InfraStructures - March 2007 - 50th Anniversary of the Backhoe Loader

50th Anniversary of the Backhoe Loader

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the introduction of the first fully integrated backhoe-loader, CASE is making available special anniversary models.

It was in February 1957, that CASE introduced to the world, the CASE 320 backhoe-loader - the world's first purpose built unit. CASE is proud of this important milestone in the company's long history. Since pioneering the first backhoe-loader, the company has sold almost 750,000 units worldwide - far ahead of any other manufacturer.

Prior to CASE introducing a purpose built machine, the option was a standard farm tractor modified to carry a loader arrangement to the front and a backhoe arrangement to the back. The CASE 320 successfully delivered one machine, with one warranty, that was a loader, a trencher, a crane and so much more.

Kevan Dowse, Marketing Director, CASE Europe, Africa and Middle East said, "This special celebration is much more than just the 50th anniversary of the backhoe-loader. It is a celebration of the heritage within CASE that has not been afraid to pioneer and innovate new solutions for the benefit of customers worldwide. CASE is accredited with giving the world the first fully-integrate backhoe-loader.

Not only did CASE give the world its first production line produced backhoe-loader. CASE gave the world features that are today common features - innovations such as return-to-dig and return-to-travel functions, the four-in-one bucket, over-centre backhoe for improved balance, the Case Extendahoe® extendible dipperstick, power loader linkage, Ride Control and the patented Pro Control System (PCS) for superior backhoe control and faster cycles.

50 Years of Pioneering and Innovation
Throughout its history, CASE has always been conscious of the operator. Today CASE cabs are considered amongst the best in the world. Even in those early days, the CASE 320 offered the operator an improved seat. Instead of the traditional steel tractor seat, the 320 offered a padded seat with a back support. The deluxe cab available today provides a level of comfort that sets new standards. It is also the quietest cab in the industry.

The models available today have very little in common with the original model, except the same attention to detail, quality-build: all models continue to set new standards in performance, productivity and operator comfort.

According to Kevan Dowse, one thing that hasn't changed since Case built its first backhoe loader is the fact that Case is committed to providing more than just exceptional equipment. "Our Case financial services group celebrates 50 years in business in 2007, too," he said. "That's 50 years of seeing to the unique needs of contractors and other construction equipment users-not only in terms of providing the equipment they need to get the job done, but also of structuring payment schedules and financing terms that can help them grow their business. Tens of thousands of owner-operators, around the world, got their start in the business with a Case backhoe loader and financing that met their needs."

Special 50th Anniversary Edition Models Available
Models built in 2007 will feature a 50th Anniversary decal on the loader arms and backhoe. Customers can also purchase a special 50th Anniversary Edition, which features bundled options and a special limited-edition decal that is different from the standard decal.

In addition, Case will have on display at Bauma show a custom black Anniversary model that will feature a frosted-window treatment of the original Case 320 in one window and in the other a futuristic model. As a special promotion, every customer purchasing a CASE backhoe-loader in 2007 will receive a special commemorative gold watch

A book describing the history of the loader/backhoe will be available for purchase at Bauma, along with limited-edition prints featuring the past, present and future models.

The Case R Series 2 line includes the 580 Super R, 590 Super R, and the 695 Super R and all feature the exclusive Pro Control System, optional pilot controls and hydraulic loader and backhoe quick couplers for fast attachment changes from the cab, among other features. The machines continue to meet the need for powerful, reliable, and highly versatile construction equipment, reinforcing the Case tradition of leadership in backhoe-loaders.

Source: Case