Caterpillar Inc. : Caterpillar Announces New Cat® F Series Backhoe Loaders

Press Release

For Release in North America: January 2012

Release Number: 2PR12

Cat® F Series Backhoe Loaders Feature New Engine, Refined Hydraulics, Redesigned Linkage and Easier Maintenance

Premium features retained in the design of F Series models from their E Series counterparts include a powerful, load-sensing, closed-center hydraulic system; the Cat four-speed Power Shuttle transmission for on-the-go directional and range shifting; excavator-style boom for added clearance when digging over obstacles or loading trucks; and ergonomic, automotive-style operator's station that provides the innovations in safety, comfort and convenience.

Engine, driveline, hydraulics

The electronically controlled Cat C4.4 engine, using a high-pressure common-rail fuel system for operating efficiency, is equipped with the Cat NOx Reduction System and a diesel particulate filter for emissions control. Net horsepower remains unchanged for the 416F and 420F, at 87 (65kW) and 93 (69kW), respectively, but increases to 109 (81 kW) for the 430.

Driveline refinement for the new models includes a more aggressive torque converter in the 420F for improved performance when both loading and roading, and hydraulically boosted brakes for the 416F. Both the 420F and 430F have a new electronic pump torque limiter for improved power management and improved hydraulic performance. Hydraulic refinement also includes more precisely tuned spools in the backhoe valve, providing exceptional controllability.

Performance at the loader end gets a significant boost with the new F Series models. New lift arms for both single-tilt and IT (Integrated Tool Carrier) models increase maximum hinge-pin height by 5 percent, maximum dump height by 7 percent, bucket breakout force by as much as 9 percent, and lift capacity at maximum height by as much as 13 percent. In addition, loader changes result in improved material retention for IT models.

Durability, Serviceability

The new F Series models use a composite fuel tank that resists rust and reduces condensation, and a new hydraulic tank incorporates a suction strainer and a larger, replaceable, cartridge-type filter. The new hinged cooling pack improves service access, as do new engine side panels that require no tools for removal.

The relocated battery compartment (moved to the nose of the tractor) leaves space for a right-hand storage box, and a new remote jump-start feature provides easy access. New one-piece counterweights contribute to improved machine balance, and a new double-clevis swing casting design adds durability.

Options for the F Series include the exclusive Cat Product Link system (for remote reporting of machine location and operating system parameters) and a cold-climate package that includes a heavy-duty battery and engine-block heater.

For more information on the F series backhoe loaders, customers should contact their local Cat Dealer.

F Series Backhoe Loader Specifications
	416F	420F	430F
Op. Weight kg (lb)*	6,750 (14,881)	6,895 (15,201)	7,125 (15,708)
Dig Depth, Std. mm(ft)	4,350 (14'3")	4,350 (14'3")	4,690 (15'4")
Net Power kW(hp)	65 (87)	69 (93)	81 (109)

* Nominal operating weight

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Note to Editors: Caterpillar rolls-out products and services in each of its territories at different time intervals. Although every effort is made to ensure that product information is released only after Caterpillar has received confirmation from our dealer network, our plants, and our marketing subsidiaries that products and services are available in the relevant region, editors are kindly requested to verify with their local dealer for product availability and specifications.

CAT, CATERPILLAR, their respective logos, "Caterpillar Yellow" and the "Power Edge" trade dress, as well as corporate and product identity used herein, are trademarks of Caterpillar and may not be used without permission.

Image Downloads Click On Images/Links Below for High Res **Most images are provided in .EPS format for high quality, appropriate software will be needed to open the zip file
420F Backhoe Loader	High Res: http://xml.catmms.com/servlet/ImageServlet?imageId=C723076 Low Res: http://xml.catmms.com/servlet/ImageServlet?imageId=C723076&imageType=2
420F IT Backhoe Loader	High Res: http://xml.catmms.com/servlet/ImageServlet?imageId=C723102 Low Res: http://xml.catmms.com/servlet/ImageServlet?imageId=C723102&imageType=2
420F IT Backhoe Loader	High Res: http://xml.catmms.com/servlet/ImageServlet?imageId=C723122 Low Res: http://xml.catmms.com/servlet/ImageServlet?imageId=C723122&imageType=2
420F IT Backhoe Loader	High Res: http://xml.catmms.com/servlet/ImageServlet?imageId=C723126 Low Res: http://xml.catmms.com/servlet/ImageServlet?imageId=C723126&imageType=2

Press Inquiries	Cat Trade Press Media Representatives Americas Sharon Holling: [e-mail] Amber Santor:[e-mail] Europe, Africa, Middle East Francine Shore: [e-mail] General Email: [e-mail]
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