The 318E and 320E skid steer loaders are new mid-frame additions to John Deere’s E-Series line. The machines include upgraded boom performance, auxiliary lines that are integrated through the boom for improved visibility and added protection, and cab improvements aimed at improving operator and machine productivity, uptime, and lower daily operating costs.

The 318E skid steer loader features gross horsepower of 63 hp @ 2,500 rpm, a tipping load of 3,900 lbs., rated operating capacity of 1,950 lbs., and bucket breakout force of 6,000 lbs.

The 320E skid steer loader features a gross horsepower of 69 hp @ 2,500 rpm, tipping load of 4,380 lbs., rated operating capacity of 2,190 lbs., and bucket breakout force of 6,000 lbs.

The machines are powered by Yanmar Final Tier 4 diesel engines. The engines in all E-Series models feature cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) with an exhaust filter consisting of a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), and diesel particulate filter (DCF).

John Deere offers all major control patterns on these models. This includes traditional hand and foot controls, hand-only controls, or low-effort, electro-hydraulic joystick controls in both the ISO and “H” patterns. The E-Series features an exclusive option that allows the operator to switch between all three industry control patterns – so users can choose the control pattern they’re most comfortable using.

The optimized boom design provides best-in-class performance throughout the lift path. It also offers greater reach at truck-bed height and increases lift height to the hinge pin.

Other new features include connect-under-pressure auxiliary hydraulic couplers and courtesy lighting that stays on up to 90 seconds after the engine is shut down, illuminating the way for easier exists out of dark barns or after-hour jobsites.

In addition to the standard improvements, the mid-frame E-Series models offer several options that further enhance ease-of-use and productivity, including a new keyless-start sealed-switch feature with an anti-theft system and a ride control option that features shock-absorbing boom cylinders that cushion bumps, helping retain full bucket loads to the intended destination and help navigation over rough terrain. Another option gives customers the ability to convert the foot throttle pedal into a decelerator pedal for increased productivity in dozing and loading applications.

The mid-frame models boast several customer favorite features from their D-Series predecessors, including a pressurized cab with best-in-class visibility, auto-idle to help conserve fuel and best-in-class service access. In addition, industry-leading options such as the reversing fan can be set to automatically reverse to clear core-clogging buildup.