JCB 3CX Backhoe Loaders for Sale (7)
As the most popular backhoe in the world, there are always plenty of used JCB 3CX backhoe loaders for sale at Plantpages. With more than 40 years of production there are many different variants to choose from across six model generations. The latest ECO version, launched in 2020 have stage V engines, a revised cab and more efficient engines. Other variants include the beefier Contractor and Sitemaster with specialist models of the 3CX developed for road repair and fixing potholes. Read more about the latest model at the bottom of these pages.
More JCB 3CX Backhoe Loaders Info
JCB 3CX Stage V 2020 Model Launch Details
JCB’s latest 3CX backhoe loader has a EU Stage V compliant 55kW engine.
JCB claim that “the machine delivers improved operator comfort and ease of use, increased productivity and performance, combined with reduced total cost of ownership.”
The Cab Improvements
The current JCB 3CX has a smart new look with a revised Command Plus cab. There are four LED beacons integrated into the cab roof as standard, removing the need for magnetic beacons or drilling of the machine. The beacons can be clearly seen from all angles, improving site safety, while there is no requirement for the operator to have to climb up in the cold and wet to install beacons at the start of the day.
The Command Plus cab features yellow grab handles, for a clear touch point and there are larger mirrors for an improved view behind the machine when manoeuvring around site or when roading. Revised square work lights offer increased adjustment and the LED option now includes up to 10 lights, providing maximum illumination of the working area.
Inside the Cab
The cab interior provides a new level of comfort and usability. It features a split colour line, with darker grey used for the lower half and a lighter grey in the upper half of the cabin. This adds to the airy, spacious feel, providing the operator with a calm, comfortable working environment. There is a new seat, with a dark fabric and yellow stitching and a headrest is available on the Advanced Easy Control (AEC) model.
A revised three-spoke steering wheel provides an improved view of the new front display screen, which comes as standard on the latest 3CX. The screen shows the speedometer, all warning lights and the selected gear on Powershift models. For the first time JCB will also supply a factory-fit radio with Bluetooth telephone compatibility and USB, AUX and SD card capabilities. The radio is integrated into the headliner, but can be controlled by a rotary switch in the side console. Audio and telephone functions are also displayed in the new 7” side display screen.
This side screen provides the operator with increased functionality and increased information. The display is controlled by an automotive-style rotary switch, that provides quick access to the various operating menus.
Operator Assistance Aids
The 55kW Stage V 3CX came with some new automation features, designed to reduce operator fatigue and to boost productivity. This includes Auto Stop, which automatically detects when the machine is no longer in use and shuts down the engine. Auto Stop eliminates engine idling, reducing fuel consumption and cutting emissions. The shut-down delay can be pre-set or adjusted by the operator through the side screen in the cab.
Auto Seat Select is available on machines equipped with servo lever control and automatically recognises which direction the seat is facing, eliminating the need to select functions as the operator changes from front to rear facing positions. Also available on servo models, automatic stabilisers now offer not just an auto-raise function, but also an automatic extend setting, stopping as the feet make contact with the ground. Automatic levelling lets the machine rapidly find a horizontal operating position on uneven ground.
Auto Drive has been improved, allowing the operator to automatically select a chosen engine speed when travelling on the road. Operation has been made easier with a new lever mounted beneath the direction selection control.
To reduce unnecessary tyre wear and fuel consumption, the 3CX now comes with Auto 2WD. This switches the transmission from 4WD to 2WD when the additional traction is no longer required. It allows the operator to select 4WD to dig into a pile or a face, where maximum tractive effort is required. Then, when the machine backs away and starts to travel at speed, the transmission automatically changes to 2WD. The speed at which this change occurs can be set by the operator through the side screen menus.
Additional lighting has been added to illuminate the cab on both sides of the machine around the step area, making it easier for the operator to access and leave the machine in the dark. A timer can be set to automatically dim the lighting when the machine is switched off, or once the door has been closed. The 3CX also benefits from a host of standard features, including rear light guards, a return-to-dig system, front shovel clam cylinder guards, loader pipework and the loader Smooth Ride System.
The Engine
The 55kW 3CX is powered by JCB’s latest EU Stage V compliant 3.0-litre diesel engine, replacing the previous generation 4.4-litre. The compact engine delivers 55kW of power and 440Nm of torque, an increase of 10% over the previous model. Its smaller capacity and increased efficiency result in up to a 7% fuel saving over the Stage IV 55kW engine in general use. The 3.0-litre JCB engine achieves EU Stage V emissions standards without the need for a Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) or any form of exhaust additive.
The engine is equipped with a combined Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC) and Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), with an 8,000-hour operating life. Regeneration is automatically controlled and can be monitored through JCB’s standard LiveLink telematics system. The engine benefits from a sealed for life crankcase ventilation module and hydraulic tappets, removing the need for manual adjustment. This contributes to lower service and maintenance costs and a cut in total cost of ownership for the customer.
What’s the difference Between the JCB 3CX ECO Vs PLUS Vs PRO?
At stage V the 3CX range is available as an Eco, Plus or PRO version.
All dimensions are the same across the three backhoes – the differences are mainly in the driveline.
The ECO comes with JCB’s 3-litre, 55kw engine, whilst the 3CX Plus or 3CX Pro comes with the 4.8 litre 81kW engine.
The choice of transmissions across the range is similar, with the 6-speed Autoshift available to replace the Powershift transmissions on the PRO versions.
Operating weights are 8,320 for the ECO and 8,600 for the PLUS and the PRO and all models are two wheel steer.
As far as digging dynamics are concerned, all models have the same capabilities, unless the 3CX Eco is specified with the standard dipper, as opposed to the extradig which is standard across the other two models.
For specialist roadworks operations, JCB have launched the 3CX Pothole Master. This comes with a choice of the two higher output engine version of 91 or 109HP. Instead of the standard backhoe, the rear attachment uses a patch planer (400mm) with a sweeping collector at the front.
