The introduction of Bell’s new L-series Tractor Loader Backhoe (TLB) is said to offer innovation and a wide range of features that one would only expect in much larger, more sophisticated machinery.

Features and productivity

The TLB is manufactured in South Africa and has a range of improved features including:

• John Deere PowerTech™ engine
• The 315SL has a top speed of 40km/h when travelling to a jobsite
• Five-speed PowerShift™ transmission
• Digital monitor providing on-board diagnostics, calibrations and machine information for ease of maintenance
• Ride control is offered as an optional feature and can automatically turn on when ground speed exceeds the speed setting in the monitor
• External shimming of the stabilizer legs to reduce machine movement and improve accuracy during backhoe operation
• An adjustable mechanical on air-suspension seat and lockable storage in the cab
• Re-designed rear lighting is more robust to facilitate easier changing of globes
• Cab ergonomics making the operator’s workspace even more user-friendly

The rear differential lock protection can be enabled through the machine’s monitor, which prevents potential damage from rear differential lock engagement at high speeds.

“An enhanced Loader control grip has a new ergonomic design that integrates fingertip controls into the grip for ease of use,” Bell Product Manager, Dale Oldridge said. “Additionally a multi-function lever has been introduced on the steering column to control lights, wipers and indicators to create a feel more like a modern car, keeping the operator focused on his surrounds while operating in the Loader position.”

These features, together with the standard limited-slip differential on the front axle and fully locking differential on the rear, deliver in-class tractive effort and overall 4WD performance.

The Sealed Switch Module

The Sealed Switch Module (SSM) offers a central location for the machine’s functions and is sealed to protect against moisture, dust and debris.

The SSM comes standard with keyless start and a machine-security system, which requires a passcode to prevent unauthorised operation of the TLB.

Smart technology also offers the exclusive ‘Auto Shutdown’ feature, which shuts down the engine after a predetermined time, which can be set through the monitor.

Maintenance and reliability

The L-series retains its unitised mainframe and excavator-style boxed structures, which are light weight, and provide maximum rigidity and structural integrity for the life of the machine.

The Bell 315SL comes standard with axle cooling and filtration as well as an improved wet disc brake set-up for increased durability and performance especially while travelling between jobsites.

A heavy duty transmission oil filter is geared towards increased reliability while the hinged cooling package design allows for coolers to be separated for ease of servicing and cleaning.

Oldridge said that the “ease of maintenance has been an important consideration and the L-series has same-side, ground level daily service, including fuel fill.

“By making daily checks easier to perform, they are more likely to get done, reducing inspection time and preventing a major failure,” he added.

“Our TLBs also feature an exclusive spring applied, hydraulically released (SAHR) park brake that cannot be driven through, never needs adjustment and applies automatically with engine shutdown while a single, self-adjusting engine serpentine belt reduces maintenance time,” Oldridge said.

He added that the Bell 315SL was a tried and tested workhorse and was as popular as the K-series TLB but with a few “complementary enhancements”.

Bell 315SL specifications:

Engine	John Deere PowerTech™ Stage 2
Net peak engine power	72 kW @ 2 300 RPM
Standard operating weight	8 280 kg
Backhoe digging depth	4,17 m
Loader breakout force	46,8 kN
Loader lift capacity, full height	3 322 kg
Backhoe boom lift capacity	1 104 kg
Dipper stick force	36,6 kN
Bucket force	55,0 kN