John Deere 485 Backhoe The Heavy-Duty Legend You Didn’t Know You Needed
John Deere 485 Backhoe The Heavy-Duty Legend You Didn't Know You Needed
John Deere 485 Backhoe The Heavy-Duty Legend You Didn’t Know You Needed
“Sometimes, all you need is a big green beast that doesn’t flinch when things get tough.”
— Every backhoe operator, probably.
When it comes to digging deep (literally and metaphorically), the John Deere 485 Backhoe isn’t just a piece of equipment — it’s an icon. Whether you’re trenching, planting, breaking ground, or just pretending you’re in a construction-themed rock band, the 485 backhoe makes you feel like you’re in control of a small, earth-moving planet.

Why the 485 Backhoe Rocks (And Digs)
Let’s break down why this particular model is a certified beast:
Performance That Punches Through
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12-foot digging depth — Get to the roots of any problem.
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Hydraulic power that doesn’t stutter under pressure.
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Quick-attach system — Because who has time for complicated setups?
Compatibility Galore
If you’ve got a compact or utility tractor from the 4000 or 5000 John Deere series, you’re in luck. The 485 fits like a glove and works like it was born to do so.
Real-World Features That Matter
Let’s be real: no one buys a backhoe because it looks pretty. You buy it to work. Here’s what actually matters when the rubber meets the dirt:
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Stabilizers – Like a bulldog on all fours. Total stability.
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Heavy-duty bucket – You could dig the Grand Canyon with this thing.
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Ergonomic controls – You’re not flying a spaceship. It should be simple. And it is.
“It handles like a dream, digs like a nightmare — the good kind.”
— Review from an actual operator in Nebraska
A Smart Investment?
Oh, absolutely.
Not just for farmers. Not just for contractors. But for anyone who wants to own their landscape, backyard, or build a mountain where there wasn’t one before. It’s low-maintenance, easy to repair, and backed by that big green John Deere name.

Who’s It For?
Here’s a quick checklist:
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DIY homesteaders
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Farm bosses
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Construction startups
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Land artists with a vision (and a need to dig)
Want to know how this backhoe compares to others? Check out our tractor comparison guide next!
Specs You’ll Want to Drool Over
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Digging Depth | 12 ft. 1 in. |
| Swing Arc | 180 degrees |
| Bucket Dig Force | 3,654 lbs. |
| Reach from Center | 156 inches |
| Transport Height | 90.5 inches |
| Weight | Approx. 1,475 lbs. |
Final Scoop
So, is the John Deere 485 Backhoe worth it? If you like power, performance, and a piece of machinery that earns its keep every day — then yeah, it totally is.
“Buy it once, dig forever.” — The unofficial slogan we just made up



