JCB handler range: Upgrades and additional models

JCB is meeting customer demand for increased performance and versatility with the addition of new models in its wheeled loader, telehandler and small articulated loader line-ups.

The exclusive event arranged for Farmers Guide included an explanation by Greg Fitton, JCB’s general manager for agriculture, that almost all the new models include significant updates to increase performance and working efficiency, rather than being radical new designs.

In the current financial climate this makes a lot of sense. JCB has a very comprehensive line-up offered through a network of superb dealers, and for many customers the priority is doing more in less time while improving working conditions for valued operators and minimising ownership costs.

Loading shovel upgrades

The 435S loader retains its current model designation and remains in the same 15t size category, but engine and transmission upgrades significantly increase its clamp climbing and pushing performance.

The same Cummins 6.7-litre power unit now delivers 282hp in Dynamic mode – up from 252hp, and peak torque of 1,200Nm is delivered across a wide 1,100–1,600rpm range, whereas previously it occurred at 1,300rpm, then dropped back as revs were pulled down.

The increased engine power gives the 2024-model 435S an improved power-to-weight ratio of 19hp/tonne – up from 17hp/tonne.

The latest ZF torque converter transmits 25% more drive power in its ‘open’ operating mode which helps maintain work rate and traction as the travel speed and load alters. To achieve this, the torque converter features customisable mechanical drive lock engagement.

Previously the drive train was either open allowing variable drive so that the engine revs can vary within each gear speed during travel or locked which gives a fixed drive ratio from the engine to the wheels. Now, the operator can select when the drive train locks and in which gears.

For road work at high speeds the transmission locks automatically in gears five and six for maximum efficiency, but when pushing heaped silage up a steep clamp the operator can use high engine revs for maximum power while the transmission ratio adjusts to compensate for the increasing load. Descending the clamp, the loader can coast with the engine speed idling.

To demonstrate the superior performance, JCB provided a pair of 435S loaders – one existing and one new model and the two operated alongside each other on a simulated clamp. The extra speed and pushing ability of the latest machine was immediately obvious, and for busy contractors building clamps with silage supplied by fleets of trailers, the faster crop handling will allow quicker turnaround, so trailers return to fields more quickly.

To cope with the extra power and ensure long service life the drive axles have also been uprated, from three planetary gears to four.

The new model includes a change to injection-moulded plastic for the fenders and a snorkel air cleaner with a cyclone pre-filter ensuring a cleaner air supply to the engine.

The AgriPro version adds LED headlights in addition to new rear LED light clusters fitted as standard, a ‘white noise’ reversing alarm, mudguard-mounted rear view side mirrors and a composite rear grille with hazard warning lights. It also adds an extended mesh cover for the engine air intake for operating where there are high volumes of chaff and loose straw.

Simplified record keeping

JCB IntelliWeigh is a new option to simplify record keeping and help avoid overloading trailers and lorries. An in-cab display includes functions such as inputting a target total weight, then the system counts down as bucket loads are added. An in-cab printer is a further option and trade approval is available.

Joystick steering

The 2025 435S demonstration machine also featured a new joystick steering option which became available for wheeled loaders from the 427 Agri to the 457 during late 2024. Mounted on the left-hand seat armrest, the compact joystick can be used instead of the steering wheel, providing a quick steering response while increasing operator comfort during repetitive loading cycles.

Transmission kick-down, forward and reverse shuttle and windscreen wiper controls are also duplicated on the armrest for added convenience. This means most driving controls can be operated by the left hand, while the right hand controls the loader and attachment. The steering wheel remains available for immediate use at any time.

Joystick steering test

Although steering and shuttling by the left-hand joystick is strange at first, the technique becomes quickly familiar. The main advantage is that a single movement of the stick to either side can achieve full steering lock in either direction, whereas using the steering wheel requires multiple rotations. For those spending long hours in the seat, it’s likely to prove a popular option.

Telehandler range updates

542-100 AgriPro: The JCB demonstration event also provided an opportunity to test-drive the Loadall 542-100 AgriPro for the first time. The model was previewed at Agritechnica 2023 then at LAMMA last year, with customer deliveries commencing two months ago.

Replacing the 536-95, the new model has 9.8m maximum lift height and lifts 4.2t and the AgriPro version has a 173hp power unit and a 50kph transmission, although 542-100 AgriSuper and AgriXtra variants with less power and standard transmissions are also available.

For the AgriPro, an optional Sway Control levelling system uses a double acting ram on the front axle – the first time it has been available alongside DualTech variable transmission.

Standard boom guard brushes help keep the mast clean, and the new model features a heavy-duty front end to cope with the extra load.

The cab is available with a clean air kit for the dustiest environments. This includes additional filters and uses increased air pressure to prevent dust entering the cab.

560-80 AgriPro: The 560-80 is well established, but it is now available as an AgriPro version, providing extra power compared to the existing AgriXtra model, with a 4.8-litre, 173hp engine and DualTech VT 40kph transmission. The larger engine and cooling packs remain well protected between the front and rear wheels and the engine hood has a steep slope down to the right – allowing a clear side view from the operator seat.

The boom includes a Z-bar linkage and the AgriPro specification includes 360-degree working lights. The AgriXtra version can be specified to match the AgriPro, including the DualTech variable transmission, although only the AgriPro model is available with the additional power.

Pocket rocket 538-60 AgriPro: JCB describes its latest Loadall 538-60 as a ‘pocket rocket’. In the 8t size class, it is the smallest AgriPro in the line-up and features a power-to-weight ratio of 20.9hp/t making it ideal for applications requiring maximum performance and pulling power. The compact size includes minimal rear overhang, and there is nothing protruding past the wheels apart from the pick-up hitch.

DualTech 50kph transmission is included for maximum versatility and ease of use. Ben Mansfield, product manager for Loadall, told Farmers Guide that since the DualTech transmission was launched in 2016, the company has seen demand grow as customers switch from standard systems.

Articulated telehandlers

The event also provided an opportunity to test drive the latest addition to the Telemaster line-up – the TM280. Production commenced in December and UK customer deliveries have already started, with first supplies to Europe in the spring.

“Customers tend to upgrade to larger models when machines are due for replacement, but for those using our TM220, there was a big jump to the larger TM320 and that could be hard to justify,” explained TM product manager, Joe Eddleston. “The TM280 fills that gap.”

The new TM280 has 2.75t lift capacity and maximum 4.8m lift height, and a Euro hitch option allows attachment sharing with tractor front loaders.

The hydraulic piston pump provides up to 140 litres of flow per minute for rapid cycle times, with 90 litres/min available at the spool making it ideal for powered attachments such as feeders, spreaders or rotary brushes.

The popular TM320 cab was the start point for the TM280’s development more than two years ago, and the new model features a total height of just 2.59m, and it is only 2.1m wide. Developing the new model around the cab included mounting the engine as low as possible. This maximises stability and allows a lower engine hood – for a clear view through the rear window.

There are two variants – the TM280 and TM280S. Both share the same 4.8-litre JCB DieselMax engine; producing 109hp in the TM280 and 130hp in the TM280S, although the other big difference is the transmission. The TM280 uses a standard 30kph hydrostatic unit whereas the TM280S has JCB’s more versatile DualTech drive with 40kph capability.

“The S will be chosen by those with multiple work sites and who want extra performance,” observed Joe. “From 25–40kph the DualTech system utilises mechanical drive rather than hydrostatic so it is much more efficient for tasks such as pulling trailers and won’t suffer overheating issues which can affect hydrostatic units working under constant heavy loads. The TM280 is the ideal option for customers wanting a capable and versatile handler for typical single-site yard tasks.”

Options include an auto-reversing cooling fan, and a specially designed foldaway trailer hitch mounted flush within the chassis to optimise ground clearance when not in use. The trailer hitch package includes a camera which gives a clear view of the hitch when backing up to trailers.

New compact loader

Farmers Guide was also allowed a preview of the new TM110 compact wheel loader, ahead of its official LAMMA launch.

Joe Eddleston explained that the new model provides an option for current users of the 403 wheeled loader, but who want greater lift capacity. The TM110 features 1.1t lift capacity, making it ideal for handling IBCs, or for lifting 1t feed or fertiliser bags.

The new loader is only 2.2m tall and 1.56m wide but has a maximum 3.5m lift height, making it capable of lifting large square bales into and out of stacks up to six bales high. It can also tow trailed loads up to 750kg.

The Perkins power unit produces up to 50hp and the hydrostatic transmission provides speeds up to 30kph, while an optional creep speed is available. ZF axles are used, with a locking differential as standard.

The telescopic boom is available with a Euro hitch headstock – expected to be the most popular option for farmers upgrading from tractor loaders. Smoothride boom suspension is an option.

The TM joystick includes selection of constant hydraulic flow for powered attachments, with flow rate control ensuring implement requirements can be matched.

The TM110 shares its cab with the 403 and has an unladen weight of 3.0t, whereas the 403 weighs 2.6t.

The test drive highlighted the superb manoeuvrability, and the performance which is surprisingly good for such a compact machine.

Like other articulated handlers lift capacity is compromised when the steering is at full lock so care is needed extending the boom while turning and carrying heavy loads, but operators will quickly gain experience of the use characteristics and how they differ from tractor loaders or rigid-body telehandlers.

The cab is quiet, visibility is excellent, and the new loader is bound to prove popular for working in restricted space environments.

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