Categories ↠ Backhoe Loaders ↠ Caterpillar 438C

Caterpillar 438C Backhoe Loader

Category: Backhoe Loaders ➔
Manufacturer: Caterpillar ➔
Model: 438C ➔

The Caterpillar 438C Backhoe Loader is a powerful and versatile machine designed for a wide range of construction and excavation tasks. With a backhoe dig depth of 16 feet and a reach of up to 22.2 feet, this machine provides exceptional performance on the job site. Equipped with a turbocharged engine producing 89 horsepower, the 438C offers reliable power and efficiency for demanding applications. From its hydraulic system with a pump flow capacity of 42.8 gpm to its loader bucket breakout force of 11,330.4 lbs, this backhoe loader is built to tackle tough tasks with ease.

See all Caterpillar 438Cs for sale

Backhoe

Dig Depth	16 ft (5 m)
Dig Depth - Extended	20 ft (6 m)
Load Height - Extended	14 ft (4 m)
Reach at Load Height - Extended	9 ft (3 m)
Reach From Swivel	19 ft (6 m)
Reach From Swivel - Extended	22 ft (7 m)

Dimensions

Ground Clearance	1 ft (0 m)
Height to Top of Suspended Cab	10 ft (3 m)
Transport Length	19 ft (6 m)
Transport Width	8 ft (2 m)
Wheelbase	7 ft (2 m)

Engine

Aspiration	Turbocharged
Displacement	244 cu in (4,000 cu cm)
Engine Model	3054
Gross Power	89 hp (66 kw)
Net Power	85 hp (63 kw)
Net Torque Rise	0.241
Number of Cylinders	4
Power Measured @	2200 rpm

Hydraulic System

Pump Flow Capacity	43 gpm (162 lpm)
Pump Type	Piston
Relief Valve Pressure	3000 psi

Loader

Bucket Breakout Force	11,330 lbs (5,139 kg)
Bucket Capacity	1 cu yd (1 cu m)
Bucket Width	94 in (240 cm)
Clearance at Max Dump Height	9 ft (3 m)
Dig Depth	2 in (4 cm)
Reach at Max Dump Height	3 ft (1 m)

Operating Specifications

Alternator Supplied Amperage	52 amps
Cooling System Fluid Capacity	6 gal (22 l)
Front Axle Fluid Capacity	2 gal (8 l)
Fuel Capacity	34 gal (128 l)
Hydraulic System Fluid Capacity	21 gal (79 l)
Oil System Fluid Capacity	2 gal (8 l)
Operating Voltage	12 volts
Operating Weight 4wd	16,667 lbs (7,560 kg)
Rear Axle Fluid Capacity	6 gal (24 l)
Tire Size Front - 2wd / 4wd	335/80 x R18
Transmission Fluid Capacity	5 gal (18 l)
Turning Radius	27 ft (8 m)

Tires

Rear Tires Size

16.9 x R28

Transmission

Max Speed	20 mph (32 kph)
Max Speed - Reverse	20 mph (32 kph)
Number of Forward Gears	4
Number of Reverse Gears	4
Transmission Type	Power Shuttle

Our Main Office

Construction Equipment Guide
470 Maryland Drive
Fort Washington, PA 19034
800-523-2200

About Us

Construction Equipment Guide covers the nation with its four regional newspapers, offering construction and industry news and information along with new and used construction equipment for sale from dealers in your area. Now we extend those services and information to the internet. Making it as easy as possible to find the news and equipment that you need and want.

Contents Copyrighted 2026, by Construction Equipment Guide, which is a Registered Trademark, registered in the U.S. Patent Office. Registration number 0957323. All rights reserved, nothing may be reprinted or reproduced (including framing) in whole or part without written permission from the publisher. All editorial material, photographs, drawings, letters, and other material will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to Construction Equipment Guide’s unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially. Contributor articles do not necessarily reflect the policy or opinions of this publication.

Read our privacy policy here.
Mastodon