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Machine Summary
The Caterpillar 426 is a robust loader-backhoe widely appreciated for its versatility and reliability in tasks such as excavation, loading, and material handling. It features a Cat C4.4 turbocharged diesel engine delivering around 93 hp (68.5 kW) with efficient hydraulics and a power-shuttle transmission for smooth operational control.
Front Weight Purpose
Front weights on backhoes like the Caterpillar 426 serve to improve machine stability and balance—especially critical when the backhoe arm is fully extended or during heavy lifting tasks. Adding front weight counteracts the rear load, preventing front wheel lift or loss of traction during operation.
Weight Specifications
Balanced front weights allow for:
Counterweights are typically bolted onto the front frame in designated areas. Operators should select appropriate counterweight sizes corresponding to their specific attachments and job requirements.
Proper front weight selection optimizes fuel efficiency and maneuverability without unnecessarily increasing machine weight.
Terminology
Operators in construction, landscaping, and utility sectors rely on front counterweights to safely and effectively handle varied workloads. For example, during trench digging or loading, the front weight helps maintain balance allowing precision and preventing downtime caused by tipping or loss of control.
Summary
Front weights on the Caterpillar 426 loader-backhoe are vital to maintaining balance and performance during heavy or extended reach operations. Choosing the appropriate counterweight size based on attachments and operating conditions ensures machine safety, efficiency, and longevity, making the 426 a dependable choice for diverse jobsite challenges.
The Caterpillar 426 is a robust loader-backhoe widely appreciated for its versatility and reliability in tasks such as excavation, loading, and material handling. It features a Cat C4.4 turbocharged diesel engine delivering around 93 hp (68.5 kW) with efficient hydraulics and a power-shuttle transmission for smooth operational control.
Front Weight Purpose
Front weights on backhoes like the Caterpillar 426 serve to improve machine stability and balance—especially critical when the backhoe arm is fully extended or during heavy lifting tasks. Adding front weight counteracts the rear load, preventing front wheel lift or loss of traction during operation.
Weight Specifications
- Base front counterweight: Approximately 115 kilograms (kg)
- Medium counterweight option: About 240 kg
- High counterweight packages are available, increasing front ballast for demanding applications
- Minimum counterweight recommendations depend on the attachment used; for example:
- General-purpose (GP) loader bucket requires at least 115 kg base counterweight
- Multi-purpose (MP) loader bucket might need no additional counterweight due to different load distribution
- Enhanced-stick (E-stick) configurations may require significantly higher counterweights (e.g., 460 kg or more)
- General-purpose (GP) loader bucket requires at least 115 kg base counterweight
- Estimated operating weight generally around 8,425 kg (18,590 lbs)
- ROPS (Roll-Over Protective Structure) maximum load capacity up to 11,000 kg (24,250 lbs)
- Loader bucket capacities around 0.96 to 1.05 cubic meters
- Backhoe maximum digging depths approximately 4.7 meters
Balanced front weights allow for:
- Improved traction on front wheels or tracks
- Enhanced stability and safer operation on slopes or uneven terrain
- Reduced wear on drive and steering components caused by excessive tipping forces
- Better machine control during lifting or breaking operations
Counterweights are typically bolted onto the front frame in designated areas. Operators should select appropriate counterweight sizes corresponding to their specific attachments and job requirements.
Proper front weight selection optimizes fuel efficiency and maneuverability without unnecessarily increasing machine weight.
Terminology
- Counterweight: Mass added to balance the machine against heavy loads.
- ROPS: Protective cage or structure designed to protect the operator in case of rollover.
- Power Shuttle Transmission: Transmission allowing smooth shifting without clutching for forward and reverse gears.
- Enhanced Stick (E-Stick): An extended backhoe arm improving reach and digging depth.
Operators in construction, landscaping, and utility sectors rely on front counterweights to safely and effectively handle varied workloads. For example, during trench digging or loading, the front weight helps maintain balance allowing precision and preventing downtime caused by tipping or loss of control.
Summary
Front weights on the Caterpillar 426 loader-backhoe are vital to maintaining balance and performance during heavy or extended reach operations. Choosing the appropriate counterweight size based on attachments and operating conditions ensures machine safety, efficiency, and longevity, making the 426 a dependable choice for diverse jobsite challenges.
