HOW TO PERFORM BASIC MAINTENANCE ON YOUR JOHN DEERE GATOR

START WITH THE USER MANUAL
Before you fire up your John Deere Gator it is important to know exactly how your new machine operates. Safety is a major concern when operating powerful machines and there is a lot to know before starting up the engine. Your user manual is a great place to start if you’re unsure with how to operate a Gator.

ENSURE YOUR TIRES ARE IN THE BEST SHAPE
A John Deere Gator drives over some rough terrain so it’s important that your tires are always in the best shape. You can determine their condition by ensuring the tire pressure isn’t too high or low, checking for bubbles and cracks, and making sure there is no rim damage.

CONDUCT A BRAKE CHECK
Brakes on a John Deere Gator are designed to stop quickly and safely in every type of terrain. To keep the brakes reliable, you’ll need to regularly test response time. If you notice that the brakes aren’t as quick to respond as they once were, check the brake pads and fluids. You can keep the brakes clean with a solvent that can be sprayed on and wiped off to protect against wear and damage.

CHANGE YOUR FLUIDS
Oils and filters should be changed after 20 hours of use. When changing oil, make sure to wipe up any spills as it is highly flammable. Old or dirty oil prevents your engine from being properly lubricated or cooled, which can cause it to seize up.

ADJUST THE SHOCKS
If you want your Gator to have the smoothest ride for your conditions, you’ll need to adjust the shocks. Before you begin adjusting, make sure you understand the safety information and safety signals in your operator’s manual. If you’re hauling heavy loads, both the front and rear shocks may need adjustments. If you’re out on the trails, you may want to adjust the shocks for a smoother ride.

• To begin adjusting, park the machine safely and block the tires that won’t be lifted off the ground.
• Raise the machine with a safe lifting device, such as a jack, then lower the machine onto jack stands or other stable support.
• You’ll then need the spanner wrench that is provided with your Gator to adjust the shocks.
• Using the wrench, engage the detent feature between the shock and the collar.
• Rotate the collar on the shock to your desired preload condition. A clockwise rotation makes for a softer ride. A counterclockwise rotation makes for a stiffer ride.
• To ensure your safety and an optimal ride, make sure that both the front preload collars are set to the same position and that both preload collars are set to the same position. You can do this by counting the clicks from one extreme to another.

STORE YOUR EQUIPMENT CORRECTLY
You should store your Gator in an area that is protected from harsh weather and environmental conditions. Rain, snow and extreme temperatures can do some serious damage to any utility vehicle. Locking your Gator in a garage or trailer will protect it from rust, dents and theft.

Choosing a Farm Utility Vehicle: What's the difference between a Gators and an XUV / ATV

If you are looking for a utility vehicle for your acreage, farm or outdoor event, you can choose either a Utility Task Vehicle (UTV), for example John Deere Gator or or an All Terrain Vehicle (ATV).

What is the difference between a Gator or an ATV? A Gator is an all terrain utility vehicle typically featuring a box bed, similar in function to a ute tray. The bed box can also be installed as an tilting dump tray.

The Gator is an improved form of mobility for getting around. Everyday tasks - especially while navigating undulating terrain - is made easier with suspension, aggressive tires and a low centre of gravity for added stability.

Gator Safety A side-by-side vehicle (SSV) such as the Gator is more stable than a quad bike. It comes fitted with a steering wheel, seat belts and rollover protection, and has a higher load capacity. Since 2001, there have been more than 270 deaths in Australia from quad bike incidents. In NSW, there are about two deaths a year (source: SafeWork NSW).

While the ATV (All-terrain vehicle) is an off road vehicle intended for use as a recreational vehicle, preferably used as a racer which covers rough terrain. Quads do not come with safety equipment such as a roll bar as standard.

Choosing a John Deere Gator: from Traditional to Rugged

TRADITIONAL/ WORK MODEL
The traditional John Deere Gator utility vehicles or The Work Series, was built for residential yard work, landscaping tasks, golfcourse upkeep and turf maintenance. These Gators weren’t originally meant for the heavy-duty lifting or hauling we see today, but instead to help ease tedious maintenance and upkeep tasks.

Today, The Work Series is work-site ready and includes models with a low centre of gravity which provides added stability while remaining light on the surface being worked on. These Gators have enough strength to drive over rocks, mud or other unfavourable conditions. All gas and diesel work series models come equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) to help handle all kinds of terrain. Additionally, most of the traditional models come with a deluxe cargo box and pick-up style tailgate for easy cargo storage and transportation. Finally, models in this series also include a standard gas-assist shock, a brake system matched with vehicle load capacity and 12-volt outlets.

HPX615E / HPX815E
The HPX series includes the newest models out of The Work Series, the HPX615E and HPX815E. These models come with a large payload and towing capacity, heavy duty deluxe cargo box, and enhanced 4-wheel suspension. They also include tailgate lights, a 2-in (5 cm) receiver hitch, and an easy-to-dump cargo box with standard gas-assist or optional automatic power lift. These are just a few HPX features that stand out against other models in The Work Series. The HPX models also come with the option of gas or diesel engines and reach a maximum speed of 25 mph. These John Deere Gators have a cargo capacity of over 450 kgs a towing capacity of 590 kgs and a payload capacity of 635 kgs.

Full Size Gator TH 6 x 4
The Gator TH was the first John Deere utility vehicle and has been modified several times since its invention. With its 6-wheel design, the Gator TH is built to haul materials typical of a turf environment such as rakes, shovels, soil, grass clippings, hoses and gravel. This model’s 16.4 cubic foot (0.46 cubic metre) capacity reinforced box includes a gas-assist shock for easier lifting and dumping, pick-up style tailgate, 20 integrated tie-down points and removal composite side panels for flat-bed operation. The Gator TH reaches a maximum speed of 20 mph.

Gator TX 4 x 2
The Gator TX comes with nearly all the same features as the TH, but showcases the conventional 4-wheel design of most utility vehicles. Like the TH, the cargo box includes 16.4 cubic feet of capacity, pick-up style tailgate, 20 tie-down points, a gas-assist shock for easier lifting and dumping, and the ability to convert a flat-bed mode in minutes. Last but not least, the TX can reach a maximum speed of 20 mph.

Gator TS 4 x 2
Despite being John Deere’s most basic utility vehicle, the Gator TS still comes with most of the various functions and features you see in other Gators. This model includes an independent front suspension, differential lock, a light turf footprint and can reach a maximum speed of 20 mph.

Gator TE
The Gator TE is John Deere’s only all-electric vehicle. The 48-volt electrical system provides power to perform evenly all day long with only an overnight charge. This model can haul up to 227 kgs with the same deluxe cargo box you’ll find on the TX and TH- all while giving you the advantage of zero emissions and zero fuel consumption. The TE is extremely quiet and comes with a UL-approved charger that automatically shuts off after reaching full charge. This model reaches a maximum speed of 15 mph.

CROSSOVER UTILITY VEHICLES/ XUV
John Deere decided to take The Work Series to the next level when designing the Gator cross-over utility vehicle. This line is made up of mid- and full-sized XUVs that come in M, R or E models. Designed with multiple scenarios in mind, these Gators are perfect for working, hauling, camping, hunting, fishing and more.

These utility vehicles may be built to work, but they also have operator comfort and safety in mind with an occupant protective structure certified cab, an automotive style dash, safety restraints and LCD screen with LED warning lights. Gator XUVs accommodate 2, 3 or 4 passengers and come with a fully independent suspension and all of the basic features and functionality you can find in The Work Series.

The E models include the most basic functions and features of the XUVs. The M model takes it up a notch with power steering, upgraded plug-and play- wiring and many open station and cab configuration options. The R models are only available for full-sized XUVs and provide luxury features such as premium cloth seats, exclusive tan interior and the quietest cab with heat and A/C in standard equipment.

Compared to The Work Series models, XUVs vary only slightly. With this in mind, let’s take a closer look at what does differ amongst these John Deere Gators.

Mid-Sized XUV590
Available models are the XUV590M, XUV590M special edition (black), XUV590M S4, XUV590E, XUV590E S4. Engine capacity is 4 cycle gas, electronic fuel injection (EFI). Cab can fit 2 or 4 passengers. Max speed is 0-45 mph High Forward, 0-28 mph Low Forward, 0-22 mph Reverse.

Mid-Sized XUV560
Available models are the XUV560E and the XUV560E S4. Engine capacity is 4 cycle gas, dynamically tuned carb. Cab can fit 2 or 4 passengers. Max speed is 0-28 mph High Forward, 0-17 mph Low Forward, 0-20 mph Reverse.

Common Full-Sized XUV Features
Compared to their mid-sized counterparts, the full-sized Gator XUVs pack a little extra punch when it comes to the features. All full-sized XUVs come with an On-demand True 4D System, high ground clearance, automotive style breaking and integrated cargo management. Every 2-and 4-person full-sized XUV offers 680 kgs of towing capacity and 635 kgs of payload capacity. The new three-seaters can also tow up to 900 kgs and have a 680 kg payload capacity. All full-sized XUVs are equipped with a double cargo box that can carry up to 450 kgs. Other notable features include custom-engineered shocks, CVT intake and an advanced digital dash.

XUV825
Available models are the XUV825E, XUV825M and XUV825M. Engine capacity is 4-cycle gas, Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI). Cab can fit 2 or 4 passengers. Max speed is 0-44 High Forward, 0-17 Low Forward, 0-20 mph Reverse.

XUV855
Available models are the XUV855E, XUV855M, XUV855M S4. Engine capacity is 4-cycle diesel – 854cc’s that generate 23 HP. Cab can fit 2 or 4 passengers. Max speed is 0-32 High Forward, 0-15 Low Forward, 0-17 mph Reverse.

The XUV835 and XUV865 are John Deere’s new three-across models, meaning more people can join in on the fun. These models are equipped with powder coat electrostatic paint, high strength steel A-Arms, and integrated winch mount 2-in. (61 cm) front and rear receivers with integrated ridged steel tow hooks.

XUV835E
Available models are the XUV835E, XUV835M, XUV835M with CAB, XUV835M with HVAC and XUV835R. Engine capacity is 4-cycle gas, Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), 54 HP (40 KW). Cab can fit three across. Max speed is 0-45+ High Forward, 0-29 Low Forward, 0-33 mph Reverse.

XUV865
Available models are the XUV865E, XUV865M, XUV865M with CAB, XUV865 with HVAC and XUV865R. Engine capacity is 4-cycle diesel – 854cc’s that generate 23 HP. Cab can fit three across. Max speed is 0-32 High Forward, 0-15 Low Forward, 0-18 mph Reverse.

HIGH-PERFORMANCE UTILITY VEHICLES
The John Deere Gator high-performance utility vehicles were truly created with recreation in mind. Gator RSX models were designed for racing over rough terrain, trail riding and barrelling through wooded areas. They have the gear to back them up with front and rear end suspension along with superior tire traction and a tight turning radius. Gator RSX models emphasise the fun of utility vehicles with higher speeds and performance capabilities.

The RSX takes the Gator family to the next level with instant throttle response, full-locking true 4WD system, electronic ignition, and the top speed of all John Deere Gators. The RXS model can also tow up to 544 kgs. The well-designed cock-pit includes extra legroom and standard 21 in. (53.3cm) deluxe high-back bucket seating with water drain hole and large headrests. The series was built with safety in mind, showcasing features such as full-length underbody skid protection, a fully sealed CVT drive case and high engine, and a roll-over protective structure. The ROPS (roll-over-protective structure) includes automotive 3-pt seatbelts, multiple handholds and SAE, ISO and OSHA ROPS certification.

RSX860E / RSX860M
Available models are the RSX860E and the RSX860M. Engine capacity is 4-cycle gas, Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) – Closed Loop System. Cab can fit two passengers. Max speed is High range 0-60 (0-97), Low range 0-30 (0-48.3).

POPULAR GATOR ATTACHMENTS
John Deere Gator attachments add additional functions, comfort and safety to your utility vehicle.

For The Work Series, the following attachments improve the operator experience and provide additional functionality:

• Rearview mirror
• Horn/light kits
• Blades/Sprayers
• Cargo box power lift kit

For the XUV and RSX, the following attachments add comfort, increase functionality, and enforce safety:

• High-back bucket seats
• Utility carts
• Deluxe cab
• Underseat storage
• Seatbelt comfort strap
• Windshields
• Cargo box wall extensions
• Front hood rack
• Tire options
• Front brush guard
• Rear bumper
• Winch