News Releases

Case's Concept Tracked Backhoe Makes its Debut at NCE

CASE’S CONCEPT TRACKED BACKHOE STIRS INTEREST

(November 2005) – Case Construction proudly exhibited its revolutionary tracked backhoe – the first of its kind in the world – at the National Construction Exhibition in Sydney in November.

Case engineer, Larry Johnson, who was part of the team that developed the tracked backhoe, said it was designed to add versatility to the loader backhoe line.

“During ConExpo – the USA exhibition at which the unit made its first appearance – contractors told us the unit looked like it would provide significant advantages in all types of applications, particularly where low ground pressure was required. They also commented it would offer increased stability for hillside applications and be ideal where it was important to limit turf damage. The tracked machine also improves digging cycle times due to its ability to do most backhoe digging without the stabilisers down.”

The tracks result in less compaction and improved flotation and traction, which in turn mean less site damage, improved maneuvreability, and an increased working season because it’s easier to work in wet conditions.

“These are major improvements over traditional backhoes, and many of the customers who looked at the prototype at Conexpo thought the innovations would make it worth their while to invest in a tracked unit.”

The tracked backhoe concept has been considered several times over the years, but only moved to the stage of a physical prototype just prior to the Conexpo show. The concept unit was fabricated over approximately six months. The project is now being evaluated in light of the positive feedback from Conexpo, with a production date yet to be set.

Key features:
• Based on the 580SM platform.
• Track design based on proven Case IH Quadtrac AG tractor design.
• Tracks will add about 900kg to wheeled unit weight.
• Weight of track assemblies combined with low centre of gravity and track on the ground creates a very stable base for digging with the backhoe (light/ normal digging can be
done without stabilisers down).
• Quadtrac design offers superior manoeuvrability versus dual track units (front tracks steer at 55 degrees).
• Front and rear tracks have limited oscillation and will also have suspension incorporated.
• Maintains about 40km/h ground speed.
• Machine will be a purpose-built, dedicated track unit.

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Case Launches New Tracked Skid Steers

CASE BUILDS BIG-MACHINE THINKING INTO COMPACT TRACKED LOADER LINE

(November 2005) – Case Construction is introducing its first line of compact tracked loaders - machines that combine technology from the new Case 400 series skid steers with the technology used to build undercarriages for Case crawler dozers and excavators.

“Big-machine thinking is built into this new line of compact tracked loaders,” said Wayne Munce, Marketing Manager for Case Construction. The undercarriages are similar to those found on the midsized and larger dozers and excavators in the Case product line. The chassis, which the line shares with the Case 400 series skid steers, is extra heavy-duty, with a Tier 2-certified engine, improved reliability and efficiency, and ease of service.

The Case compact tracked loader line includes the 445CT and 450CT. The 445CT offers 55.2 net kW (74 Hp) with a lift capacity of 1,587 kg. The 450CT delivers 61 net kW (82 Hp) and a lift capacity of 1,749 kg. The 445 CT offers power reach vertical lift, while the 450CT has a power cycle radial arm configuration for high-production digging and faster cycle times.

Case engineers developed the new line after extensive research with customers and owners of competitive compact tracked loaders to identify their needs and preferences. The result is an innovative undercarriage designed for long life, a comfortable ride and a simplicity that makes maintenance easy.

CT Undercarriage Takes Advantage of Dozer/Excavator Technology

Case achieved a long-life compact undercarriage by adapting proven technologies from its medium and large dozers and excavators. These innovations assure durability while reducing operating costs. They include a tapered design for the frame cover, combined with steel mud scrapers to help keep water, mud and debris from damaging the track area. A rigid undercarriage system keeps maintenance costs to a minimum. Track components are protected by a large spring mounted to the front idler. Track tension is easily adjusted with a grease zerk.

Dual-cone face seals provide a reliable, long-lasting seal for a significant decrease in operating costs over the life of the machine. Four triple-flange rollers, combined with single-flange front and rear idlers, maintain track alignment while operating on side slopes.

Same Chassis as Case 400 Skid Steers

The 445CT and 450CT share the same heavy-duty chassis design as their counterparts in the Case skid steer line. In addition to the Tier 2 engine, these models feature a 95-amp alternator for reliable starts. Radial-piston drive motors offer high tractive effort and efficiency.

For operator comfort and ease of operation, the new Case compact tracked loaders are equipped with low-effort servo-hydrostatic controls that reduce fatigue during operation.

Serviceability is facilitated with the “no tools,” tilting ROPS/cab. The Case compact tracked loaders also feature the same extended service interval for oil changes as the new 400 Series Skid Steers—to 500 hours—which lowers operating costs.

The undercarriage design adds about 454 kg (1,000 pounds) to the compact tracked loaders versus Case skid steers with equivalent engines. The added weight boosts breakout force and tipping load.

The full array of attachments available for Case 400 Series skid steers are also available for the Case compact tracked loaders.