JCB has five new and improved Farm Master large-wheeled loaders for 2014. These machines feature new cabs with more space and comfort, and the use of the new JCB range of Ecomax engines in some versions.

In the new range, there are standard Agri versions, which it is claimed are suitable for work in buildings and yards, with more powerful Agri S versions with significantly more power.

The standard models are typically 17hp to 18hp/tonne machines with a six-speed transmission. They have closer ratios and a low first gear for better load-pushing performance. This will prove useful for tasks such as loading silage pits. They are fitted with limited slip differential axles and a wide core cooling pack to resist dust and dirt.

The most obvious change for all the new JCB Farm Master wheeled loaders is the new styling and cab. The cab is larger, quieter and more comfortable, it is claimed, with more stowage space and a new full-colour instrument display.

The company claims that visibility to the rear is better as the exhaust is tucked beneath a more compact, sloping engine cover.

The mudguards are adjustable to fully cover all tyre sizes. The rear mudguards are now bolted to the chassis instead.

Improved operation comes from introducing electro-hydraulic proportional control for the auxiliary valves. This allows third and fourth spools to be controlled at the same time.

There is a new constant flow option to power a sweeping brush and similar attachments.

The JCB Ecomax T4 engine makes its debut in the Farm Master 411, 413S and 417 Agri loaders.

This engine meets emissions rules without any exhaust after-treatment technology requiring additional service attention.

New JCB Farm Master 435S Agri

The new JCB Farm Master 435S Agri is claimed to be built exclusively for agricultural applications.

The company claims that it brings improved traction, faster travel speed and greater comfort and convenience for the operator, as well as significant reductions in fuel and other running costs.

It is also claimed that it is up to 34% faster in silage pit operations when pushing and rolling, and up to 17.6% faster on the road.

Compared to the outgoing 434S, the new model uses up to 28% less fuel per hour in silage clamp operations. On the road, the 435S also uses more than 28% less fuel per kilometre.

This machine is powered by a 6.7-litre Cummins QSB six-cylinder engine using catalyst and particle filtration exhaust after-treatment.

The power output is rated at 230hp and 945Nm of torque to give a power-to-weight ratio of 16.8hp/tonne.

The company claims that more power and torque is now available at lower engine speeds than before.