John Deere Gators™ are very popular pieces of equipment for those looking to tackle jobs on the worksite, farm, or ranch, as well as those looking for a little added thrill in their lives.
Deciding to buy a Gator might be an easy decision, but determining the best model for your needs could be slightly more difficult. In this guide, we’ve provided a short list of factors that should be considered when buying a Gator Utility Vehicle, including:
- Terrain
- Hauling Capabilities
- Speed
- Power Source
- Number of Passengers
Terrain
John Deere Gators are designed to take on a wide variety of terrain, but certain models are optimized for specific conditions and landscapes. When entering the buying process, think about the property or types of terrain the machine will primarily be used on. Deciding if the Gator will be used on smooth, rough, or rolling land will help steer you in the right direction from the onset.
Deere’s Gator models come available in 2WD, 4WD and 6X4 options. The 2WD models are best-suited for jobs that will be done in mild conditions like light snow or mud. 4WD and 6X4 Gators should be purchased if harsher conditions are expected on a regular basis, like snow, heavy mud, or sand. The 4WD and 6X4 options are able to handle tough conditions without sacrificing productivity.
Hauling Capabilities
Another benefit offered by John Deere Gators is their ability to haul. Much like determining what type of terrain will be crossed, Gator buyers should think about the common shapes and sizes of their loads.
If you are handling less than 400 lbs. of material, any Gator model can be a fit. However, the options start to narrow slightly once you get up over 400 lbs. If you will be handling oddly-shaped or very large objects, you will want to think about looking at Gator models that have flatbeds.
Speed
“Utility” is an important word when talking about John Deere Gators. While they may be used primarily for work, they can also be an excellent source of entertainment or competition thanks to a variety of higher-speed options.
About half of Deere’s Gator options travel at speeds less than 25 mph. These are good selections with those looking to primarily use their machines to get jobs done. However, more than half of their options can travel more than 25 mph, with a handful that can be revved up to 40 mph. These high-speed options are great for those looking to get a little more thrill out of their investment.
Power Source
The majority of Deere’s Gators are gas powered. However, they do also offer diesel options and one electrically-powered model, the TE 4×2. The diesel engine Gators are great options for those tasks that will require a bit more torque, while the gas and electronic versions are best for a blend of routine tasks and pleasure.
Number of Passengers
Now that you have your selection narrowed down, it’s time to think about your friends. Specifically, how many of them you’d like to bring along on your Gator adventure. Every John Deere Gator model allows for one passenger, while the 550 S4, XUV 825i S4 and XUV 855D S4 all provide an extra row of seating for even more people to enjoy the ride.
Locate your local John Deere dealer today to begin the Gator buying process!
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