JCB backhoes - 70 years and still counting
It's remarkable that it is now 70 years since the first JCB backhoe loader was released on an unsuspecting world.
Already seen 12 months ago in a wheeled version, JCB’s tracked version of its TeleSkid, the 3TS-8T, runs on 450mm wide belts at speeds up to 12.6km/h.
It is powered by JCB’s own 4.4L EcoMax, 4-cylinder engine delivering 74hp.
A 90L/min hydraulic system gives rapid cycling and a 120L/min upgrade option can be specified for high demand applications.
Already proven in the standard wheel format, the 3TS-8W tracked machine has more capacity due to its greater tare weight, pushing beyond the wheeled units’ 4.4 tonnes to a useful 5.7t. Rated capacity at full boom extension is 732kg.
Load-over heights of 2.9 - 3.8m and forward reach of 1.1 - 2.25m at ground level show the versatility of the telescopic layout.
The machine is good for loading or unloading bales, pallets, boxes and bags from one side of a road truck or farm trailer; users can switch between fixed or self-levelling bucket control that combines with the Smoothride suspension system for ultimate load control.
Additionally, operators can manipulate the boom to mimic the actions of a frontloader with vertical-lift geometry.
The country’s 4200 commercial fruit and vegetable growers will vote from May 14 on a new HortNZ levy.
Meat processor Alliance Group is asking farmer shareholders to inject more capital in order to remain a 100% co-operative.
A vet is calling for all animals to be vaccinated against a new strain of leptospirosis (lepto) discovered on New Zealand dairy farms in recent years.
Dairy
Rural banker Rabobank is partnering with Food Rescue Kitchen on a new TV series which airs this weekend that aims to shine a light on the real and growing issues of food waste, food poverty and social isolation in New Zealand.
Telco infrastructure provider Chorus says that it believes all Kiwis – particularly those in the rural areas – need access to high-speed, reliable broadband.
OPINION: Talking about plant-based food: “Chicken-free chicken” start-up Sunfed has had its valuation slashed to zero by major investor Blackbird…
OPINION: Synlait's financial woes won’t be going away anytime soon.