John Deere gives L-Series backhoes more powerful engine; 310SL also gets new hydraulics

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Updated Dec 11, 2020

John Deere L-Series Backhoe digging trench

Five years after launching its L-Series backhoes, John Deere continues to upgrade the models, with the latest advancement being a more powerful engine.

Deere’s 4.5L PowerTech EWL engine now comes on the 310L, 310SL, 315SL, 310SL HL and 410L. It delivers 3 to 7 more horsepower, depending on the model, over the previous PowerTech Plus engine.

Along with more power, the new engine increases torque, and by removing the exhaust gas recirculation system and components, Deere says it improved reliability. The company also repositioned fuel and diesel exhaust fluid filters for easier service.

Power boosts for each model are as follows:

310L – 93 to 100 hp

310SL – 99 to 103 hp

315SL – 99 to 103 hp

310SL HL – 110 to 113 hp

410L – 113 to 116 hp

 

310SL gets PCLS hydraulics

Deere’s upgrade brings its pressure-compensated load-sensing hydraulics to the 310SL. PCLS increases productivity and improves control, Deere says. It also enables trenching at lower rpm, which reduces fuel consumption and noise. PCLS was already on the other models.

The 310SL also gets Lift Mode for greater lifting capacity. The mode automatically sets engine speed to 1,400 rpm and increases hydraulic pressure to 4,000 pounds per square inch. Deere says this increases lifting capacity 10 to 15 percent.

The pilot controls have also been upgraded, with buttons for horn, selective flow, auxiliary proportional roller and extendable dipper stick.

 

Advanced technology

Deere’s AutoShift now comes standard on the 310SL, 315SL, 310SL HL, 410L and 710L. This technology automatically shifts to the appropriate gears. The operator sets the control lever to the highest gear desired, and the transmission will automatically shift based on engine rpm and ground speed.

The models also get Auto Ride Control, designed to improve ride quality and reduce bucket spillage while loading and carrying. Operators no longer have to turn the function on and off, instead it is automatically controlled by ground speed. It also causes the front loader cylinders to act as shock absorbers for a smoother ride.

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Other upgrades: An LED boom light kit sheds light on the trench bottom, and the loader lever linkage has been redesigned to reduce resistance and improve throw and feel, the company says.

 

Changes for 310L EP

For contractors on a budget or those not a fan of engine aftertreatment, Deere offers the 310L EP backhoe. It is powered by a 69-horsepower Yanmar Tier 4 Interim engine.

The model, designed to be a lower-priced option, now has a simpler front-axle design and a four-speed manual synchromesh transmission. The machine has a forward, neutral and reverse lever mounted to the steering column.

 

Quick comparison

Here’s a quick look at some of the specs and features on the L-Series backhoes:

Deere Backhoe Specs