This year, JCB has released three new wheeled loader models primarily aimed at the larger agricultural user such as agri-contractors. These new models are the 427 Agri, 437 Agri and the flagship of the range, the 435S Agri, which is the one we have on test. Having to comply with the latest emissions regulations, JCB also took the opportunity to revamp various other aspects of the wheeled loader in order to increase performance, comfort, efficiency and reliability.

Engine

In order to comply with the latest Tier 4 Final emission regulations, the 435S is fitted with the latest 6.7-litre Cummins QSB turbocharged diesel engine, which retains its exceptional power-to-weight ratio producing 230hp. The fuel tank capacity is now increased up to 400 litres, which keeps downtime refuelling to a minimum. Access to the engine is achieved via a power-operated one-piece engine hood with a separate fuel and DEF access panel.

The emission requirements are met by incorporating the latest efficient selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system along with a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC). Because particulates are dealt with through efficient combustion, there is no need for a costly DPF filter and its attendant burn-off or regeneration and servicing requirements.

Driving the 435S, which was fitted with a 12ft folding ProDig Attachments silage fork, you certainly know you are sitting on a powerful machine. As soon as you press the foot throttle, the engine instantly lets you know it’s alive and has plenty of low-down torque for shoving a full load of silage. Power was never an issue operating the loader – even with a full fork and operating the hydraulics at the same time the engine didn't die down as some others do. Traction let go long before any decrease in engine power.

Transmission

The 435S Agri has a six-speed ZF powershift transmission with torque lock-up in every gear, which ensures optimum power efficiency when climbing the steepest silage pits. This was instantly noticeable when traction became an issue as the pit became steeper, but to be honest when it did engage the loader tended to lunge forward, leaving you with a heart-in-mouth moment, especially when doing finer work close to the edge.

The 435S also features the new Intelligent Clutch Cut Off (ICCO) feature and the 264-litre/min twin piston pump hydraulics package which is very useful during loading work as you are not fighting the transmission with the brakes a sit disconnects the input and allows the revs to go to the hydraulic speed instead making loading faster and easier. JCB now offer various axle options for the 435S which allow it to be tailored to different applications.

Cab

This is where the most noticeable improvement to the 435S is. The new CommandPlus cab is definitely more spacious and boasts improved visibility by removing the cross beam along the front window, making it one uninterrupted piece of glass from top to bottom. The cab is noticeably quieter, with reduced noise levels, while the improved ventilation with climate controlled air conditioning is defiantly a welcome addition when under pressure with trailers waiting to tip on a hot summer’s day at grass.

Another simple but noticeable improvement is that there more storage compartments for you to keep everything away from the floor under your feet. Another new feature is the "set and forget" adjustable steering column that returns to the your preferred position after being pushed forward in order to ease cab entry and exit, which is handy as you don't have to keep adjusting it. There is the option to fit a large electric cool box which I would definitely recommend although its position is not ideal as passengers use it as a seat and it will ultimately get broken. You can now even order your 435S with deep pile carpet to add to the ultimate in loading shovel cab comfort.

Controls

Operators can choose from a one-piece handheld servo joystick or new fingertip electro-hydraulic multi-lever controls. Both options are now seat-mounted as standard, which is a noticeable improvement as the controls move with you and the seat, allowing more precise feel and control. There are two equipment levels available to choose from.

As standard, the cab is fitted with an adjustable steering column, air suspension seat, a single instrument display, windscreen roller blind, heated mirrors and a 12v power socket. The high-spec version has a deluxe heated air suspension seat with adjustable headrest which can be further upgraded to a half-leather ventilated Super Deluxe seat with adjustable damping. There are also twin sun blinds and a USB multimedia connection in addition to a second power socket fitted. Safety is improved when operating in the dark with a new 360-degree LED lighting package which definitely greatly improves visibility for the operator but not for the poor motorists that you meet on your way home at night.

Operators are kept better informed by new instruments in the cab. An LCD display provides routine vehicle information, help menus, reversing camera display and daily service checks such as engine oil and diesel engine fluid (DEF) levels. There is now a secondary screen which acts as a command centre, enabling the operator to optimise the machine for different applications such as adjusting the variable auxiliary hydraulic flow rate, loader arm suspension engagement speed, auto engine shut-off timer and engine fan reversing intervals, giving greater control to the operator, allowing you to fine-tune the machine for the application ensuring maximum performance and efficiency.

Verdict

The new JCB 435S is definitely a step in the right direction and improvement on the previous model. It has ample engine and hydraulic power as well as enough weight to transfer the power to the ground. The single one-piece bonnet is a great improvement as far as access and serviceability goes, although in the event of an engine fire I think it may be too slow to open in order to gain access. The cab is the most noticeable improvement for me personally – it’s more spacious, the climate control keeps you cool, and the seat and controls move together, making it much nicer to use. The new instruments are easy to use and the reversing camera display is ideally located in your eye line for added safety.

On the road the 435S comes into its own with its smooth ride suspension system which floats along at up to 50km/h. Even though it’s quite a large machine, after a few hours behind the wheel you will be confident enough to drive at that speed.

There are, however, some bad points. The hydraulic pipes on top of the tilt rams as well as the headlights are directly in your line of sight when working a folding silage fork, making it both annoying and difficult when working near the pit edge. Another problem is that the plastic mudguards are protruding out way too far over the wheels, causing them to get caught quite easily when working in tight spaces or near silage walls.

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