'05 vs '06 HPX

[claykin22]

My friend is looking at an '05 HPX gator, but I am trying to talk him into getting an '06 because it would have the true 4 wheel drive. What other changes did they make between model years. I know I saw someone mention a few changes in a post, but I can't seem to find it again.

The '05 he is looking at is $6000 with 240 hrs, and the '06 is $7100 with 70 hrs. They are both stock base units w/o any big accessories.

 

[Skipholiday]

06 starts easier and steers a little better.

The true on demand 4 wheel drive is worth the difference in price~!

 

[Kahuna]

I have had had both a 05 and 06. I now have traded for the XUV. The 06 is worth the price difference and is a lot better machine than the 05, that is why I traded. The 05 is very cold natured, the 06 has a 4 bypass carberator (whatever that is) but it makes it start so much better. It also has the true 4 wheel drive, a roll cage, 30% better steering, improved brakes and a little less rough suspension. You will not be disappointed.

 

[cef2lion]

Are they gas or diesel? I had an 05 gas an almost traded for the an 06 but decided to wait for the XUV. Things that I looked at in the 06 were already mentioned here. The 4WD, improved steering, and better ride. For me the 06 diesel seemed a bit stronger, quieter, and cleaner. As suggested the 06 would be worth the difference in price.

Craig

 

[Kahuna]

All my gators have been gas. I cannot see the advantage of a diesel for what extra they cost. The gas version does everything I need it to. I make a lot of short trips which is hard on a diesel. I have test driven some and I feel they are loud, vibrate more and you always have that diesel smell. That is good with a tractor but I would rather have the gas on a Gator.

I think some people treat their Gator as they do with their pickup. Few pickups need the diesel but people want them just because they are a diesel, must be the bigger is better syndrome. Actually Deere has done away with the diesel option on the 07 HPX. If you want the diesel now you have to go to the XUV.

 

[claykin22]

Thanks guys, I appreciate the info. Has anyone sold the factory ROPS off their HPX? My friend doesn't think he wants it, and I thought if he could sell it for $200 or so, he would be that much closer on price. Maybe their isn't a market for them, but you would think somebody would want to add it to their older HPX's before they came standard.