Is JD getting into the "toolcat" business?

[Builder]

I really would like to have a BC Toolcat for my property & business, but the price is too high for this working stiff.

I was at my JD dealer yesterday and noticed the JD Gators are getting more & more "toolcat-like" everytime I see them. I saw a power broom being mounted on one yesterday and it has a glass cab, too.

I don't mean this as a slight on the Toolcat, I'd love to have one, but would anyone else like to see some competition or think JD will move in this direction? Seems like engineers could take the basic Gator platform and make it adapt to a lot of the same implements.

with JD's "high end" clientele, you'd think they would be hot & heavy into this estate owner type market the Toolcat clearly has a lock on.

Might lower prices and improve the product, too.

 

[dsb5610]

Builder,

I ask periodically when I am at a Deere dealership. So far no one has any knowledge of Deere working on a similar unit. I keep hoping it will happen. Based upon my experience with their products I think Deere would do a good job. Based upon my experience with Bobcat dealers (in comparison to Deere dealerships) I would be 'chompin at the bit' to switch.

I understand what you are saying about the progression of the Gator line but I don't think the Gator would be the platform a Toolcat would be based upon. The Pro-Gator would be closer.

dsb

 

[theoshin]

i have also had very good luck with JD dealerships.

the gator is not anywhere near the tc in terms of work ability. the tc weighs over 5,000lbs with fluids and the gator does not even hit 1500 lbs. the tc can lift the gator in its bucket!

 

[Builder]

I agree the Gator is really just a glorified 4x4 golf cart right now, but the basic engineering is there and you'd think JD would really want to exploit this market.

All the snotty estate owners around here grace their property with JD and JD only.

 

[jmfox]

I think Bobcat's utility vehicle is a better tool format than the gator.What we need is a marriage of a manufacture of rubber conversion systems and the Toolcat. I know Mattracks is currently making systems to fit, but without mass production they are way too expensive. This combination would solve the weight and traction problems and make the Toolcat a worldwide success.

jmf

 

[kude]

Now that Bobcat may be on the block, maybe Deere could pick it up. It beats engineering its own tool carrying/operating unit. There's got to be be more JD dealers around than Bobcat ones.

I'm just guessing here, but Bobcat with Deere dealerships would increase sales. I like my Gator, but I would also like to have the Toolcat because it is all around more useful.