The Ferris SRS Z3 is a stand on that was originally released at GIE in 2017. The only word that adequately describes it is “beast.” It is a huge mower and will be stopped by nothing in its way. This is a bit of a specialty mower and will only have a few applications but boy will it shine in those situations!
Let's take a deeper look into the Ferris SRS Z3 Stand On Mower.
Comparison:
The only real mower that compares is the Wright ZK Stand On. However, after riding both the Ferris Z3 outdoes the Wright by a little. It is just overall a smoother ride, with tons of power, that holds to hills very will.
The Wright ZK has a large fuel tank and is slightly faster. However, we think the Z3X comes out a little ahead because of some other features the mower has. The cutting deck and pivoting front axle are just a couple that really stand out on this mower.
Mower | Ferris Z3X | Wright ZK |
---|---|---|
Cut Width | 52″, 61″ and 72″ | 52″, 61″ and 72″ |
Engine | 37 hp Vanguard with oil guard OR 29.5 hp Kawasaki FX850 | 37 hp Briggs & Stratton Vanguard, 29 hp Kohler ECV860, 27 hp Kawasaki FX850 |
Drive System | Hydro-Gear ZT-4400 Transaxles | Hydro-Gear 15 cu in wtih 16cc pumps with fans |
Speed | 12 mph | 12.5 mph |
Tire Size | Front: 13 x 5-6 Flat-free 52″ Back: 24 x 9.5 – 12 61″ & 72″ Back: 24 x 12 – 12 | Front: 13 x 6.5 – 6 52″ Back: 23 x 10.5 – 12 61″ & 72″ Back: 24 x 12 – 12 |
Fuel Capacity | 11 gallons | 15.5 gallons |
Deck Type | 10 Gauge ICD Cutting System | 7 Gauge Aero Core Deck |
Spindle Type | Cast Iron | Ductile Iron |
Deck Adjustment | Manual Hand Lever | Manual Hand Lever |
Suspension | Full Suspension Platform | None |
Warranty | 2 Year Unlimited hours OR 4 Year/500 Hours | 2 Year Unlimited hours |
Power
The Ferris SRS Z3 Stand On comes with either a Kawasaki FX850V EFI (29.5HP) or a Vanguard BIG BLOCK Oil Guard System EFI (37HP). Let's just say these are some BIG engines. Either one you just you are going to have a very hard time bogging these guys down.
We are a huge fan of the Oil Guard System that this stand on and several other Ferris mowers offer. It allows for 500 hours in between oil changes and increases engine life by running the oil cooler and cleaner. This system allows the engine to run better when operating on hillsides.
A few notes, the oil guard system used to be exclusive to Ferris mowers but in recent years it can now be found on many different mower brands. The 33HP option for the Ferris Z3X is no longer an option on the 52″ mower. The 52″ only has a 37HP Vanguard and Kawasaki FX850 option… this is the only size that offers a Kawasaki.
Features:
- 52″, 61″ or 72″ iCD deck
- Hydro-Gear ZT-4400 Transaxles with 8″ cooling fans
- 11 Gallon Fuel Tank
- 12 MPH (yeah, this thing is FAST)
- 4 Position speed changer
- 2 Position PTO
- Flat Free Caster Tires
- Pivoting Front-Axle
The wide wheelbase on this mower is so wide… it holds so well on hills. The pivoting front-axle is also a game-changer for sticking to hills.
It also has the two-position PTO like the other Ferris SRS models. This allows you to step off the mower with only the blades shutting off and not the mower. So you don't have to pull the parking brake and shut the PTO off in order to get off without the mower shutting off.
Overall, this mower is an absolute beast that is packed with tons of features that will increase your productivity and give an amazing cut.
Cut Quality
The Z3X features the ICD cutting system deck. This is a sloped-nosed deck that offers an amazing cut in many different applications. The baffling of the deck and wide chute allows for a consistent cut. Even in overgrown situations, the deck performs very well.
The pivoting front axle allows the deck to follow the contour of the ground very well. It is similar to Ferris' suspension units the way the deck moves.
Something small that makes a big difference is how the deck is hung. It is hung with steel rods instead of the chains that many other manufactures use. This prevents the deck from “jumping” while mowing.
Durability
Since it has just been released there isn't a lot of data on the durability of the mower. However, we know Ferris' durability and we expect this mower to last a long time. It is built very toughly and appears to be able to withstand the harshest conditions.
Comfort
This is probably the most comfortable stand on in the industry. The suspension stand on platform is has great shock resistance.
The padding that you lean against is also very comfortable. It has a contoured design that is meant to support your legs better for uneven terrain. It makes it easy to stand in different positions while mowing. The way this padding hugs your legs is a great feature.
While this pivoting front axle is great for helping the deck follow the contour of the ground it also makes the machine more comfortable. This stand on gives an extremely comfortable ride because of the pivoting front axle and the suspension platform.
Aesthetics
The Ferris SRS Z3X Stand On mower looks amazing. It definitely stands out and will get a lot of attention. It looks solid and very modern. You will be stunned when you actually see this mower in person.
The wide stance of the machine and the pivoting front axle make this machine look great. It definitely turns some heads!
Safety
Safety is very important on a stand on. There has been a lot of talk in the industry about people being thrown off stand on mowers. Because of the platform's design, you lean forward more so you are less likely to fall off.
There is also a blade shut-off feature that is pretty standard across the industry. If you step off the mower's platform the blades will shut off. This is a key safety feature in case you fall off.
Stand on in general is usually safer than traditional zero turns. This is because you can easily step off the mower if you lose control of it. They are also much better on hills than zero turn mowers.
Price
The price of this mower is very competitive. It seems to be about $1,000 less than the Wright ZK across the board. There are several factors that could go into this so be sure to check with your local Ferris dealer for pricing.
Our Rating
Performance: | (5.0 / 5) |
Cut Quality: | (4.7 / 5) |
Durability: | (5.0 / 5) |
Comfort: | (4.0 / 5) |
Price: | (4.0 / 5) |
Overall: | (4.8 / 5) |
What's your opinion on the Ferris SRS Z3X Stand On?
Do you own or have you rode this mower? If so, leave us a comment and tell us how you liked it!