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Volvo’s Entry into the Backhoe Market
Volvo Construction Equipment, a division of the Swedish industrial giant Volvo Group, entered the backhoe loader market in the early 2000s with the BL series. Known for their excavators and wheel loaders, Volvo aimed to bring the same engineering quality and operator comfort to the tractor-loader-backhoe (TLB) segment. The BL70 and BL71 models were designed for general construction, utility trenching, and site cleanup, competing with established brands like Caterpillar, John Deere, and Case.
The BL71, in particular, featured a side-shift boom, four-speed transmission with automatic shift in fourth gear, and a cab layout modeled after Volvo’s wheel loaders. With an operating weight around 9 tons and a bucket breakout force exceeding 12,000 lbf, it was positioned as a durable, mid-range backhoe with European design sensibilities.
Performance and Operator Feedback
Operators who transitioned from JCB or New Holland machines to Volvo backhoes noted several key differences:
Durability and Common Issues
Volvo backhoes generally have a reputation for reliability, with minimal downtime due to breakage. However, some used units—especially those purchased through auction houses—may present structural fatigue. One operator reported a vertical boom crack on a BL70, which required replacement but did not affect long-term performance.
When purchasing used Volvo backhoes:
Volvo backhoes support a wide range of attachments, including concrete breakers, augers, and compact grapples. For those seeking a breaker, start by identifying the hydraulic flow rate and pressure rating of the machine. Most BL70s operate at around 35–40 gpm with pressures up to 3,000 psi, suitable for mid-size hydraulic hammers.
Recommended steps for attachment sourcing:
Despite Volvo’s strong brand, their backhoes are less common in North America compared to Case, Deere, and CAT. This may be due to limited dealer promotion or regional preferences. In some areas, Volvo dealers focus more on excavators and loaders, leaving backhoes underrepresented.
However, in Europe and parts of Asia, Volvo backhoes enjoy broader adoption. Their side-shift design and compact footprint make them ideal for urban infrastructure work.
Conclusion
Volvo backhoes like the BL70 and BL71 offer solid performance, smooth hydraulics, and durable construction. While not as widespread as other brands, they hold their own in terms of operator comfort and mechanical integrity. For buyers seeking a reliable machine with European design and a touch of Volvo’s engineering legacy, these backhoes are worth a closer look—especially when properly maintained and paired with the right attachments.
Volvo Construction Equipment, a division of the Swedish industrial giant Volvo Group, entered the backhoe loader market in the early 2000s with the BL series. Known for their excavators and wheel loaders, Volvo aimed to bring the same engineering quality and operator comfort to the tractor-loader-backhoe (TLB) segment. The BL70 and BL71 models were designed for general construction, utility trenching, and site cleanup, competing with established brands like Caterpillar, John Deere, and Case.
The BL71, in particular, featured a side-shift boom, four-speed transmission with automatic shift in fourth gear, and a cab layout modeled after Volvo’s wheel loaders. With an operating weight around 9 tons and a bucket breakout force exceeding 12,000 lbf, it was positioned as a durable, mid-range backhoe with European design sensibilities.
Performance and Operator Feedback
Operators who transitioned from JCB or New Holland machines to Volvo backhoes noted several key differences:
- Smooth hydraulic response: While not as fast as JCB’s backend, the BL71 offered smoother control, especially in fine grading and trenching.
- Robust boom structure: The rear boom appeared chunkier than comparable models, with larger hydraulic rams and a higher-capacity pump.
- Cab comfort: The cab was praised for its visibility and ergonomic layout, though some found it slightly lighter on the front end during aggressive loading.
Durability and Common Issues
Volvo backhoes generally have a reputation for reliability, with minimal downtime due to breakage. However, some used units—especially those purchased through auction houses—may present structural fatigue. One operator reported a vertical boom crack on a BL70, which required replacement but did not affect long-term performance.
When purchasing used Volvo backhoes:
- Inspect the boom welds and pivot points for stress fractures
- Check hydraulic lines for abrasion and leaks
- Test the transmission shift logic, especially in fourth gear
- Verify side-shift mechanism alignment and lockout function
Volvo backhoes support a wide range of attachments, including concrete breakers, augers, and compact grapples. For those seeking a breaker, start by identifying the hydraulic flow rate and pressure rating of the machine. Most BL70s operate at around 35–40 gpm with pressures up to 3,000 psi, suitable for mid-size hydraulic hammers.
Recommended steps for attachment sourcing:
- Match the mounting plate and hydraulic coupler to the backhoe’s quick-attach system
- Choose a breaker with auto-lube and anti-blank firing features for longevity
- Consider rental trials before purchase to assess compatibility
Despite Volvo’s strong brand, their backhoes are less common in North America compared to Case, Deere, and CAT. This may be due to limited dealer promotion or regional preferences. In some areas, Volvo dealers focus more on excavators and loaders, leaving backhoes underrepresented.
However, in Europe and parts of Asia, Volvo backhoes enjoy broader adoption. Their side-shift design and compact footprint make them ideal for urban infrastructure work.
Conclusion
Volvo backhoes like the BL70 and BL71 offer solid performance, smooth hydraulics, and durable construction. While not as widespread as other brands, they hold their own in terms of operator comfort and mechanical integrity. For buyers seeking a reliable machine with European design and a touch of Volvo’s engineering legacy, these backhoes are worth a closer look—especially when properly maintained and paired with the right attachments.
