Cat® 450F Backhoe Loader design enhancements include more power, efficient electronic control, added operator amenities, and easier serviceability

For Release in North America: February 2013

Release Number: 38PR13

The new four-wheel-drive Cat® 450F Backhoe Loader Center Pivot complements the durability, reliability, and lifting performance of its 450E predecessor with a more efficient overall design, including more horsepower, electronic control of the hydraulic system, serviceability improvements, and added operator comfort and convenience. Powered by a Cat C4.4 ACERT™ engine meeting U.S. EPA Tier-4 Interim/EU Stage IIIB emission standards, the 450F also retains the 450E's unrivaled versatility, available with a hydraulic thumb, pin- puller-type coupler, and a range of compatible work tools, including buckets with integral forks, hammers, and plate compactors. The machine will be available during the second quarter of 2013.

With 5 percent more gross power than the 450E, the new 450F has added capability for aggressively digging in stubborn banks and stockpiles, for maintaining faster road speeds, and for more easily climbing grades. The engine delivers 396 lb.-ft. (536 N-m) of torque and has a torque rise of more than 30 percent, allowing the 450F to power through tough applications. An Automatic Engine Speed Control feature reduces engine speed if hydraulic functions are idle, contributing to increased fuel efficiency and reduced sound levels.

The 450F incorporates a closed-center, load-sensing hydraulic system that uses an extremely efficient variable-flow main pump, which is now electronically controlled to provide enhanced power management and response, resulting in more precise control of backhoe and loader functions, added productivity, and increased fuel economy. A replaceable-cartridge hydraulic filter allows environmentally friendly disposal. For operator convenience, the loader is self-leveling and incorporates a return-to-dig feature.

Other design features that add to the 450F's reliability and ease of maintenance include a composite fuel tank that reduces condensation and resists rust, new electric fuel-priming pump that simplifies routine service, single-plane cooling package for improved efficiency and easier cleaning, engine-sump drain tap for controlled oil evacuation, relocated primary fuel filter that is easily accessed, standard battery-disconnect switch, and relocated engine ECM (electronic control module) that facilitates trouble-shooting.

The 450F operator's station features an air-suspension seat, ergonomically designed joystick controls, redesigned gauge cluster that simplifies navigating through system information and control settings, and an available Machine Security System that utilizes a programmable key to deter theft, vandalism and unauthorized usage. For operator convenience, standard equipment includes a 5F/3R AutoShift transmission, with four wheel drive and the Cat Ride Control system, which smoothes the machine's ride, whether on the jobsite or the highway, whether the bucket is loaded or empty.

Optional equipment for the 450F includes an extendible stick, deluxe cab with air conditioning, cold-weather package, third-function loader valve, six-function backhoe valve, auxiliary hydraulic lines, and the Cat Product Link™ telematics system that reports machine location and operating parameters via a secure website.

Machine Specifications

Power, net, SAE J1349	127 (95kW)
Nominal operating weight	24,141 lb. (10 950 kg)
Max. operating weight	27,115 lb. (12 300 kg)
Dig depth, std. stick	17 ft. 3 in. (5.26 m)
Dig depth, extended stick	21 ft. 4 in. ( 6.501m)
Stick lift capacity, std.	4,727 lb. (2 144 kg)
Reach from swing pivot	22 ft. (6.7 m)
Loader hinge pin height	11 ft. 6 in. (3.5 m)
Loader lift capacity	7,870 lb. (3 570 kg)

Note to Editors: Caterpillar rolls-out products and services in each of its territories at different time intervals. Although every effort is made to ensure that product information is released only after Caterpillar has received confirmation from our dealer network, our plants, and our marketing subsidiaries that products and services are available in the relevant region, editors are kindly requested to verify with their local dealer for product availability and specifications.