The John Deere 50G and 60G Compact Excavators are the newest models to join the G-Series line after the introduction of the 35G at World of Concrete 2013. The 50G and 60G units feature a wide variety of improvements, many of which affect the cab design to improve visibility, operator comfort and thus productivity. These new models are particularly well suited for the rental, commercial/residential building, landscaping, underground and site development segments.

"These new machines continue to expand on the success of John Deere's larger line of G-Series excavators," said Mark Wall, product marketing manager for excavators, John Deere Construction & Forestry. "We continue to implement customer-inspired features such as a widened and lengthened cab for improved operator comfort and a Final Tier 4 solution offering a seamless operation experience with no interruption. And like our other compacts, our two largest models excel in close-quarters work and are easy to transport."

The 50G (36 hp/ 26.8 kW) and 60G (53 hp/ 39.6 kW) are outfitted with a DOC/DPF aftertreatment device to meet the Final Tier 4 emissions requirements. The FT4 design is based on John Deere's IT4 strategy that has a track record of exceptional reliability. Both models incorporate the popular auto-idle feature that slows engine speed when the pilot-control levers are momentarily released – for reduced fuel consumption and noise.

One of the biggest additions to both models is a new door design for improved entry and visibility to the left hand side of the machine. The door design also widens the size of the opening for entering the cab. Within the operator station, a new multifunction monitor provides a coolant temperature and fuel gauge, clock, two trip meters, regeneration inhibit, auto shut-down control and machine hours, among the many functions.

Since machine uptime is imperative on today's jobsite, John Deere added a third service door to the 50G and 60G to provide improved access to the cooling core. The cores were also positioned side-by-side rather than being stacked inline for increased cooling performance.

 

But not everything in these new excavators changed. Similar to all G-Series models, the compacts include unique features such as an oil-impregnated boom, and arm and bucket bushings to help deliver unsurpassed long-term durability.

Attachments and options also strengthen John Deere's excavator offerings. These models can be equipped with an optional, hydraulic, adjustable-angle backfill blade that features 25 degrees of adjustment to both the left and right for more efficient trench backfilling. In addition, a standard coupler accommodates a wide variety of available attachments, such as hydraulic breakers and augers. Contractors also have the ability to choose the tracks that are best suited for their work. Rubber tracks, steel tracks and steel tracks with rubber pads are all available.