Mower roundup: Ferris adds new entry-level commercial mower

Updated Nov 23, 2017
Photo: FerrisPhoto: Ferris

The new Ferris 400S is a commercial grade zero-turn mower that comes with an entry-level price according to the company.

The 400S features a 5.5-gallon fuel tank, a foot-operated deck lift and a fabricated steel/tubular bumper that accepts a Ferris tow/hitch kit. Accessories such as a mulch kit, trailer hitch kit, light kit and collection system are available.

It also has the patented external oil filter, the Hydro-Gear ZT-2800, for easy maintenance. An independent, large rear progressive coil-over-shock suspension improves the ride along with 20-inch drive tires and 10-inch caster tires.

“At an entry level price point of $4,299, it’s an easy way for owner/operators to start and grow their landscape business,” said Dan Roche, marketing director for commercial products. “The 400S includes many of the attributes of our higher-end commercial offerings – ergonomic seats with armrests, commercial-grade spindle bearings, rear suspension and large fuel capacity – at a cost that won’t break the bank.”

Landscapers can choose between a Briggs & Stratton Commercial Series 23-horsepower/724cc engine or a Kawasaki FR 21.5-horsepower/651cc engine. The 400S has a deck size of 48 inches and can travel up to 8 mph.

It is backed by a 4-year limited warranty or 500 hours, whichever comes first. For more information on the 400S, click here to find a local dealer.

Gravely redesigns its Pro-Walk mower

Redesigned to be easier to use than previous versions, the Pro-Walk commercial walk-behind mower from Gravely comes in 36-, 48-, 52- and 60-inch deck sizes.

The decks now feature Gravely’s X-Factor II Deck, which is a 10-gauge, all-steel welded deck that has a lifetime warranty. The deck has a wear bar in the front and two gussets to guard the leading edge and prevent baffle bending.

Photo: GravelyPhoto: Gravely

The new design includes a deck level system that requires only a four-point adjustment, eliminating deck hanger welds and improving cut quality.

Another new feature is the intuitive steering controls that allow for a shorter learning curve. The controls are positioned to reduce wrist and arm fatigue. Operators have four height positions for adjusting the handlebars.

The machine’s ease of use has also been improved with a wider wheel base for maneuvering on hillsides. The Pro-Walk has semi-pneumatic front tires that are puncture-proof, according to the company.

“The new Gravely Pro-Walk was designed following feedback that we’ve received from landscape contractors across the country,” said Trae Humphreys, Ariens Company senior commercial product manager. “It features upgrades that increase efficiency and make this mower one of the easiest walk-behinds to operate. We really kept the user in mind when going through this redesign, and incorporated things that would make their job easier.”

Gravely’s constant belt-tensioning system, which it debuted last year is now standard on the Pro-Walk and ensures a consistent blade tip speed, improves engine efficiency and eliminates belt slippage and spring adjustments. The Pro-Walk also has the Hydro-Gear ZT-2800 transmission which supports speeds up to 8 mph and is positioned for a lower center of gravity.

The Pro-Walk will be available in January 2018. For more information, click here.

Dixie Chopper says that the Eagle has landed

Here to replace the Dixie Chopper Classic is the Eagle HP zero-turn mower.

Photo: Dixie ChopperPhoto: Dixie Chopper

This new model features a high-back suspension seat with padded armrests on an ISO mounted platform for a smoother riding experience. Also standard on each model is the springer forks which help absorb bumps and rough terrain.

The Eagle HP comes in three decks sizes of 60”, 66” and 72” and each has 7-gauge shell to handle more volume when working through tough grass. A Parker HTG series transmission allows for smooth steering and has 1,000-hour oil change intervals.

Operators have full control at their fingertips with the InCommand console, which features keyless ignition, blade and job timer, tachometer, fuel gauge and SoftStart clutch engagement.

Dixie Chopper offers the Eagle HP with a Kawasaki FX or Kohler EFI engine ranging from 31 horsepower to 35 horsepower.

It has a 5-year or 1,500 hour limited warranty, whichever comes first. For more information, click here.

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