09 · Heavy Equipment

Backhoe Loader

Also called Backhoe · JCB 1CX · Digger with loader · Loader backhoe

A loader bucket at the front and a digging arm at the back, so one machine both digs and shifts material.

Diesel machine

Sizes & models we rent

JCB 1CX trackedBuckets: 9", 12", 18" · 42" forks available
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Overview

A backhoe loader carries a loader bucket on the front and a hinged digging arm on the back. One operator can dig a trench, then swing round and load the spoil without changing machines.

Ours is the JCB 1CX: tracked, compact, and small enough for tight sites and residential work where a full-size backhoe will not fit.

It suits jobs that mix digging with moving material — footings, drainage, service trenches, clearing and backfilling.

If the job is only digging, an excavator is faster. If it is only loading and carrying, a skid steer is easier to manoeuvre.

Catalogue specifications

  • Operating weight (kg) with extended dipper: 4342
  • Operating weight (lbs): 9573
  • Engine
  • Engine make: Perkins 404D-22
  • Dimensions
  • Transport length (ft/in): 11' 9"
  • Transport height (ft/in): 7' 10"
  • Transport width (ft/in): 5' 11"
  • GP SHOVEL
  • Shovel : 5' 11" wide
  • Shovel : .37 cubic meters
  • Tracks: 12.8" (320mm) wide
  • LOADER DIMENSIONS
  • Dig Depth - Std 8.37ft
  • Dump height 2.21m
  • Load over height 2.65m
  • Loader hinge pin height 2.86m
  • Reach at ground (toe plate horizontal) 1.41m
  • Maximum reach at full height 0.74m
  • Reach at full height fully dumped 0.40m
  • Dig depth ((toe plate horizontal) clearance 0.05m
  • Roll back at ground 42 degrees

Best uses

  • Footings and service trenches
  • Drainage work
  • Digging and backfilling in one visit
  • Tight residential sites

Not suited for

  • Deep excavation — a midi excavator digs deeper and faster
  • Work needing zero tail swing against a wall

Troubleshooting

The digging arm is slow or will not move

Checks to try, in order

  1. Check the hydraulic oil level with the machine level and the arm down.
  2. Make sure the stabilisers are down — some machines lock the arm out until they are.
  3. Let the machine warm up. Cold hydraulic oil is slow for the first few minutes.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?
The loader arms drift down when parked

Checks to try, in order

  1. Lower the loader to the ground whenever the machine is parked — never leave it raised.
  2. Drifting cylinders need a workshop seal check.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?
Nothing happens when the key is turnedShared · Diesel machine

Likely causes

  • Isolator off
  • Seat / seat-belt / lap-bar interlock
  • Controls not in neutral
  • Flat battery

Checks to try, in order

  1. Check the battery isolator / master switch is ON.
  2. Sit in the seat, fasten the seat belt and lower the safety bar — interlocks prevent starting otherwise.
  3. Put the controls in neutral and the hydraulic lockout lever in the locked position.
  4. Check the battery terminals are tight and free of corrosion.

If the battery is flat, don't jump-start it unless you've been trained to — call the workshop.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?
Cranks but won't startShared · Diesel machine

Likely causes

  • Out of fuel / air in fuel
  • Glow plugs not preheated
  • E-stop engaged

Checks to try, in order

  1. Check the fuel gauge. Diesel engines that run dry often need the fuel system bled before they'll start.
  2. Turn the key to the preheat position and wait for the glow-plug light to go out before cranking.
  3. Check the emergency stop button isn't pressed in.
  4. Crank for no more than 10–15 seconds at a time, then let the starter rest.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?
Arms, boom or tracks won't move or are slowShared · Diesel machine

Likely causes

  • Lockout lever engaged
  • Cold oil
  • Low hydraulic oil
  • Leak

Checks to try, in order

  1. Raise the hydraulic lockout / safety lever or disengage the control lock.
  2. Let the machine warm up for a few minutes before working it hard.
  3. Check the hydraulic oil sight glass with the machine level and attachments lowered.
  4. Look for hydraulic oil leaks under the machine and at hose ends.

Never touch a pinhole hydraulic leak — high-pressure oil can inject through skin. Stop and report it.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?
Warning light, alarm or overheatingShared · Diesel machine

Checks to try, in order

  1. Stop work, lower attachments to the ground and let the engine idle — don't shut a hot engine off abruptly unless told to by the alarm.
  2. Check whether the radiator / cooler screen is blocked with dust, grass or debris.
  3. Only check coolant once the engine is cold. Never open a hot radiator cap.

Red warning lights mean stop. Note the code or symbol and call the workshop before continuing.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?

Safety

  • Set the stabilisers and lower the loader before anyone approaches the machine.
  • Check for buried services before any dig. Call before you dig.
  • Never let anyone stand in the swing path of the rear arm.

For diesel machine

  • Only trained, authorised operators should drive or operate this machine.
  • Walk around the machine before starting: leaks, damage, tyres or tracks, and people nearby.
  • Wear the seat belt, use three points of contact getting on and off, and use a spotter in tight areas.
  • Check for overhead power lines and underground services before digging or lifting.

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