Like with any manufacturer, John Deere has many different models to suit its customers. When buying a John Deere for fire or rescue use, it's best to look for a model that has at least a 1,000-pound bed capacity. Without this, you're limited to either the QTAC 20S, 40S, EMS-F or EMS-R. An example of a John Deere Gator best suited for fire and rescue work would be the XUV835M. Its bed is 45"L x 52"W x 12"H and holds 1,000 pounds.

One feature of the Polaris bed worth noting is that there are angled plastic gussets/reinforcement molded into the floor at the front of the bed. These ribs keep any flat item from being able to slide all the way to the front of the bed, as they’ll ride up on the gussets. Because of this, most QTACs – except for the 20S and 40S – need to be placed on forklift runners in order to clear the ribs and fit well within the tailgate.

One feature of the Polaris Ranger that is very helpful is the adjustable rear suspension position. Along with spring preload, there are three available rear suspension positions on most Polaris Rangers. The position that places the shock in the most vertical position is the best when carrying a load. If this position isn’t used, you’ll notice the rear of the UTV sagging when the bed is nearing its weight capacity.

Some John Deere Gators have side rails used to strap cargo to. If the QTAC you’re purchasing has a patient transport that overhangs the bed, make sure the clearance is sufficient to fit over the hand rails.

The TH series doesn’t come with a ROPS (Roll Over Protection System), so we don’t typically recommend it over the HPX or XUV series.