438CNon-Current

438C - 2007, AME, EU, CIS

Overview

With the versatility to dig like an excavator and load like a wheel loader, backhoe loaders are one of the most productive, cost-effective machines on your job site.

Benefits & Features

Loader versatility

Operator Station

Power Train/Chassis

  April 5, 2024

Specifications

Units: 

Benefits & Features

Loader versatility

Loader

The parallel loader means business - more versatility, more breakout force, more lift capacity.

Loader Attachments

The hydraulic Quick Coupler enhances attachment versatility and provides greater machine utilization.

Operator Station

Visibility

The Cat 438C is specifically designed for maximum visibility - all around. The sloping front hood and divergent lift arms allow the operator to see more of the forward work area and loader attachment.

Operator Comfort

The cab on the 438C is designed to maximize operator comfort.

Operator Controls

The Cat 438C backhoe loader provides smooth, precise control, and ease-of-operation.

Power Train/Chassis

Caterpillar 3054 Turbocharged Engine

Net horsepower ratings for the 438C have increased to 70 kW (93 hp), a 8-hp increase from the original C-Series specifications.

Air Filter

A dry-type radial-seal air filter has been designed specifically for this engine. This two-stage filter incorporates the function of the air cleaner and precleaner into a single unit, which eliminates the hood-mounted precleaner.

Axles and Brakes

The rear axle is an enclosed design that allows extended operation even in the harshest environments. Multi-disc, hydraulic brakes are oil-immersed and self-adjusting.

Hydraulics

The Caterpillar variable-flow system senses the work demand and adjusts flow and pressure to match it. And Cat XT hose virtually eliminate downtime from hose failure. If a hose does need replacing, it's fast, easy, and requires no special tools.

Caterpillar Couplings

Caterpillar Couplings are equipped with O-ring face seal fittings for long life and less maintenance.

Stackable Counterweights

Stackable counterweights allow easy adjustment of weight distribution without having to completely replace an existing counterweight.

Power-Shuttle Transmission

The Power-Shuttle transmission provides four speed selections in a constant mesh synchronized arrangement.

Optional Power-Shift Transmission

Work faster with the new optional Power-Shift transmission. One lever does it all. A twist-grip mounted on the left side of the steering column changes speed and direction resulting in increased productivity. And there's no floor-mounted shift lever.

All Wheel Steer (AWS)

Two-wheel steer

Only the front axle is used for steering. This mode offers the performance capabilities desired for on-road operation, and when additional maneuverability is not needed.

Circle steer

Both axles are used for steering. This mode provides reduced turning diameters and allows for tighter operation in confined spaces.

Independent-rear-maneuvering

Each axle is controlled independently. A rocker switch located on the loader lever controls the maneuvering of the rear wheels.

Optimal visibility to the loader implement

Excellent visibility is achieved with the combination of large rear tires for traction and flotation, and front tires that provide a clear view of the loader implement and front work area.

Modes of operation

All wheel steer provides three modes of operation, all easily selected from the front console. Large, easy-to-read gauge indicates position of rear wheels.

Backhoe versatility and performance

Backhoe Buckets

Caterpillar backhoe buckets offer superior value in a highly durable product. These buckets provide industry-leading features.

Excavator Style Backhoe

Nothing else looks like, or works like the Cat excavator-style backhoe. You reach further and dig faster.

Extendible Stick

Dig deeper and reach further with the Caterpillar extendible stick.

Quick Coupler

The optional mechanical Quick Coupler allows quick and easy connection to tools, and has been improved to provide increased bucket rotation.

Work Tools

A full line of backhoe tools such as hammers, asphalt cutters, and more is available from your Cat dealer.

Load-Sensing Hydraulic System

Hydraulics

Full production is required all the time - so the Caterpillar variable-flow system senses the work demand and adjusts flow and pressure to match it.

Load-Sensing

Caterpillar hydraulics are truly load-sensing - with closed-center implement valves.

Caterpillar XT Hoses

Caterpillar XT hoses are used for high pressure applications to substantially reduce downtime from hose failure.

O-ring Face seal Fittings

Caterpillar couplings are equipped with O-ring face seal fittings for long life and less maintenance.

Unwasted Horsepower/Fuel

In the Cat closed-center hydraulic system, power is delivered only when needed - saving fuel and equipment wear and tear.

Serviceability

Quick, Easy Access

A flip-open engine hood with pneumatically-assisted lift cylinders provides convenient access to a single location for fluid level checks.

Lockable Tool Box

The spacious tool box contains a maintenance-free battery and has ample room for a second.

Reduced Maintenance

Front axle oscillation pin, axles and driveshaft U-joints are sealed and lubricated for life.

Customer Service

Equipment Management Services

By building a partnership with your Caterpillar dealer, you can focus on you business instead of your equipment.

Maintenance Services

Your Cat dealer will assist you in selecting the right Cat equipment to suite your need, to optimize productivity.

Predictive Services

Maintenance Services enable you to maximize availability and performance.

Reconditioning Services

By anticipating potential problems and preventing unscheduled repairs, Cat Predictive Services make sure that your equipment is always up and ready to run - because maximizing uptime means maximum earning capacity.

Availability of Cat Parts

Caterpillar factory-reconditioned parts and components get your equipment back on the job in the minimum of time and with lower repair costs, contributing to reduced operating costs and a more efficient operation.

Off-the Shelf Availability of Genuine Cat Parts

Genuine parts, together with highly experienced, Cat-trained specialists make sure every repair is right the first time and your machine is back earning its keep in the shortest possible time.

Other Special Features

Caterpillar Ride-Control System

A new Ride-Control system is now available. The system is easily engaged by a switch on the front console.

Backhoe Lift Capacity

The C-Series backhoe has even more muscle than ever before. A new, large-diameter boom cylinder and a redesigned boom structure increases lift capacity, providing superior strength and balance.

Dual-Setting Torque Limiter

A new dual-setting torque limiter on the hydraulic pump automatically optimizes hydraulics to match your job application. The result is increased capacity and more performance from your backhoe.

High Rotation Linkage

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