John Deere collaborates on TLB

The 110 tractor loader backhoe from John Deere includes certified FOPS and four-post ROPS safety equipment. The machine was a collaboration between three divisions within the company.

The Commercial & Consumer Equipment Division of John Deere (N-1440) leveraged its experience with Deere's Agriculture and Construction & Forestry Divisions to develop the company's first product ever developed by all three divisions. It took four years to develop the 110 tractor loader backhoe (TLB), which underwent what Deere describes as "rigorous" field-testing and two years of consumer feedback. The compact machine's lightweight and shorter length make it more maneuverable in tight spots and more easily transportable than larger units.

A direct-injected 32-kW (43-hp) Yanmar diesel engine powers the TLB, converting 75% of its new engine power into hydraulic power. A fully independent 25-kW (33-hp) PTO and a Category I three-point rear hitch allow its use in a variety of applications. The engine is mated to an eHydro electronic transmission system with a built-in Loadmatch feature. This feature contributes to the tractor maintaining peak engine torque and performance by adjusting the travel speed automatically to match load. According to Deere, the 110 is the first TLB with a side mount instrument panel, enabling operators to monitor tractor functions during operation of either the backhoe or the loader.

The boom and dipperstick of the Power Curve backhoe on the 110 have a closed-box structure. The excavator-style boom design provides a tighter retraction and lower height during transport and a minimal surface disturbance during digging operations. Other construction features have been incorporated, including a heavy, cast-iron swing frame, an angle-mounted tapered boom, and replaceable pins and bushings at high-wear points.

The backhoe can be installed and removed without getting off the tractor. Hydraulics automatically switch to backhoe function when it is mounted on the tractor. The operator must still connect the main hydraulic supply and return hoses, which can be done from the seat location.

A flip-over seat and quick release transport locks allow quick set-up for digging. An exclusive "creep-to-reposition" feature enables the operator to power the tractor forward to continue trenching without moving from the backhoe operating position. Custom-designed hydraulics and valves as well as 660-mm (26-in) "long-stick" controls ensure smooth control of backhoe operation. Construction-grade hydraulic cylinders and nickel-chrome-plated rods are used throughout the machine.

The 110's loader has a lift capacity of 1237 kg (2727 lb) at pivot points. The boxed-beam loader is precision cut and robotically welded from high-strength steel. A low-knee design and booms that taper inward almost 154 mm (6 in) combine with a sloped tractor hood to improve forward visibility. A three-point mounting system, heavy over-axle sub frame, and webbed ductile cast-iron loader masts add to increased durability. A mechanical anti-rollback device for the loader bucket reduces back-spilling materials during loading operations.

A variety of new hydraulic power options are available from the factory, including a push-button electric diverter valve that allows the operator to switch hydraulic functions from the front to the rear of the tractor. A hydraulic function display pane informs the operator which hydraulic function is engaged.

Rubber-tracked loaders from Cat

Caterpillar's 267 and 277 multi-terrain loaders combine the upper portion of Cat's 236 and 246 skid steers with an updated undercarriage from ASV.

The 267 and 277 multi-terrain loaders from Caterpillar (G-120) work in a broader range of applications and terrain conditions than does a skid steer loader, according to Cat, due to its suspended track undercarriage. The new loaders combine the upper portion of the Cat 236 and 246 skid steer loaders with an updated Maximum Traction and Support System (MTSS) undercarriage from ASV Inc., an affiliate of Cat.

MTSS provides for high flotation, improved traction, low ground pressure, and smoother operation. The system transfers machine weight to the ground through 48 wheeled contact points. To maximize contact with the ground, the MTSS has multiple levels of suspension, with each track assembly mounted to the chassis through a set of flexible torsion axles. Each assembly can flex independently from the other and contributes to minimized vibration transferred to the machine and operator for improved load retention and a comfortable ride. Three sets of bogey wheel carriages are on each assembly, and each wheel carriage has six rubber wheels. Each wheel carriage also moves independently of the others, enabling the track to crawl over obstacles and uneven terrain without losing contact or traction.

MTSS has an internal positive drive system with two rows of rubber lugs on the inside of each track that engage steel roller sleeves on each drive sprocket. The molded rubber track is designed with high-tensile strength cords that are rugged, yet lightweight. No steel is used in the track, eliminating corrosion. Each track is 457 mm (18 in) wide, and track on the ground is 2045 mm (81 in).

The 4131-kg (9088-lb) 267 is powered by a 44-kW (59-hp) naturally aspirated Cat 3034 diesel engine, while the 4148-kg (9126-lb) 277 is powered by a turbocharged 3034 with 55 kW (74 hp). The closed-loop, high-output hydrostatic drive system in each loader features an exclusive anti-stall system. Dual, closed-loop, axial piston pumps are driven directly off the engine. The pumps power two fixed displacement motors.

The pilot-hydraulic joystick controls used in Cat's skid steers are also used in the 267 and 277. Hand and foot throttles allows the operator precise movement of the machine and work tools. Entry and exit to and from the cab is uncomplicated due to the placement of the two tilt cylinders at the side of the machine.

An integral, mechanical quick coupler is standard on each machine. The rear engine compartment door opens 90° for improved access to both sides of the in-line mounted engine. The hydraulically driven fan swings out of the way with the radiator.