4x6 Gator - 250 hours - what to look for?

[fishpick]

Looking at a used 4x6 gator with about 250 hours on it. Price seems good but since i'm new to this breed of machine wondered what things I should be looking for in terms of mechanicals that could be an issue at this age. Also what are the signs of wear and abuse?

The unit itself is in very clean condition - no significant dings or scratches. Even the floor boards look basically new.

Figure there's gotta be some common issues with a 4x6 that I can look for on inspection.

Thanks in advance!

 

[MrChris]

Looking at a used 4x6 gator with about 250 hours on it. Price seems good but since i'm new to this breed of machine wondered what things I should be looking for in terms of mechanicals that could be an issue at this age. Also what are the signs of wear and abuse?

The unit itself is in very clean condition - no significant dings or scratches. Even the floor boards look basically new.

Figure there's gotta be some common issues with a 4x6 that I can look for on inspection.

Thanks in advance!

I have an '06 TH 4x6 with1275hrs on it. No major issues,just general maintenance. The newer TH models are air cooled engines. Check condition of drive belt and both clutches. Check how easily it shifts between F and R when at idle. Take notice on how smoothly it accelerates from a stop and how well it comes to a stop. Check drive chains for condition and tension. Of course check fluid levels and color quality before you start the vehicle. These machines can run a long time as long as they have been maintained properly. Checking "under the hood" should give you a good indication of this. Good luck!

 

[fishpick]

I have an '06 TH 4x6 with1275hrs on it. No major issues,just general maintenance. The newer TH models are air cooled engines. Check condition of drive belt and both clutches. Check how easily it shifts between F and R when at idle. Take notice on how smoothly it accelerates from a stop and how well it comes to a stop. Check drive chains for condition and tension. Of course check fluid levels and color quality before you start the vehicle. These machines can run a long time as long as they have been maintained properly. Checking "under the hood" should give you a good indication of this. Good luck!

MrChris - thanks. I have a bunch of people tell me to check "both clutches". And on the second clutch look for little plastic things in there... I'm not sure I know what to look for or where. But that could be because I am just completely new to the whole Gator thing.
Appreciate the feedback.

 

[MrChris]

With only 250 hours on the unit, I can't imagine a lot of wear on this machine unless it was seriously abused which it doesn't sound like. Do you know what mfg year it is? If it's the older water cooled engine? You might do better to check things that might be more affected by the unit sitting than being over driven. Like dry rot tires, fouled spark plugs, water in oil and trans fluids from condensation, corrosion at battery terminals, etc.There's also a very informative JD Gator section at tractorpoint.com if you want to find a lot more info about typical service issues with these critters.