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Buying a utility vehicle is a lot like buying a tractor. Size is important and at times, more is better.
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Buying Tips
Decide whether it will be a people mover, tool cart or material mover
Size the unit to the job
Look for a versatile unit — one that handles attachments or tool boxes
Removable tops make hauling chips or clippings easier
Larger units have dumping beds
Hilly locales require more horse power
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"Really, it depends on the user's business," says Tim Koch, manager for the Toro utility vehicle business. "But I'd err on the high end."
Buyers who expect to need 500 lbs. of hauling capacity probably will need at least that. If they expect to use a couple of attachments, they'll probably end up using more.
"The big difference between a utility vehicle and a tractor is that a utility vehicle is made to transport humans, too," Koch says.
In the Northeast, if the unit is large enough, it is easy to add a rotary snow broom to remove snow. Almost all utility vehicles can handle sprayers and materials spreading.
Koch says that most manufacturers' utility vehicles are built on a heavy duty chassis, with solid hydraulics on the larger ones. "Even if you're handling a ton of dirt or stone, a utility vehicle is as tough as a tractor."
But the tractor is specifically built for work, not hauling people. "If you are looking at a blend of jobs, a utility vehicle is the better choice," he says.
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Toro
The Toro Mid-Duty Workman 2100 has up to 1,650 lbs. total capacity. Powered by a 16-hp Briggs & Stratton engine, it sits on the exclusive Active In-Frame Suspension. The redesigned Heavy Duty model's rugged, long bed design has up to 2,725 lbs. of capacity. Both models provide good operator comfort, easily accessible controls, more value and a cutting edge design. For more information contact Toro at 800/344-8676 or www.torosports.com.
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Bobcat
IntelliTrak drive system on the 4x4 Bobcat 2200 makes it the only vehicle in its class equipped with automatic locking differentials that engage immediately when a wheel loses traction. It is available with either a 20-hp Honda gas or 20-hp Kubota diesel engine. All-terrain tires are standard, with mud tires also available on both models. Vehicle has a 1,200-lb. vehicle load capacity and comes standard with an 800-lb. cargo box capacity with 33-in. loading height. 1,100-lb. cargo box and electric box dump are available as options. For more information contact Bobcat at 888/922-TURF or www.bobcat.com.
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IHI
The IC-30-2 Crawler Carrier has a maximum payload of 5,511 lbs. Its bed holds 1.6 cubic yards, heaped. Available from Compact Excavator Sales, it runs on tracks so ground pressure is just 7.7 psi, fully loaded. Unit runs at 6.8 mph, powered by a 46-hp Kubota diesel and has a 2-speed manual hydrostatic transmission. For more information contact IHI at 800/538-1447 or www.ihicompactexcavator.com.
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John Deere
Four new Gator models include the Gator TS, Gator TX, Gator TX Turf and Gator TH 6x4. The Gator TX Turf, with its quiet foot pedal operation, turf-friendly tires and increased comfort, meets the needs of turf care pros. It is equipped with a new 13-hp, 401-cc Kawasaki FJ400 engine, all-wheel suspension and all-wheel hydraulic disc brakes. Pedal-start design allows for the convenient start/stop use typical of turf care usage. All-wheel suspension, 3-in.-longer wheelbase, 44-in.-long cargo box with a 600-lb. capacity and an overall 1,000-lb. payload/towing capacity. For more information contact John Deere at 800/537-8233 or www.deere.com.
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Kawasaki
The Kawasaki Mule 610 is a 4x4 utility vehicle that can fit into the bed of a full-size pickup. Has 400-lb. bed capacity, 1,100-lb. towing with optional hitch. With a 401-cc single-cylinder engine, continuously variable transmission, dual-mode differential and sealed brakes, it can go up to 25 mph. Has independent front and swing-frame rear suspension. For more information contact Kawasaki at 800/538-1447 or www.kawasaki.com.
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Koyker
The Raptor 1000M (PDF, 136k) and 4000M (PDF, 136k) (pictured) both feature 16-hp, 4-cycle B&S gas engines. The 4000 has shift-on-the-go 4WD. Each offers 14.6 cubic ft. capacity and 1,000-lb. payload. The 1000 has fully independent, transverse leaf spring suspension while the 4000 has McPherson-type struts. For more information contact Koyker at 800/456-1107 or www.koykermfg.com.
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Land Pride
Treker Series vehicles are available in narrow or wide stance. They have capacity for two full-sized passengers with a total 950 lbs. (NT model) or 1,300 lbs. payload (ST model) in the dumping box. Powered by a 20-hp Honda engine. Smaller 4200ATR has 13-hp engine and limited cargo space. For more information contact Land Pride at 888/987-7433 or www.landpride.com.
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Polaris
The Polaris Ranger has a 1,500-lb. payload and 1,500-lb. towing capacity. Its top road speed is 40 mph. It offers on-demand, true all-wheel drive. Ranger is available either as a 6x6, 4x4 or 2x4 model. The 6x6 claims to be the largest capacity and highest traction utility vehicle ever built. Pallet-sized cargo box has multiple tie-down points and mounting holes that accept a variety of accessories. Available with a cab. For more information contact Polaris at 800/POLARIS or www.polarisindustries.com.
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Attachments and Accessories
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Agri-Fab, Inc.
Agri-Fab manufactures a wide range of attachments for ATVs and tractors. The company's Category-1 3-point hitch, 52-in. disc cultivator attachment for ATVs breaks up dirt clods and tills soil for seedbed preparation and chemical incorporation. The 45-0356 features twelve 11-in. disks, a weight tray and disc angle adjustment from 0 to 20 degrees. The company also offers a 45-0359 Grader Blade/Box Scraper for light landscaping, driveway maintenance or snow removal. It has four scarifier teeth and a weight tray capable of handling 160 lbs. The 45-0353 3-point trailer is required for both products. For more information contact Agri-Fab at 217/728-8388 or www.agri-fab.com.
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Northern Tool & Equipment
Utility vehicle covers offer rugged, all-weather protection for units often left outside. Fits machines including the Deere Gator, Polaris Ranger, Kawasaki Mule and others. Elastic cord along entire bottom gives snug fit. Available for units with or without roll bars. For more information contact Northern Tool & Equipment at 800/556-7885 or www.landpride.com.
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Swisher
The UTV Universal Mounting System allows users to change quickly between various Swisher accessories. Works like the ATV system. Requires a 2x2 front receiver on the UTV, a Universal Receiver Mount Kit, and any of Swisher's accessories. Universal Mount System and accessories are available separately. Kit includes a winch mount, receiver step and accessory attachment mount. 62-in. super duty plow blade available. Accessories can be attached and detached in seconds, by pulling a single pin. For more information contact Swisher at 800/222-8183 or www.swisherinc.com
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