Two new additions to the John Deere Skid Steer family - the 313 and 315 - feature the same unified design as the rest of the line and continue the 300 Series advantages of superior stability, visibility and serviceability.

These two models are compact and maneuverable yet powerful, with rated operating capacities of 1,300 and 1,500 pounds. Features like 10x16.5-inch tires for traction and flotation, heavy-duty drive chains that never need adjusting, and best-in-class visibility provide outstanding safety while operating in tight spaces. Key market segments for the 313 and 315 include building and site development, landscaping, underground, road building and agricultural applications. These new models have standard machine widths of 59 inches (a key width for working in the tightest areas, like confined backyards or sidewalks for snow removal.) If desired, they can be reduced to just 56 inches with available 7x15-inch tires.

"These two machines are loaded with a host of features that provide productivity, maximum uptime and low daily operating costs - they're specifically designed to save an owner valuable time and money," said Gregg Zupancic, product marketing manager, John Deere Construction and Forestry Division.

Enhanced Productivity, Performance
A key feature of the 313 and 315 is the radial lift boom, a design that is preferred by customers who work in enclosed areas for super compactness. The bucket rests close to the machine when in the down position and swings forward for great reach in the "work zone" four- to five-foot range. Cushioned bucket and lift cylinders provide smooth deceleration at the end of the boom lower position, also cushioning the bucket when curling and dumping a load. This feature provides less noise and reduced material spillage in any operation.

Industry-leading 60-40 weight distribution provides great balance of power and maneuverability, while the industry's best 360-degree visibility offers uninterrupted views to the sides, both above and below the lift arms, so the operator can see the tires and ground around the machine with the boom in the rest position. And, the low sloped rear hood provides unmatched rear visibility, even on a radial lift-style machine.

These machines are equipped with a John Deere PowerTech(TM) 4024T four-cylinder, 2.4-liter-engine rated at 2,400 rpm for smooth operation, low noise and maximum fuel efficiency. The engine provides massive torque and torque-rise performance for superior engine-lugging capability while working heavy loads. Automatic shut-down control is standard equipment on these models to prevent overheating or running low on fluids. Also standard are auto-preheat, job clock and low fuel warning features.

Convenience and Safety
The operator station is designed with the operator in mind, for optimum comfort, visibility and functionality. A wide opening makes it easy to enter and exit. Standard features include a high-back ergonomic and adjustable seat with arm rests. The standard monitor includes an anti-theft system and backlit gauges, switches and LED warning lights. Also included are a digital hour meter, glove-friendly rocker switches and a large LCD panel for easy viewing. The optional power Quik-Tatch(TM) system provides effortless attachment engagement-disengagement from the operator's seat at the push of a button. Standard convenience features include cargo storage for a cell phone and other small items, interior dome lighting, a 12-volt receptacle and a cup holder. For extra comfort, an optional heated cab is available.

An integral, in-seat boom lock - a Deere exclusive - is engaged and disengaged from within the safety of the operator station and can never be lost or misplaced. A triple interlock park brake system ensures the operator is in the seated position with the seat belt engaged prior to machine movement. Spring-applied, hydraulically released wet disk brakes automatically engage anytime the seat belt is unfastened, the operator leaves the seated position, the engine is shut down or the park brake is engaged. And, low, slip-resistant steps in the loader cross tube make it easy to enter and exit the machine.

Low Daily Operating Costs
Several design features keep costs low by ensuring fast and easy machine service. The oil cooler swings out with the hinged rear door for full, easy inspection or cleaning. Engine oil changes are simplified with extended, 500-hour oil change intervals. Both models are equipped with visual hydraulic fluid level checks, resulting in fast, easy and no-mess daily checks.

A low-mounted fuel tank allows easier filling with heavy fuel cans. The patented Quik-Tatch(TM) hitch is the industry's easiest to engage and disengage for the life of the machine. Its rotating pawl mechanism requires no greasing and cleans itself every time it's used. And, a quick-pivoting operator station provides best-in-class, wide-open access to major components - simply remove two nuts and raise the operator station in two minutes or less.

"When designing these machines, we continued to focus on ensuring that they provide maximum uptime," Zupancic said. "These machines are built on the quality of the 300 Series, which features many enhancements and vigorous durability testing."