Why Is That John Deere Excavator Painted Green

[MikePhua]

The Signature Yellow and the Occasional Exception
John Deere construction equipment is typically painted in a distinctive yellow and black color scheme, a visual identity that sets it apart from the company’s agricultural line, which is famously green and yellow. This color separation helps operators, dealers, and fleet managers distinguish between product categories at a glance. The yellow paint on Deere’s excavators, dozers, and loaders has become as recognizable as the green on its tractors.
However, every so often, a green John Deere excavator appears in the wild—prompting curiosity, confusion, and speculation. These sightings are rare but not unheard of, and they often have practical or symbolic explanations.
Terminology Notes

• OEM Paint Scheme: The factory-applied color and branding used by the original equipment manufacturer
  
• Repaint: A post-sale modification where the machine is repainted for aesthetic, branding, or camouflage reasons
  
• Fleet Identity: A consistent visual theme used by companies to brand their equipment
  
• Military Spec: Equipment modified for defense use, often with non-standard paint and features
  
• Dealer Demo Unit: A machine used for promotional purposes, sometimes customized for visibility
  

Reasons Behind the Green Paint
There are several plausible reasons why a John Deere excavator might be painted green:

• Custom Fleet Branding
  Some companies repaint their equipment to match corporate colors. A landscaping firm with a green logo might repaint all machines to maintain visual consistency across job sites.
  
• Military or Government Use
  Machines used in defense or forestry applications may be painted green for camouflage. John Deere has supplied equipment to military and federal agencies, and these units often deviate from standard paint schemes.
  
• Dealer Promotions or Special Editions
  Occasionally, dealers repaint demo units to attract attention at trade shows or local events. A green excavator in a sea of yellow machines stands out and draws crowds.
  
• Owner Preference or Restoration
  Private owners sometimes repaint older machines during restoration. A retired farmer might repaint a construction excavator in classic Deere green simply out of nostalgia.
  
• Factory Error or Prototype
  While extremely rare, early prototypes or factory test units may be painted in non-standard colors. These machines are usually kept in-house but occasionally make it into circulation.
  

In 2017, a green John Deere 135G was spotted working on a municipal drainage project in Oregon. The machine had been repainted by the city’s public works department to match its fleet of green trucks and utility vehicles. The excavator’s serial number confirmed it was originally yellow from the factory.
Implications and Considerations
Repainting a machine can affect resale value, warranty coverage, and visibility:

• Resale Value
  Non-standard colors may reduce appeal to buyers who prefer OEM appearance. However, some collectors seek out unique machines.
  
• Warranty and Identification
  Paint changes can obscure decals and serial plates. Always document repainting and retain original photos for reference.
  
• Safety and Visibility
  Yellow is chosen for high visibility on job sites. Green may blend into surroundings, increasing risk in busy environments.
  
• Heat Absorption
  Darker colors absorb more heat, which can affect cab temperature and hydraulic system performance in hot climates.
  

Recommendations for Repainting
If repainting a John Deere excavator:

• Use high-quality industrial enamel with UV resistance
  
• Mask off decals and serial plates to preserve identification
  
• Apply primer and multiple coats for durability
  
• Notify insurance and fleet management systems of the change
  
• Consider adding reflective tape or safety decals to offset reduced visibility
  

For machines operating in regulated environments, check local laws regarding equipment markings and color requirements.
Conclusion
A green John Deere excavator may seem unusual, but it often reflects a deliberate choice—whether for branding, camouflage, or personal expression. While yellow remains the industry standard, the occasional splash of green reminds us that machines, like people, sometimes break tradition. In the end, it’s not the paint that moves the earth—it’s the power beneath it.