10-15-2025, 12:04 PM
JCB’s Global Impact and the 3CX Legacy
Founded in 1945 by Joseph Cyril Bamford, JCB quickly became a global leader in construction and agricultural machinery. The 3CX backhoe loader, introduced in the late 1970s, became one of the company’s most iconic models. By the mid-1980s, the 3CX had evolved into a versatile, four-wheel-drive machine with an extendable dipper (Extendahoe), clamshell bucket options, and improved hydraulic performance. The 1987 variant, often referred to as the SiteMaster, was widely adopted across Europe and North America for its reliability and adaptability. By 1990, JCB had sold over 100,000 units of the 3CX globally, making it one of the most successful backhoe loaders in history.
Key Features of the 1987 3CX
The 1987 JCB 3CX SiteMaster typically featured:
Challenges in Sourcing Parts and Documentation
Owners of vintage 3CX units often face difficulty locating service manuals and replacement parts. The original documentation was distributed in printed form, and many copies have been lost or degraded. For machines with clamshell buckets and Extendahoe configurations, part numbers can vary significantly depending on production batch and regional specifications.
One practical solution is to identify the serial number stamped on the loader frame or engine block and cross-reference it with JCB’s legacy parts catalogs. Some third-party vendors specialize in vintage JCB components, offering rebuilt hydraulic cylinders, transmission kits, and electrical harnesses.
Hydraulic System Maintenance
The 3CX hydraulic system uses a gear pump to supply fluid to both loader and backhoe circuits. Common issues include:
Electrical System and Starter Reliability
The 1987 model uses a 12V electrical system with a mechanical starter solenoid. Over time, corrosion and vibration can cause intermittent starting issues. Solutions include:
Transmission and Drivetrain Considerations
The mechanical shuttle transmission is robust but sensitive to fluid quality. Symptoms of wear include:
Conclusion
The 1987 JCB 3CX remains a workhorse in many fleets due to its mechanical simplicity and rugged design. While sourcing parts and documentation can be challenging, restoration is feasible with patience and methodical inspection. From hydraulic overhauls to electrical upgrades, each system offers opportunities to extend the machine’s life. With proper care, the 3CX can continue serving in excavation, loading, and utility roles well into its fourth decade.
Founded in 1945 by Joseph Cyril Bamford, JCB quickly became a global leader in construction and agricultural machinery. The 3CX backhoe loader, introduced in the late 1970s, became one of the company’s most iconic models. By the mid-1980s, the 3CX had evolved into a versatile, four-wheel-drive machine with an extendable dipper (Extendahoe), clamshell bucket options, and improved hydraulic performance. The 1987 variant, often referred to as the SiteMaster, was widely adopted across Europe and North America for its reliability and adaptability. By 1990, JCB had sold over 100,000 units of the 3CX globally, making it one of the most successful backhoe loaders in history.
Key Features of the 1987 3CX
The 1987 JCB 3CX SiteMaster typically featured:
- A Perkins 4-cylinder diesel engine producing around 75 horsepower
- Four-wheel drive with selectable 2WD for road travel
- Hydraulic Extendahoe with up to 5.5 meters of reach
- Clamshell front bucket for material handling and grading
- Mechanical shuttle transmission with 4 forward and 4 reverse gears
Challenges in Sourcing Parts and Documentation
Owners of vintage 3CX units often face difficulty locating service manuals and replacement parts. The original documentation was distributed in printed form, and many copies have been lost or degraded. For machines with clamshell buckets and Extendahoe configurations, part numbers can vary significantly depending on production batch and regional specifications.
One practical solution is to identify the serial number stamped on the loader frame or engine block and cross-reference it with JCB’s legacy parts catalogs. Some third-party vendors specialize in vintage JCB components, offering rebuilt hydraulic cylinders, transmission kits, and electrical harnesses.
Hydraulic System Maintenance
The 3CX hydraulic system uses a gear pump to supply fluid to both loader and backhoe circuits. Common issues include:
- Leaking cylinder seals due to age and wear
- Contaminated fluid from degraded hoses or reservoir caps
- Sticky control valves from sediment buildup
- Flushing the system with ISO 46 hydraulic oil every 500 hours
- Replacing return filters and inspecting suction screens
- Rebuilding cylinders with modern seal kits compatible with older bore sizes
Electrical System and Starter Reliability
The 1987 model uses a 12V electrical system with a mechanical starter solenoid. Over time, corrosion and vibration can cause intermittent starting issues. Solutions include:
- Replacing battery cables with heavy-gauge copper leads
- Cleaning ground connections at the frame and engine block
- Upgrading the starter motor to a modern gear-reduction unit
Transmission and Drivetrain Considerations
The mechanical shuttle transmission is robust but sensitive to fluid quality. Symptoms of wear include:
- Hard shifting between forward and reverse
- Slipping under load
- Noisy operation at low RPM
- Use SAE 10W-30 or equivalent transmission fluid
- Replace clutch packs if engagement becomes erratic
- Inspect universal joints and axle seals annually
Conclusion
The 1987 JCB 3CX remains a workhorse in many fleets due to its mechanical simplicity and rugged design. While sourcing parts and documentation can be challenging, restoration is feasible with patience and methodical inspection. From hydraulic overhauls to electrical upgrades, each system offers opportunities to extend the machine’s life. With proper care, the 3CX can continue serving in excavation, loading, and utility roles well into its fourth decade.
