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Legacy of John Deere and the 50D Excavator
John Deere, founded in 1837 and headquartered in Moline, Illinois, has evolved into a global titan in agricultural and construction machinery, reporting revenues exceeding US$9 billion and employing over 75,000 people in 2024. The 50D belongs to its D-Series compact excavators, renowned for blending rugged performance with operator comfort. John Deere’s D-Series machines, including the 50D, feature direct-injected diesel engines and thoughtful ergonomic design that extends service intervals while boosting uptime.
50D Specifications and Capabilities
The 50D was produced from 2009 to 2013, with a typical operating weight close to 4.7 tons (approximately 10,811 lb). Its powertrain includes a Yanmar 4TN88 four-cylinder diesel engine delivering around 38 kW (38 hp), enabling maximum digging reach of roughly 5.94 m (19 ft 6 in) and digging depth near 3.55 m (11 ft 8 in). Transport dimensions are compact enough for versatile deployment—about 5.46 m long, 2.01 m wide, and 2.51 m tall. Undercarriage features include 15.75-inch track shoes, a travel speed of about 2.8 mph, and ground clearance around 1.11 ft. Fuel tank holds approximately 18.5 gallons, with hydraulic fluid nearing 21.7 gallons.
Market Value and Availability
Used units of the 50D remain in demand, typically listing between US$33,900 and US$38,800 for 2009–2012 models, with earlier units priced between US$27,000 and US$32,000. By 2013, values often reached roughly US$38,800. Notable resale listings include a 2010 model with 2,070 hours and cab with air conditioning fetching around US$42,000, and a 2012 unit with 4,341 hours listed near US$22,450.
Practical Context and Stories
A landscaping contractor recounted renting a John Deere 50D for a residential backyard project. The noted comfort of the seat and visibility helped navigate tight tree-lined spaces, while its fuel efficiency kept costs low. Another operator working in utilities appreciated its compact size, which allowed access under power lines without sacrificing the needed reach of nearly 20 feet.
Recommendations and Use Considerations
Operators should consider:
- Proper transport logistics: with overall dimensions around 5.5 m × 2.0 m × 2.5 m, the 50D fits on standard trailers.
- Fuel and hydraulic maintenance: keep both fluids clean and within spec to preserve performance.
- Undercarriage monitoring: track shoe wear affects ground pressure (~4.41 psi) and travel stability.
- Attachment compatibility: the 50D accepts quick-coupler attachments like breakers, thumbs, and augers, enhancing productivity.
The John Deere 50D midi excavator blends the legacy of Deere’s rugged reliability with modern operator comfort, delivering nearly 40 horsepower, an 11-foot digging depth, and a transportable size—all backed by a design that emphasizes serviceability and uptime. For contractors, farmers, and rental operators, it remains a relevant and versatile tool in tight-space excavation work.
