The John Deere 310SJ loader backhoe has a John Deere 4045 turbocharged engine producing 92 horsepower (HP). It has a powershift transmission. It comes standard with on-board diagnostics with a multi-language digital monitor, a single self-adjusting serpentine belt, ground accessible service points, 10 adjustable work lights, and an outer-box extendable dipper stick designed to keep material out of the greased part of the dipper stick and a serrated edge to allow for easier material clamping. It is also available with optional limited-slip mechanical front wheel drive.

The 310SJ has an operating weight of 14,430 pounds (6,545 kg), backhoe digging depth of 14.5 feet (4.4 m), loader breakout force of 11,160 lbs (5,062 kg), and loader lift capacity of 7,419 lbs (3,365 kg).

The total machine control (TMC) version has an operating weight of 17,937 lbs (8,136 kg) and a deeper backhoe digging depth of 14.9 ft (4.5 m).

The tool carrier (TC) version has an operating weight of 19,000 lbs (8,618 kg), backhoe digging depth of 18.4 ft (4.4 m), loader breakout force of 11,450 lbs (5,193 kg), and loader lift capacity of 7,215 lbs (3,272 kg).