JCB Wheel Loaders Summarized — 2021 Spec Guide
Two Units Designed with Extensive Customer Input
JCB’s loader heritage dates back to the 1940s with the Major Loader. Today, the company offers seven wheel loader models in North America and numerous configurations. The JCB range includes two compact models, the 407 and the 409. Both JCB compact wheel loader models are powered by Tier 4 Final-compliant JCB Diesel by Kohler engines that require no DEF or DPF, for improved availability and reduced operating costs. Additionally, JCB compact wheel loaders feature hydrostatic transmissions, all-wheel drive, pivot steer, ground clearance and low height over cab.
JCB’s compact wheel loaders are designed with extensive customer input and consequently appeal to those who prioritize safety, efficiency, ease of use, ease of maintenance, productivity, performance, reliability and comfort. With a compact footprint and tight turning radius, the JCB 407 and 409 are well suited for construction sites, landscaping supply yards, agricultural settings and other material handling applications within confined worksites. Available high-speed and high-flow hydraulic options also ensure the suitability of JCB compact wheel loaders for worksites that require more travel between tasks or the use of larger, power-hungry attachments.
The 409 is Tier 4 compliant using only a DOC, while low-rev power and torque offer good fuel economy. Dimensions are compact for small turning circles. A variable-speed engine and crank-driven cooling fan maintains optimal fan speed for all requirements without using any excess engine power. Power is transferred to the ground efficiently through an innovative chassis, with harmony between all components. The company offers several axle options on the JCB 409, including open diffs for hard ground and limited-slip diffs for soft muddy terrain. The company’s 100 percent switchable front axle diff lock option provides traction on mud and creates no shear forces, so it won’t damage the ground when it’s not in use. It can also be engaged on the move and under load.
A common configuration includes a skid steer hitch with auxiliary hydraulics. It weighs in at just over 11,000 lbs and has a standard bucket capacity of 1 cu yd. With no exhaust after-treatment, the JCB Diesel by Kohler engines are compact for visibility. The sloping rear hood provides an unimpeded view, with the exhaust silencer and air intake filter both packaged out of sight. The JCB 407 even has a cyclonic pre-filter, which maximizes air filtration and significantly extends filter service intervals. JCB’s available LiveLink telematics system provides operators with remote access to important machine status information such as running times and error alerts.
Advice to Buyers
“A machine that’s easy to maintain will more likely be maintained, so buyers should check for easy access to fill points, filters and cooling packs,” says Ethan Clowes, product manager of skid steers, compact track loaders and wheel loading shovels at JCB. “Simplicity is equally important in the cab. For example, look for controls within easy reach of the operator and floor-to-roof glass that provides excellent visibility.”
