Tracked Excavators

Backhoe loaders have wheeled mobility and on-road capability, depending on the machine configuration. These machines can travel on public roads because they feature a wheeled chassis and built-in roading gearing, but they must be taxed, registered and insured. 

A Backhoe has the same excavation properties of an excavator, but with the additional capabilities of digging, loading and moving material. An excavator has a 360 degree slew which is good for repetitive tasks, whereas a Backhoe has a 180 degree rotation which is best for multi-tasking.

A Backhoe Loader is an excavator but with the additional capabilities of digging, loading and moving material without the need for extra attachments.

An excavator is generally better for deep, long or precision trenching, which a Backhoe is better if you also need to backfill, move materials or travel quickly between sites.

A Backhoe Loader is generally better for bulk material loading and multitasking, while an excavator is built for high-volume, stationary digging. The backhoe features a dedicated large bucket on the front, specifically designed to scoop, lift, carry and dump bulk materials.

You should use a Backhoe Loader when you need to excavate and load/move material, need one machine to perform several roles, need to frequently move between sites or when you’re handling mixed activities like loading, carrying and grading, rather than excavation alone.   

The latest JCB 140X price can be found through the Machine Store - just click here to check availability and get a quote. The expert engineering teams behind this class-leading model have worked to perfect every minute detail - completing 30,000 window and door operation tests, 110,000 hours of engine testing and a host of other extreme assessments. So when you choose the JCB 140X, you can be sure it's an investment that you can rely on.

The difference between wheeled excavators vs. tracked is clear to see (vehicle-style wheels vs. hardwearing tracks) - but how do they differ in performance?

Traditionally, excavators have always been on tracks to lower the centre of gravity and make them ideal for use on more unstable ground. However, wheeled excavators are becoming increasingly popular thanks to their enhanced manoeuvrability, speed and reduced impact on the ground.

The main factors in choosing wheeled excavators vs. tracked are the size of the site, the type of work you're doing on the terrain. If ground needs to be protected - like on a city street - or you need to get between jobs on site quickly - JCB's wheeled excavators suit this scenario. Or if you're working in tough conditions on a rough digging job, JCB's tracked machines range in 11 to 37 tonnes and fit these types of applications.

The latest JCB 220X price can be found through the Machine Store - just click here to check availability and get a quote. You'll be investing in a machine with the X factor - extreme strength, exceptional comfort, excellent control and the experience of greater performance. 

There's no denying the strength of the JCB 220X - but this model's maximum lift capacity depends on how the machine is configured, where the dig end is positioned and whether you're working to the front or the side. For more detailed specs on the 220X's power, strength and capacity, click here to take a look at the dedicated product page.