Case Construction Equipment is making numerous updates to its N Series backhoe loaders, including new industry-exclusive PowerBoost functionality, a new PowerDrive transmission upgrade with Direct Drive, and a factory-installed thumb that makes backhoe operation more versatile. New Case N Series backhoes also feature updates to loader controls, including a new declutch trigger, new roller/rocker switch for better attachment control, and an all-new F-N-R thumb switch for simplified operation.

Case N Series backhoe loader updates for 2019 include:

• PowerBoost: A new button on the left-hand backhoe joystick provides the operator with a momentary boost of increased hydraulic power without decreasing engine RPM (so as not to affect speed/cycle times). This feature is ideal for digging through tough conditions, including hard clay, rock, and frost. Case backhoes still feature PowerLift, which provides added lifting power (comparable with some mid-sized excavators) at lower engine RPM.

• PowerDrive Upgrades: A new feature on Case S-Type and H-Type transmissions, Direct Drive, engages the engine and transmission directly for improved gradeability, faster roading speeds, improved fuel economy, and faster travel times around the jobsite and between jobs. The PowerDrive transmission maintains the existing autoshift feature and now includes an automated activation of the direct drive feature in third and fourth gears based on torque demand and conditions on the jobsite.

• Factory-Installed Hydraulic Thumb: Available on all extendahoe models, this new factory-installed hydraulic thumb improves material handling performance and is also compatible with either a mechanical or hydraulic bucket coupler, allowing the owner to change buckets/attachments without affecting the thumb installation. All new extendahoe models include the new thumb mounting provision, providing the customer the ability to add on the new thumb after the time of purchase without requiring any welding on the structure.

• New Loader Control Functions: The loader joystick features three new switches that will simplify operation and make it more intuitive: A new declutch trigger on the back of the joystick allows for simple operation while performing continuous/repetitive operations, such as loading trucks; a new roller/rocker switch comes with a detent position that can be locked in the forward position for use with attachments such as brooms and snow blowers; and a new F-N-R switch allows for quick and easy directional changes without taking a hand off the joystick.

• Backhoe Control Roller Switches: Newly enhanced roller switches for auxiliary and extendahoe control have been added to the backhoe pilot control joysticks for intuitive control and improved metering.

• Cab Amenities: Case has improved the seat design with new cushioning on its air-ride seats, and a new premium heated, air suspension seat option with multi-colored, hand-stitched fabric. A hands-free Bluetooth radio has also been added.

• Electronic Fuel Priming System: Standard on all 580N and larger backhoes, this new system is easily accessible at ground level and evacuates all of the air out of the fuel lines for a simpler and more efficient service of the fuel filters. 

• Horsepower on the 580SN Wide Track model has increased to 110 hp.