Video: JCB’s James Gill Walks Us Through the Brand’s Full Backhoe Loader Lineup
Equipment expert and Machine Heads host Wayne Grayson sits down with James Gill of JCB to talk backhoes. They cover why the category still matters, what’s new across JCB’s lineup and where contractors are deploying these machines today. Watch the full Machine Heads interview for the complete walkthrough and operator insights. Backhoes lost ground to CTLs and minis over the last decade. Demand has ticked up as fleets rethink roading speed, attachment power and one-machine versatility. We touch on the “why” in the video, then dig into models and specs you can use.
Also cool to note: JCB recently produced its one millionth backhoe loader. The milestone arrived alongside updates to its 3CX and 4CX models displayed at The ARA Show earlier this year.
The Compact Track Backhoe: 1CXT
Start small with the 1CXT. It pairs a skid steer-style loader front with a compact excavator rear on rubber tracks. It runs a 49-hp engine and accepts common skid steer attachments. Max dig depth reaches 8 ft, 4 in. to 10 ft, 1 in., depending on configuration. Operating weight stays under 10,000 lbs, which eases trailering.
Best for: tight sites, landscape jobs, property maintenance.
Urban Specialist: 3CX Compact
The 3CX Compact targets constrained work. It uses a 74-hp engine with no DEF or DPF. Top speed is 24.9 mph for quick moves between tasks. A skid steer quick hitch and optional handheld tool circuit, which allows use of hand tools like breakers or water pumps, expand its role beyond trenching and loading.
Best for: municipalities, road crews, utility repairs in one lane.
Core Line: 3CX
The 3CX family spans value models to roading-focused builds.
- 3CX-14: 74 hp, broad contractor appeal, no DEF, optional handheld tool circuit, self-leveling loader.
- 3CX Plus & Pro: 109 hp with higher torque. The Pro variant is tuned for speed and travel productivity. JCB’s latest 3CX updates add a six-speed auto-shift and outer-box dipper option on select configs. Top road speeds approach 30 mph.
Best for: general construction, rental, public works.
Heavy Hitter: 4CX
The 4CX rides on four equal-sized wheels for traction and flotation. It brings stronger loader performance and multiple steering modes on higher-spec variants. The 2025 refresh mirrors 3CX updates with faster roading and a new outer-box dipper option, plus cab improvements for visibility and control.
Best for: load-and-carry jobs, soft ground, mixed duty cycles.
Side Shift Interest Is Growing
North America has favored center-pivot for decades. Space-limited jobs and street work are pushing more buyers to look at side shift options for digging against structures and improving machine positioning. JCB offers side shift in Compact and select 3CX/4CX configurations. See the episode for where side shift helps most.
Bottom Line
Backhoes are not going away. JCB’s range covers sub-10,000-lb compact jobs up through high-speed roading and heavy loader tasks. If you want one machine that digs, loads and moves itself between sites, this episode is worth your time. Hit play and get the full tour. Then, visit our YouTube channel to see more videos and subscribe.
Keith Gribbins is publisher of Compact Equipment.
Let’s take a look at the smallest mini excavators on the market.
