Backhoe loader - the machine that does two jobs at once
Image: Backhoe loader. Photo by Zdzislawdyrman, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Backhoe loader - the machine that does two jobs at once
A backhoe loader is a machine with a front loader and excavator equipment at the rear. In Swedish it's called a traktorgrävare. The machine can load, transport, and dig without switching machines, making it a practical choice on job sites where space is limited or where the work calls for multiple functions.
This machine type is common in water and sewer works, agriculture, smaller excavation jobs, and property maintenance. Its compact size makes it maneuverable in places where a tracked excavator or wheel loader won't fit.
Machine type at a glance
- Type: Backhoe loader
- Function: Front loader + rear excavator on the same machine
- Common uses: Water/sewer works, agriculture, excavation
- Typical weight class: 6-12 tons
- Drive: Usually 4WD
- Steering: Wheeled, often with rear stabilizer legs when digging
Manufacturers and models
Several of the world's major machine manufacturers have backhoe loaders in their range. Below is an overview of the most common brands on the Swedish and European market.
JCB
British JCB is a well-known name in backhoe loaders globally. The 3CX and 4CX models have been produced across several generations and are common in Europe. The 3CX is a common model for water/sewer and civil engineering jobs, while the 4CX is four-wheel steered and suits a wider range of tasks. Read more about JCB here.
Case
Case Construction has a long history in backhoe loaders. The 580 series has existed across many generations - from older models such as 580K and 580L to the current 580SV. Case machines are common in agriculture and construction.
Caterpillar
Caterpillar offers backhoe loaders under the 416, 420, and 430 series. CAT machines often appear in fleets where the brand is already established through excavators and wheel loaders. Read more about Caterpillar here.
Komatsu
Komatsu has backhoe loaders in the WB series, for example the WB93 and WB97. These machines appear in fleets with an existing Komatsu presence. Read more about Komatsu here.
New Holland
New Holland offers backhoe loaders in the B series, including the B90B and B115B. The brand is strong in the agricultural sector, and its backhoe loaders are often sold to customers with existing New Holland equipment.
Lännen
Finnish Lännen makes a unique variant of this machine type - a combination machine with bidirectional operation where the frame oscillates instead of the machine turning around. Models such as the 860, 8800, and M series appear on the Nordic market. Read more about Lännen here.
Volvo
Volvo Construction Equipment had backhoe loaders in its range under the BL series, for example the BL61 and BL71. These machines still appear on the used equipment market.
Huddig
Swedish Huddig AB manufactures backhoe loaders in Hudiksvall. The machines are built as multifunctional work platforms and are used in railway and track work, cable and pipe laying, and municipal construction. Models such as the 1160 and 1260 series are common in Nordic fleets. Read more about Huddig here.
Fermec / Terex
Fermec has been sold under several names depending on year of manufacture - MF, Fermec, and Terex-Fermec. Models such as the 860 and 965 turn up on the used equipment market in Europe.
Sources: LECTURA Specs; Komatsu Europe; Case CE; The Construction Index.
What to check when buying a used backhoe loader
A used backhoe loader can be a cost-effective option - but there are a number of things worth checking carefully.
Check cylinder seals, hoses, and fittings on both the front loader and the rear excavator. Leaks are common on older machines and can be costly to fix if the issue is in pumps or valve blocks.
The rear stabilizer legs take a lot of load during digging. Check for wear in bushings, pivots, and locking mechanisms. Play here affects precision and stability.
Backhoe loaders often drive on public roads between job sites. Check that power transfer works in all gears, that 4WD engages correctly, and that there's no noise in the axles or brakes.
The bucket, teeth, cutting edge, and lift arms on the front loader take heavy wear. Check for cracks in welds and whether the lift arms are straight - bent arms indicate overloading.
For older models, original parts availability can be limited. Check that you can source hydraulics, cab parts, and engine-related components before buying - either new or used.
Backhoe loaders at Agrocon Parts
At the time of writing, we have parts in stock for the Volvo BM 6300, Huddig 1160, and Lännen Vammas Magnum. We take in new machines for dismantling on an ongoing basis, so availability changes. Get in touch if you're looking for a specific part - a serial number or OEM number makes the search easier.
Spare parts for backhoe loaders
Search directly in stock for your brand, or contact us if you need help finding the right part.
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