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Volvo improves its backhoe loaders

21 Feb 11 Overhaul of Volvo’s range of construction equipment sees the launch of the new B-Series backhoe loaders.

The BL61B and BL71B have a new curvier, stylized look, as well as a roomier CareCab. Operating weight ranges from 7.1t to 9.8t, and gross power is 64 kW (86 hp) to 74.9 kW (100 hp), the BL61B and BL71B.

The one-piece chassis, loader arm and excavator boom are made from high quality steel and robotically welded, giving precise, constant weld runs for structural integrity, Volvo says.

The loader arm has a box-welded design and is reinforced with a cross tube. The larger excavator boom has a narrow, tall arch design and uses a closed box-welded approach with fewer components and welds, for durability and performance.

The boom allows clear visibility into the trench, as well as enabling closer proximity to the truck for loading. The cast iron kingpost offers flexibility of movement and swing.

The new controls layout sees two floor-mounted levers. An optional fingertip button on the left lever controls the two-way auxiliary hydraulic line required when using double acting excavator attachments.

The BL71B’s front loader has a single lever joystick for operating loader arm and bucket movements, multipurpose bucket opening and closing and also forward, reverse and neutral transmission functions. Helped by a new cast bucket linkage design, the bucket can rotate 205o– allowing vertical digging in all positions without repositioning the machine. Stability is improved by new rectangular stabiliser feet that have 30% more ground surface contact over previous models, Volvo says. The stabilisers are independently controlled, the pads are rotatable and easy to replace when worn.

The new machines use Volvo’s latest D5D four cylinder 4.8 litre engines, with direct injection and turbo charging, meeting European Stage IIIA emissions legislation. The torque converter is one of the largest in the industry, the manufacturer claims. A differential lock on the rear axle is engaged via a foot switch on the side of the brake pedal and provides maximum rear wheel grip over slippery surfaces.

Both the loader and excavator benefit from flow sharing hydraulics that enable multi-functioning for efficient and smooth operation. BL71B features load sensing hydraulics that constantly adapt to the needs of the job in hand.

The redesigned cab has 15% more space than before, with the room between the operator’s seat and the left side of the cab increased. There is also more around the excavator mechanical controls or pilots towers, making the position change between loader and excavator easier. A 30% increase in glass area combined with narrow pillars and a sloping hood bonnet improve visibility when working, says Volvo.

Volvo B-Series backhoe loader specifications

  BL61B BL71B

Gross Power kW (hp)

(ISO 14396)  
64 (86) / 70 (94) 70 (94) / 74.9 (100)

Net Power kW (hp)

(ISO 9249 / DIN 6271)

62 (83) / 68 (91)

68 (91) / 73 (98)

Operating weight kg 7,080 / 9,120 4,290 / 5,352

Max digging depth SAE                 

(Std / Ext arm), mm  
4,256 / 5,320 4,290 / 5,352
Lift capacity at full height, kg 2,830 3,320

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