Case and Hetfield Unleash the Most Metal Compact Track Loader Ever Built
TV450B Gets a Limited Edition Makeover
Case Construction Equipment just dropped a thunderous update to its compact equipment lineup — the Hetfield Limited Edition TV450B compact track loader. Only 25 of these beasts will be made, each wrapped in a one-of-a-kind design inspired by Metallica frontman James Hetfield. The machine was first revealed in December 2024 at Metallica’s Helping Hands charity concert. Now, it’s being released to the public in very limited numbers. Operators can channel their inner metal god while lifting, loading and grading — because this machine brings the noise. From the press release:
“The Hetfield Limited Edition TV450B compact track loader is a showcase machine that’s outfitted to be as distinctive as James Hetfield’s legendary voice,” says Terry Dolan, head of CNH Construction Brands, North America. “And, just like his unique ability to bring both force and finesse to every riff, this special edition CTL brings power and precision to the jobsite — in signature fashion — so operators can be more productive and crews can be more competitive.”
A Look That Shreds
The Hetfield Edition TV450B screams attitude with a custom wrap modeled after one of James Hetfield’s iconic guitars. The machine’s base gray paint is covered in Metallica-style fonts, skull-and-wings decals inspired by Hetfield’s tattoos and bold graphics that wouldn’t look out of place on a tour poster. On the rear grill, a laser-cut steel nameplate with a Hetfield decal is bolted in with anti-tamper fasteners. Inside the cab, a guitar-shaped, sequentially numbered badge marks each machine’s place in the limited run, while a Hetfield/Case logo stamped on the seat adds another hit of metal flair. This machine doesn’t just work hard — it looks like it could headline a festival.
The Metal Beneath the Paint
While the wrap is wild, the heart of the machine is all business:
- 90-hp engine
- 4,500-lb rated operating capacity
- High-flow hydraulics for demanding attachments
- Case EZ Trac for traction, stability and reduced maintenance
The TV450B is part of Case ’s B Series — known for comfort, control and power. This limited edition runs the same frame and specs as the standard model. It just looks meaner. While we’re here, maybe you’re Interested in learning about all of Case’s compact track loaders? Check out our product and spec summary.
Only 25. First-Come, First-Served.
Want one? You’ll need to act fast. Case is offering only 25 Hetfield Limited Edition TV450Bs. Sales are first-come, first-served for qualified buyers. Interested contractors can fill out a request form at CaseCE.com/Hetfield. A diecast collectible version will also hit the Case online store later this fall. That’s what I’m aiming for.
We Covered the First One — And It Was Hetfield’s
This isn’t Case ’s first ride with heavy metal. We covered the original Hetfield-wrapped CTL back in December 2024 after it debuted at the Helping Hands concert. Built for Hetfield’s own ranch, that custom unit featured a sandy camo wrap, skull graphics and the word “Sandman” across the boom — nodding to the iconic Metallica track. Case collaborated with John Piper, a custom vehicle designer, to build that original machine. The reception was loud and positive — so Case decided to build a few more for the fans.
Show Us Your Metal Contest
To crank the volume even louder, Case launched the Show Us Your Metal contest. The rules are simple:
- Snap a photo of yourself striking your best heavy metal pose
- Submit it at CaseCE.com/ShowUsYourMetal
- Enter between June 20 and July 31, 2025
One grand prize winner gets a full Case/Hetfield merch package. Other winners score exclusive gear, including a limited-edition cap. Unfortunately, no one wins a Hetfield Limited Edition TV450B.
Part of Case’s IronSkins Legacy
This isn’t Case’s first custom wrap. The IronSkins program, launched at Equip Expo a ways back, offers stylized skins like:
- Commander — Matte camo
- Summit — Granite-inspired
- Rogue — Black and white splatter
But the Hetfield edition takes customization to the next level. It’s not just a skin — it’s a tribute to one of metal’s greatest frontmen and the contractors who share his drive. It’s a reminder that performance and personality can share the same cab.
Keith Gribbins is publisher of Compact Equipment.
