I'm going to buy a new 825i. How would you buy your gator if you bought new today?

[oregonfj]

Hi,
I have finally decided that I am going to buy a new gator. I know what I want but not sure if I should buy it "done" (accessorized through the Deere) or buy a "stripped down model" and buy after market accessories.
I plan to buy the Deere 825I, Camo. Here is how I'd like it set up.
Power steering... Is this option worth the extra $1100 dollars?
Power and protection package. Is the power tilt worth the ~$1200 ($1438 - front protection kit/floor mats). I plan on hauling firewood, but never thought much about the power tilt.
Alloy wheels with Maxxis tires
Seat... Not decided. Probably either the standard buckets or bench.
windshield.
roof (I really like the diamond plate roof Harry Ferguson installed)
rear screen
front and rear protection packages.
Any other "must haves"

Think that about covers it. Please comment on one or all of the options I have listed. I'd like to know how you like the option and if you would buy it again or buy it aftermarket.
Thanks in advance,
Steve

[Bunky]

A lot depends on where you will be using it..

power steering - if you can afford it get it especially if you drive tight trails, haul trailers and want to back up, drive rough surfaces (prevents steering wheel kick off)

power dumper - have not needed it. I had the bed loaded with logs and was able to dump it.

CV joint protectors - must have since sticks get caught in undercarriage

protection packages front and rear - if you drive in tight areas, hit brush, etc. then will save a plastic fender or back lights

roof with glass windshield - a must for me since some protection from elements and I wanted a windshield that would not scratch

Rear screen - good for protection from stuff in rear coming forward but does hurt rear view some

side mirrors - I got after market ones

work lights - front and rear depends if you need to use after dark

driving lights - the stock headlights will likely need an upgrade for driving...n

seats - I like the high back sport seats but definitely personal preference

tires - I got the upgraded tires. they road a little better than stock, reasonably turf friendly on dry ground

winch - depends on needs. I have used mine more for pulling down trees, etc since I have not got stuck yet. The front/rear mount option for it gives most flexibility.

[DIXIEDOG]

I would get power steering
Maxxis Bighorns
Front protection with dump (I use mine a lot and it works great)
CV guards
Rear bumper and protection rails
Poly roof (It makes a huge difference on sunny days)
Sport buckets (They are pretty comfy seats and with the shifter setup you can't run 3 wide even with the bench)

If you're not set on camo the olive/black combo is nice and the accessories look much better in my opinion. I didn't care for the camo 825i after I saw one with a roof....just not my favorite. The olive/black is a bit cheaper too if I remember right.:hdscrh:

Only thing I wish mine had is power steering, unfortunately it wasn't an option in 12' when I bought mine.:Bnghd:

[oregonfj]

Bunky and Dixiedog,
Thanks for the replies.
You both posted a few things I hadn't considered. I will surely get the guarding for cv joints. I will probably get the power steering (I was on the fence about this more than any other option). I will look at the high back buckets. I will also look at the olive green paint, I haven't seen this color at our local dealership. I will likely pass on the power tilt, I have a good sized tractor for heavier stuff. I will surely guard it up pretty well (I will be using it on my tree farm, tight trails and trees). I wasn't sure if there were great aftermarket options that were should be considered.
If anyone else has ideas I'd appreciate the input. I have some time before I buy.
Steve

[Bunky]

I like the olive and black with black wheels.

This was taken a little over a year ago.

https://angphoto.smugmug.com/Other/Gator-1/i-XQP4Grg/0/X3/IMG_0001-1-X3.jpg

[Skillet23]

http://www.johndeeregatorforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=3356&stc=1

That's my Gator as it sits now.

I went with an aftermarket top and windshield from Fortress ATV ($1000 combined cost). At the bottom of the windshield there is a panel that can be removed to allow for air flow on warmer days. I went with these due to the fact that they are metal and the windshield is automotive glass (we stand on the top of our buggies to fill deer feeders and drive through a lot of cedar that likes to hang on stuff).

As far as lights, I just buy fog lights from WalMart for additional lighting in the front and back ($20). The green lights in the cab are from AutoZone ($10) (little strip led lights with adhesive on the back). I purchase marine grade switches from Ace Hardware that fit in the provide slots ($9).

http://www.johndeeregatorforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=2696&d=1380207158

Spend the money on powersteering. Wish they offered it when I purchased my Gator they didn't so I installed a "trucker's knob" on mine to assist with steering the rocky hills on the Texas Hill Country.

David in TX

[Bunky]

http://www.johndeeregatorforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=2664&d=1379293130

That's my Gator as it sits now.


Did you forget the link to the image?

[oregonfj]

Thanks David,
I was hoping I would see some input from people that chose aftermarket rather than Deere and how they liked them.
I'd like to see a pic if you can post.
Funny, all you guys that replied are olive green and black so far.
Steve

[BillT]

Welcome Steve,
First off, sounds like you've done the research, consider both John Deere & aftermarket options. Whatever works best for you.


1) Power Steering is worth the factory install price, if you don't want to tackle it yourself as an after market option. The 825i has very little space in the front hood area, so get the Power Steering from the factory.

2) You say you plan on hauling firewood so spend the money on the Rear Tail light Protectors BM22773 (https://www.shopgreendealer.com/John-Deere-Gator-Brake-and-Taillight-Protector-BM22773.html) & a rear bumper either John Deere Brand or aftermarket. Add some extra screening to the Rear tail light protectors if you're handy.
Consider the Deluxe Cargo Box with Polyurea Liner, Steel will dent really fast. Do you have dogs? They'll want to ride I bet, consider a 4 x 6 x 3/4" mat (https://www.tractorsupply.com/tsc/product/rubber-mat-black-4-ft-x-6-ft) for the cargo bed from Tractor Supply. Cheaper then JD, but better for hauling wood & dogs. About $120 from JD, $40 from Tractor Supply.

3) If you're riding in tight trails, consider steel wheels. Steel cost less & won't scratch like the alloy. I know someone whom scratched the alloy wheels on their UTV the 1st day they had it. Was very unhappy for days afterward.

4) Seats, consider how many people in your family or whom you ride with & then decide. A lot of folks say the bench is useless for a 3rd person because of where the shifting lever is. I bought the sport seats & aftermarket covers. Oh yeah, consider seat covers, I got mine from Gilmore's Camo & really like them. JD doesn't offer covers for the bench or sport seats at all. https://www.ebay.com/usr/gillmores-ca...p2047675.l2559 (https://www.ebay.com/usr/gillmores-camo?_trksid=p2047675.l2559)


5) Roof is a must, remember it might rain or snow, Limbs might fall, or you could get sun stroke if not careful . Consider add on options you may want to add to the roof later, i.e. lights too.


5)Windshield, John Deere's cost is about $1100.00 for the full glass windshield w/ wiper. The washer tank & spray noozle are $300 extra. Look for an aftermarket. Again, if you'll ride in tight spaces poly or "non-scratch" poly will be difficult to see through after awhile. Get the glass now & save money later. Glass can be repaired or replace if damaged or broke down the road, whereas poly gets scratched over time & is difficult to fix.

6) Rear Screen, well you're hauling wood so be mindful, rear screen doesn't keep the weather out. Another option maybe more appropriate. But then again, no glass to break by accident.

7) I agree with Bunky, Front & Rear Protection if you think you need it. CV Protectors are great, better than the plastic that is stock.

8) Upgrade the stock headlights with something other than what JD put in if you'll use it at night. I also use aftermarket accessory LED lights from Rigid Industries LED (https://www.rigidindustries.com/), an American company. The SRQ-2's listed in my signature below, fit the Factory Roof like they're made for it & work well I've set them to face behind the Gator. My brother uses Tuff LED lights (https://tuffledlights.com/) which work well too. You can add accessory lights later if needed, John Deere's lights fit but are expensive. LEDS are the way to go.

9) Will you be cutting the wood too? If felling or cording the wood, many people including me, have added the Superwinch Terra 45 to their machine, Amazon.com has the best price & synthetic rope is a nice choice. Haul logs, pull hanging trees out of the canopy or get yourself unstuck. If you can add it yourself you save money on John Deere's build your Gator page, it is charges $588.50 for the Warn 3500 lbs or $695.50 for the 4500 installed.

[Skillet23]

Pic showing in original post now?

[Bunky]

Pic showing in original post now?

Yes.

[Bunky]

For aftermarket accessories, I added:

1. Seizmik mirrors - really nice
2. Superwinch Terra 45
3. Silent Rider sound muffler
4. Seat covers for the nice JD seats
5. Koplin Rhino grips - not the same ratchet style that JD re-sells

[RMOSSSO1]

Only mistake I made on trading my 2011 Gator on a 2015 is the half windshield. The 2011 half, had a flip up on the bottom of the windshield. The 2015 has to removed the windshield to get to the storage compartment in the front, which is insane.:mad::mad::mad:

[oregonfj]

Only mistake I made on trading my 2011 Gator on a 2015 is the half windshield. The 2011 half, had a flip up on the bottom of the windshield. The 2015 has to removed the windshield to get to the storage compartment in the front, which is insane.:mad::mad::mad:
I will look at this at the local dealer.
Thanks.

[oregonfj]

Welcome Steve,
First off, sounds like you've done the research, consider both John Deere & aftermarket options. Whatever works best for you.
1) Power Steering is worth the factory install price, if you don't want to tackle it yourself as an after market option. The 825i has very little space in the front hood area, so get the Power Steering from the factory.

2) You say you plan on hauling firewood so spend the money on the Rear Tail light Protectors BM22773 (http://www.shopgreendealer.com/John-Deere-Gator-Brake-and-Taillight-Protector-BM22773.html) & a rear bumper either John Deere Brand or aftermarket. Add some extra screening to the Rear tail light protectors if you're handy.
Consider the Deluxe Cargo Box with Polyurea Liner, Steel will dent really fast. Do you have dogs? They'll want to ride I bet, consider a 4 x 6 x 3/4" mat (http://www.tractorsupply.com/tsc/product/rubber-mat-black-4-ft-x-6-ft) for the cargo bed from Tractor Supply. Cheaper then JD, but better for hauling wood & dogs. About $120 from JD, $40 from Tractor Supply.

3) If you're riding in tight trails, consider steel wheels. Steel cost less & won't scratch like the alloy. I know someone whom scratched the alloy wheels on their UTV the 1st day they had it. Was very unhappy for days afterward.

4) Seats, consider how many people in your family or whom you ride with & then decide.


5) Roof is a must, remember it might rain or snow or you could get sun stroke if not careful without it. Consider add on options you may want to add to the roof later, i.e. lights.


5)Windshield, John Deere's cost is about $1000.00 for the full glass windshield. Look for an aftermarket. Again, if you'll ride in tight spaces poly or "non-scratch" poly will be difficult to see through after awhile. Get the glass now & save money later.

6) Rear Screen, well you're hauling wood so be mindful, rear screen doesn't keep the weather out. Another option maybe more appropriate. But then again, no glass to break by accident.

7) I agree with Bunky, Front & Rear Protection if you think you need it. CV Protectors are great, better than the plastic that is stock.

8) Upgrade the stock headlights with something other than what JD put in if you'll use it at night. I also use aftermarket accessory LED lights from Rigid Industries LED (http://www.rigidindustries.com/), an American company. The SRQ-2's listed in my signature below, fit the Factory Roof like they're made for it & work well I've set them to face behind the Gator. My brother uses Tuff LED lights (http://tuffledlights.com/) which work well too. You can add accessory lights later if needed, John Deere's lights fit but are expensive. LEDS are the way to go.

9) Will you be cutting the wood too? If felling or cording the wood, many people including me, have added the Superwinch Terra 45 to their machine, Amazon.com has the best price & synthetic rope is a nice choice. Haul logs, pull hanging trees out of the canopy or get yourself unstuck. If you can add it yourself you save money.



Thanks Bill T.
Great info. Just what I was looking for....
Steve

[Bunky]

Only mistake I made on trading my 2011 Gator on a 2015 is the half windshield. The 2011 half, had a flip up on the bottom of the windshield. The 2015 has to removed the windshield to get to the storage compartment in the front, which is insane.:mad::mad::mad:

I do not have that issue on my 2013 so I wonder if they changed the windshield or the storage compartment door?

[RMOSSSO1]

They changed the window. NO flip up near the storage compartment. Can you imagine if an automobile dealer would cause you to take out the windshield to open the glove box. For saving maybe 10 bucks they lost me as a customer, forever. AND, I just bot a new KUBOTA SVL 75-2 because of my dealings with JD.

[BillT]

Steve, sometimes we forget to ask ourselves these basic questions, sit & make a list of anything you'll use the Gator for, add anything you think of to the list. Can this machine do that & what accessory do you need to do the job? Ask the questions below of yourself & I don't mean to scare you with these -----


Will your wife/girlfriend, children or dogs be using it? Should you let them drive it? Do children need to take an ATV course in order to drive this.
Do family or friends have a UTV or ATV, who will you ride with? What do they use theirs for? This is a good indicator of what you'll be using your machine for.
How will you use it, is this a tool for work or is it a recreational machine or both?
What are Oregon's laws about UTVs. Can you register it as an ATV / Off Road Vehicle or for on road use? In New York State, I can not register it as an ATV yet & will be ticketed for an unregistered vehicle if pulled over riding on road or trail. At present,I use it on my property or trailer it.
What is the cost of insurance, call your insurance company & ask about it before spending $12,000 plus on this
What do you need on it from the factory? Sport seats are a from factory option only I believe.
John Deere sells items for premium prices, so what can you buy aftermarket & put on the machine that is as good or better than what John Deere wants to sell you? i.e. roof, windshield, cab, bumpers, winch. Use the Gator Attachments or Aftermarket Dealers catalogs for ideas.
What do you want to put on the machine that you plan on adding in 6 months or a year? i.e. lights, Rhino Grips, full or particle cab, heater etc...
You mentioned you have a tree farm, so I'd guess you have somewhere to store it out of the weather? Leaving it outside will fade the color & beat up on the seats, & poly windshield, which I've suggested you don't purchase. Will you be storing it for extended periods, i.e. during the winter? Where will you put it? Is the storage space heated? It should be.
Do you own a trailer big enough for it? You can't always burrow 1 from a friend, they may be using it that weekend. The gator is62 inches --5ft 2 inches-- wide & 116 inches --9 ft 8 inches-- long. It weights 1649 pounds before adding bumpers, roof, winch, windshield ect... If you think you might trailer it, you have to think about this cost too. Do you have a vehicle to tow it, think at least a 6 ft x 12ft trailer size with of 1 ton capacity.
If you are thinking about using this for snow removal, the machine has no PTO & you'll have to buy either a plow blade or snowblower w/ it's own engine. The machine needs to thaw out between uses too.
If using this during the Winter, consider a heater. Someone I know bought the aftermarket Firestorm cab heater & loves it. Costs about $400 - $600 depending on model, compared to JD price of $800 plus. And with the JD model, you lose the glove box space.

[oregonfj]

Great points Bill!
I appreciate all the points you raise. I think all of the questions you ask should be answered by all who are buying a machine such as this.
We are lucky here on the west side of Oregon. We have a pretty mild climate with temps rarely dropping below freezing. We rarely get snow, I kinda wish we got more! I've watched videos on snow plowing snow with a gator. I'd never sleep!!!!
Steve

[DIXIEDOG]

They are excellent for snow removal :BG:

http://i583.photobucket.com/albums/ss273/CNC9999/DSCF0840_zps0f71c71a.jpg (http://s583.photobucket.com/user/CNC9999/media/DSCF0840_zps0f71c71a.jpg.html)

[oregonfj]

I appreciate all of the comments from everyone. After all of the input... I finally went into my local dealership to look at the the different options and "test drive" them around the lot.
Wouldn't you know... He was sold out of everything. He had a big push on them over the past couple weeks and wont be getting any more in until next week.
We had a lengthy conversation... I have bought stuff through this dealer in the past, tractors, implements, etc. Knowing me, he thought I should consider the diesel version, 855d instead of the gas, 825i. His biggest reasoning was fuel consumption in the diesel vs gas. He thought I would be unhappy with the fuel consumption of the gas rig over the diesel. I'm not getting a strong arm sale from him, He just thinks in the end I'd be happier with the diesel.
To be honest, I never gave the diesel too much thought, mostly because of the the 1200 premium in price for the diesel engine over the gas. I'm not sure I want to lose that top speed of the gas over diesel either.
I have a bit of time to mull this over... What are your guys thoughts.
Thanks again.
Steve

[DIXIEDOG]

My thoughts are if you don't mind less power go diesel....if you want the thing to have more power for pulling, pushing and playing go the 825i it's not just faster it has more power all the way around. It is harder on fuel, mine nets around 18 mpg so I'm sure the diesel does better.

[oregonfj]

Thanks for the reply Dixiedog,
I really hadn't thought much about the fuel consumption before the dealer mentioned it. One thing that makes diesel intriguing, I pack ~100 gallons of red dyed diesel on my pickup all of the time.

Steve

[jcummins]

I had a Teryx before my 855D. I was constantly running to town to get gas for that thing. One of the reasons I went diesel since I had a tank. Do I miss the extra power and speed?...occasionally. But most of the time I'm going slow...to look at things. The diesel works for me.

[oregonfj]

Went into dealer again today. They got a 2015 855d in, pretty much fully loaded. Full deluxe cab with windows/doors, bench seat, power steering, wheels tires, power tilt, guarding front and rear, etc. We took it for a spin around the lot and a little off-road... I was impressed. More pep than I thought it would have. It was a little loud inside the cab with everything closed up. The diesel seemed to resonate in the cab. It is a New/used model, 70 ish hours, green/yellow. They want $18,500 for it. I wouldn't have ordered one this loaded, but intriguing. I think he was making me a pretty good deal on the pricing.
They didn't have a 825I in yet.

[willber11]

I would stay with the 825i. My cousin has the 855D and it has a much different feel to it. Now, like DIXIEDOG said, if you don't care about the fact that you will have a little less power and speed to do stuff with, then go with the diesel. I have a gas and highly recommend it.

[Copperhead]

Was talking with my JD dealer today and they sell 10 825i's for every 1 855D they sell and even have some trade in their 855D's for 825i's. They don't recommend the diesel. And this is in farm territory where the majority of these UTV's are used by rural folks and farmers who use these as working machines. Just a thought.

Why I was there? Was discussing buying a 825i. He is going to bring one out to the house Friday and let me roll around with it on the property and see how I like it. They have a bunch of them that were used as Demo vehicles at the State Fair in August, and are deeply discounting price on them and offering full factory warranties. Nothing with more than 40 hrs on it. Timing is everything.

[200mph]

Curious how big of a discount they are giving on these units.

[Copperhead]

Will find out on Monday. JD dealer brought one out to my place today and dropped it off and said to play with it over the weekend and see how I like it. Now that is a dealer! Will negotiate on Monday and see how the price lays out. The one he brought out is a pretty decent setup with all the protection stuff, power box, PS, and spoke wheels with Bighorn tires. Took it for a quick ride right when he dropped it off and jumped some farm terraces and tore up some cornfield. I think I will like getting one. If I get one of these discounted demo units, I am also getting them to put in the cab heater and full windshield. Not interested in the expensive deluxe cab. Going to get framed canvas doors (with windows!) and back panel for winter use from aftermarket source. This one will have to act as the primary snow mover for our long circular driveway, with the wife having to do a lot of it when I am out on the semi truck so I can get in the drive when I get home. Might even have to make a path to the highway occasionally about a mile away. Sometimes the county takes days to get out and plow our gravel road after a big snow.