wheel steer, circle steer and crab steer, can be selected on the fly to allow the operator to control the machine with the most efficient steering mode.

Both the Cat 434F and 444F machines are fitted with auto-align steering for a quick and easy switch of steering modes that allows the operator to continue his work without manually realigning the steering.

New loader arm design increases maximum hinge-pin and dump height with lift capacity at maximum height increased by as much as 36%, the manufacturer says.

 

*Meets EU Stage II Emission Standards (not available in Europe)

**Meets EU Stage III Emission Standards

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