JCB says that the new 427 and 437 wheeled loaders will offer “significantly reduced running costs” resulting from improved fuel efficiency and engine technology.
Both new models are powered by a 6.7 litre Cummins QSB engine, which is Stage IIIB (Tier 4 Interim) compliant without using a diesel particulate filter or selective catalytic reduction.
Their launch follows the unveiling earlier this year of the new flagship JCB 457 wheeled loader (pictured below).
New features on the machines include:
- a variable geometry turbocharger delivering improved machine response at low rpm
- engine shutdown mode for enhanced fuel efficiency
- optional five-speed powershift for improved driving performance
- intelligent clutch cut-off system
- automatic differential lock on the front axle
- full colour LCD monitor
- optional climate control.
As well as the variable geometry turbocharger, the Cummins engine incorporates a high-pressure common rail fuel injection system, exhaust gas recirculation and a diesel oxidation catalyst.
The JCB 437 delivers 129kW (173hp) – equivalent to the outgoing 436 model but with significant fuel savings. The JCB 427 also offers reduced fuel consumption with power of 118kW (158hp), as well as a 9.4% increase in torque, taking it to 801Nm.
Both machines achieve high power outputs with low emissions without the need of any supplementary additives or a DPF. The machines also feature a low idle speed and an engine shutdown mode, which activates after a pre-determined period to save fuel.
A ZF four-speed automatic power shift transmission comes as standard with a new optional five-speed power shift box also available.
A lock-up torque converter on the five-speed transmission activates in gears 2-5, reducing losses from the transmission and increasing productivity. JCB says that operators will notice the difference on hill climbing, roading and load and carrying duties.
An intelligent clutch cut-off system also comes as standard, for both the 4-speed and 5-speed transmissions. The system dynamically adjusts the clutch cut-off point depending on transmission output torque and brake pressure. It effectively disengages the clutch to limit tractive effort, and also reduces brake wear within the new ZF axles.
When the operator presses the brake pedal, maximum power is provided to the load sensing hydraulic system, while reducing power to the driveline. This provides greater control at higher engine rpm and lower travel speeds, boosting productivity when loading.
The new ZF automatic differential lock axle option means that customers can now choose from:
- standard open differential
- limited slip differential, or
- an automatic differential lock on the front axle only.
The automatic option locks the differential when required, without the operator needing to activate the system, providing increased traction and less slippage. This reduces wheel spin and tyre wear, and also improves fuel consumption and productivity, JCB says.
The new axles also benefit from wheel speed braking, lengthened service intervals to 1,500 hours and increased service life in heavy duty applications with the option of sintered pads.
Other improvements include the ability to adjust the JCB Smooth Ride System so it can be activated at any speed, allowing operators to tailor it to individual site requirements.
The JCB 427 and 437 are both available with a choice of conventional multi-lever layout, a single joystick with separate auxiliary control lever and a joystick with proportional control auxiliary controls built in. A range of arm options are also available, HT, ZX, High Lift HT and Super High Lift HT (on the 437).
New styling with sloping engine canopy at the rear is designed to improve all-round visibility.
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