John Deere offers a variety of compact (mini) excavators with a wide range of features perfect for the job site, farm, and beyond. So whether you’re digging trenches, excavating, or landscaping your property, a John Deere compact excavator can help you get the job done quickly and efficiently. In this blog, we’ll explore the different features and key specs of the John Deere compact excavator lineup and why this construction equipment could be a smart investment for your business.
What Are John Deere Compact Excavators?
A compact excavator, also known as a mini excavator, is a small hydraulic excavator designed for use in tight spaces where larger equipment won’t fit. Construction, landscaping, and agriculture activities commonly need compact excavators for quick earthmoving and digging.
At present, the current John Deere compact excavator lineup is available in six models, with a range of operating weights ranging from 1.7 to 6 metric tons—all known for their outstanding power and efficiency. Each model is equipped with a mechanical quick-coupler and auxiliary hydraulics, allowing them to pair with a wide variety of attachments for exceptional productivity and versatility.
What Can John Deere Compact Excavators Do?
The John Deere compact excavator lineup features a variety of models, all of which share the features of versatility, strength, and power on the job. Compact excavators are great for performing a range of tasks, such as:
- Excavating
- Digging
- Trenching
- Backfilling
- Landscaping
The John Deere Compact (Mini) Excavator Lineup
Now that we’ve seen a bit about how the John Deere compact excavator lineup works overall, let’s dive into the key features and specs of each model in the range. Below, we’ll explore the most important features and specs of each of the six most current John Deere compact excavator models, giving you an overview of their capabilities and strengths.
The John Deere 17G Compact (Mini) Excavator
The John Deere 17G compact excavator is the most compact machine in the lineup. Despite its small size, it boasts impressive lift capacity, bucket, arm, and breakout forces. This gives the 17G extra versatility for tasks like underground work, construction, landscaping, and site development. It’s also ideal for most rental fleets due to its easy transportability and wide range of capabilities for municipal, construction, and landscape applications.
What Are the Features of the John Deere 17G Compact Excavator?
The John Deere 17G offers a variety of features that make it a versatile and dependable excavator. Some of those key features include:
Backfill Blade
The John Deere 17G can grade and fill with a standard backfill blade. This increases versatility and stability when using attachments or working on uneven terrain.
Reduced Tail-Swing Design
The reduced tail-swing design maximizes performance and maneuverability in small or tight spaces. The compact size makes it easy to transport between job sites, which is perfect for “dig-and-go” projects.
Variable-Width Undercarriage
The undercarriage of the John Deere 17G can retract hydraulically to fit through narrow paths and tight spaces. It can then be repositioned for stability, eliminating the need for manual labor. The X-frame undercarriage resembles that of larger excavators and is designed to clear dirt and debris from the track frames.
Pilot-Control Levers
The pilot-control levers give operators control over the boom, bucket, arm, and swing functions. The optional four-season cab also has a glass front, providing an extensive view.
Wedge-Style Coupler
The wedge-style coupler allows for fast changes and can accommodate a range of attachments, including hydraulic hammers, plate compactors, and augers.
What Are the Key Specs of the John Deere 17G Compact Excavator?
In addition to the variety of features that the John Deere 17G offers, it also offers robust specs that distinguish it from other compact excavators. Some key specs for the John Deere 17G include:
- 14.5 hp Net Power
- 7 ft. 2 in. Max. Digging Depth
- 3,790 lb. Operating Weight
The John Deere 26G Compact Excavator
The John Deere 26G offers versatility and maneuverability, making it suitable for landscaping as well as excavating and other construction activities. It’s not just a bigger and bolder version of the John Deere 17G, however—the John Deere 26G is a 2.7-metric-ton excavator with upgraded horsepower and operating weight, giving it the brawn to tackle even bigger tasks. Similar to its smaller cousin, the 17G, the 26G is also a great size for most rental fleets with its moderate weight and wide range of capabilities.
What Are the Features of the John Deere 26G Compact Excavator?
The John Deere 26G is a powerful mini excavator with an impressive range of capabilities that make it perfect for detailed construction activities. The 26G boasts a variety of best-in-class features, such as the following:
Heavy-Duty Side Shield
The 26G has a heavy-duty shield to deflect material and impacts, protecting propel motors and boom/blade cylinders. For extra durability, the 26G has securely clamped steel hydraulic lines and covered rubber hoses in CORDURA®.
Standard Backfill Blade
This tool is ideal for leveling and backfilling trenches. It has the same width as the undercarriage for easy maneuverability. Also, you can use the blade to clamp and carry bulky items like pipes and rocks, adding versatility and saving precious time changing out attachments.
Standard Selector Valve
By changing the valve position, a standard selector valve lets you connect two attachments simultaneously. This diverts supply/return oil from one attachment to the other as needed during the workday.
Automatic Track Speed
When maneuvering a heavier load, track speeds automatically slow down to low. Once the load normalizes, speeds return to high without any need for pedal or operator activation.
Spacious Operator Station
The operator station is spacious and has a wide entryway. The controls are backhoe-to-excavator-style and positioned for efficient operation. The swing boom and foldable travel pedals provide comfortable foot room.
What Are the Key Specs of the John Deere 26G Compact Excavator?
The John Deere 26G doesn’t just stop at providing a great lineup of features- its key specs speak to its impressive capabilities as well. These key specs include:
- 20 hp Net Power
- 8 ft. 6 in. Max. Digging Depth
- 6,110 lb. Operating Weight
The John Deere 30G Compact Excavator
The John Deere 30G is a flexible compact excavator that fits the bill for customers in search of a midsize compact excavator model. It bridges the gap between the 26G and 35G options, delivering impressive bucket force, arm force, and breakout force. This gives it the power and durability for a variety of tasks, such as site development and landscaping.
What Are the Features of the John Deere 30G Compact Excavator?
The John Deere 30G is a fantastic compact excavator with a wide range of abilities suited to almost any construction project. Some key features of this model include:
Operator Comfort with Larger Cab
The cab’s large front glass window enhances safety, visibility, and productivity. A work light on the canopy or cab’s top left enhances nighttime job efficiency, and a slip-resistant entry ensures safe cab access even in less-than-ideal conditions.
Larger Hydraulic Pump
The 30G compact excavator has more horsepower and a bigger hydraulic pump, which leads to an increase in productive flow. The higher-flow hydraulic pumps make larger attachments work more efficiently.
Power Optimizations
Power and economy modes can optimize power for specific tasks, improving fuel efficiency and reducing the time needed to stop and refuel.
Control Pattern Selector Valve
In the seat compartment, you can see a control pattern selector valve, which is easy to access and comes with a sight glass for clear viewing.
What Are the Key Specs of the John Deere 30G Compact Excavator?
The John Deere 30G delivers not just great features but also great specs. Some of the key specs for this versatile model include:
- 23 hp Net Power
- 9 ft. 2 in. Max Digging Depth
- 7,220 lb. Operating Weight
The John Deere 35G Compact Excavator
The John Deere 35G is a durable and reliable 3.6-metric-ton zero-tail-swing excavator. It excels in close-quarters work with significant lift and reach, precise control, quiet operation, and a comfortable cab. The compact size of the excavator makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, while the advanced hydraulic system ensures smooth and precise operation. It is a reliable machine that can help contractors tackle a wide range of excavation tasks efficiently.
What Are the Features of the John Deere 35G Compact Excavator?
The John Deere 35G provides a bevy of job-site-proven advantages, including a choice of tracks and attachments to help you customize this dependable machine to your exact needs. Some of the features of the 35G include:
“Quiet Comfort” Operator Station
The 35G has a swing boom and foldable travel pedals for efficiency and comfort. The muffler reduces noise, and the high-idle speed is isochronous for quiet operation. Rubber cab mounts isolate the operator from noise and vibration.
Zero-Tail Swing Design
The zero-tail-swing design maximizes maneuverability and performance in tight spaces like urban and residential areas. The John Deere 35G’s compact size also makes it very compatible for transport to different site locations.
Auto-Idle and Auto Shutdown
The John Deere 35G features top-notch resource management with auto-idle and auto-shutdown. It automatically reduces engine speed when hydraulics aren’t in use, conserving precious fuel.
Independent Swing Boom and 360-Degree Rotation
The 35G has an independent-swing boom and 360-degree rotation, which can handle tough tasks with ease. It also has an impressive lift height and reach, which makes truck loading easy.
What Are the Key Specs of the John Deere 35G Compact Excavator?
Aside from its exceptional features, the John Deere 35G also offers great specs across every area and system. Some of these key specs include:
- 23.3 hp Net Power
- 10 ft. Max. Digging Depth
- 8,135 lb. Operating Weight
The John Deere 50G Compact Excavator
The John Deere 50G is another compact excavator in the John Deere G-Series lineup, weighing 5 metric tons and being slightly larger than previous models. It has a powerful engine, advanced hydraulic system, and comfortable cab with ergonomic controls. The 50G is widely used by contractors and construction professionals for its versatility, efficiency, and durability on the job site.
What Are the Features of the John Deere 50G Compact Excavator?
The John Deere 50G is a multi-talented compact excavator with an industry-leading combination of features. Some of those features include:
No Operator Activation Required
High-speed travel requires no operator activation. While wielding heavier loads, track speeds automatically slow to low and then return to high when the load normalizes.
Easier Maintenance
The 50G has a side-by-side oil cooler and radiator, which you can access through the hinged door. The operator station can tilt forward up to 50 degrees, providing access to the swing motor, hydraulic control valve, engine starter motor, and alternator. This enables the John Deere 50G to work longer before requiring maintenance, thanks to its extended service intervals.
Handy Hydraulics
Attachment hookup is easier than ever with boom-mounted auxiliary hydraulic lines and a standard quick-coupler. Hydraulic-driven attachments that operate either one or two ways are now an option with the return-flow selector valve. In addition, a wedge-style coupler enables quick changes for a wide range of buckets and attachments, including hydraulic hammers, plate compactors, and augers.
Heavy-Duty Design
The heavy-duty side shields deflect material and impact to protect cylinders and drive motors. The single-pin swing post increases boom rigidity, while reinforced D-channel side frames and a heavy-duty X-frame extend wear life.
What Are the Key Specs of the John Deere 50G Compact Excavator?
Not only does the John Deere 50G boast impressive features, but it also packs a punch with its key specs. Some of the 50G’s important specs include:
- 35.9 hp Net Power
- 11 ft. 7 in. Max. Digging Depth
- 10,847 lb. Operating Weight
The John Deere 60G Compact Excavator
The John Deere 60G is the largest compact excavator we’ll cover here, with an operating weight of 6 metric tons. The 60G has a digging depth of up to 12 feet and can reach up to 20 feet horizontally. It has a variety of advanced features, such as a comfortable operator station, easy-to-use controls, and a durable design that can withstand tough working conditions. The compact size of the John Deere 60G also makes it ideal for use in smaller areas, such as residential yards or urban construction sites.
What Are the Features of the John Deere 60G Compact Excavator?
The John Deere 60G retains most of the features of smaller models when it comes to swing design, backfill blade, operator station, and maintenance. In addition, the 60G also offers additional features, such as:
Long-Lasting Serviceability
This machine has the longest serviceability rate with a total fuel tank of 31.7 gal., 2 gal. of engine coolant, 3 gal. of engine oil with filter, and 21.1 gal. of hydraulic tank. This helps ensure efficiency and reduces the need for multiple service trips.
Open Center, Pilot-Operated Hydraulics
The John Deere 60G features a top-notch hydraulic system with two hydraulic pilot-operated controls for boom, arm, bucket, swing, boom swing, travel, and auxiliary functions. This model also comes standard with a variable-displacement pump.
Extreme Powertrain Feature
A 2-speed system with automatic shifting propels the 60G. Each track is driven independently by a hydrostatic axial-piston motor connected to a 2-stage planetary gear-reduction box. This allows it to travel at a maximum speed of 3 miles per hour.
What Are the Key Specs of the John Deere 60G Compact Excavator?
The John Deere 60G packs a punch when it comes to power and reliability, as evidenced by its key specs. Some of the 60G’s most important specs include:
- 53 hp Net Power
- 12 ft. 4 in. Max Digging Depth
- 13,620 lb. Operating Weight
Commonly Asked Questions About John Deere Compact Excavators
What Are Compact Excavators Used For?
Compact (or “mini”) excavators can be used for light demolition, material handling, stump removal, construction projects, and landscaping. They are ideal for smaller construction and landscaping projects due to their size and power ratio.
How Many Hours Does a Mini Excavator Last?
Compact (or “mini”) excavators typically last for approximately 10,000 hours, but the exact lifespan of a mini excavator depends on the model.
How Much Can a John Deere 17G Lift?
The John Deere 17G can lift up to 1032 lbs.
What Does a John Deere 26G Excavator Weigh?
The John Deere 26G has an operating weight of 6,110 lb.
How Much Does a John Deere 30G Weigh?
The John Deere 30G has an operating weight of 7,220 lb.
How Heavy is a 35G John Deere Excavator?
The operating weight of a John Deere 35G is 8,135 lb.
How Much Can a John Deere 50G Pick Up?
The John Deere 50G has a max arm digging force of 5401 lb. and a max bucket digging force of 8268 lb.
How Many HP is a John Deere 50G?
The John Deere 50g has a total net horsepower of 35.9.
What Does a John Deere 60G Excavator Weigh?
The John Deere 60G has an operating weight of 13,620 lb.
Final Thoughts on the John Deere Compact Excavator Range
With a John Deere compact excavator, you can check off every task on your job site to-do list in no time. Excavating, digging, backfilling, and trenching become a breeze with these versatile and efficient machines. Whether you’re at a construction site, on the farm, or doing municipal work, you’ll easily complete every item on your to-do list with a John Deere compact excavator by your side.
For more information on the John Deere compact excavator range and how to get your own, contact your local John Deere dealer today.
