Ferris 2100z vs Hustler Fastrack SD

[Hexa Fox]

I made a similar post on another site and got few responses. I thought I would put one here and try to make it more short. Long story short I found a dealer that has been extremely patient with me on buying a new machine and does not act like a used car sales person like the rest. He will get some commission, but he has made it clear he is desires to put me on a machine I will be happy with. I gave him a $500.00 down deposit and in return he ordered the following two machines.

Ferris 2100z 52" Cut with a 26HP Briggs and Stratton Vanguard
Hustler Fastrack 54" Cut with a 23HP Kawasaki FR691V + Flex Forks

The Ferris is going to run me about $8,900 while the Hustler will run me about $7,000. So obviously the Ferris is a step up from the Hustle, but I can save about $2,000. Also... something really embarrassing happened to me last time I was trying out the Ferris. I tried to take it across his property to try it out on some slopes and got it stuck in the mud on the way there. It was extremely embarrassing, as I operate and mess around with this kind of stuff for a living... Not to mention after we got it out the unit was covered in mud... I only wished he was more stern but he could only reassure me that it was not my fault.

The reason this happened is because right now I own a machine that weighs about 600 lbs and this Ferris weighs about 1,300 lbs. My unit would have easily floated over the mud and made it to the other side. Therefore, I really underestimated how much weight was under this machine. Also for comparison the Hustler weighs in around 860 lbs and may be a better transition right now. However, grass cutting is just starting and my business is still expanding so I may be better off with the Ferris in the long run.

Anyway I am looking for some advice here on what to choose. I thought that after I tried the Ferris I would be instantly sold because of the suspension system. However, a Hustler with Flex Forks feels really nice too. Another long story short is that grass is growing and I will need to make my final decision between Friday and Monday. This guy is a dealer for both so I can choose either unit and get the $500.00 deposit put into either of them.

I am going to be mowing on several slopes and it is important to make certain that not only does the machine stay there, but also does not damage turf due to the weight and gravity dragging it down.

The next issue I face is whether to buy an open or enclosed trailer. However, this could also be for another time. They are also really close to each other and may make the big decision(s) in one single day. For example, I may drive home with a brand new trailer and brand new mower on the back of it. The pros and cons I see so far with the trailers are as follows.

Enclosed Trailer:
Good
Less Chance of Theft
Better Protection for Equipment
Equipment can be Permanently Stored
Tandem Axle With Breaks

Bad
More Difficult To Back
Equipment Will Get Very Hot

Open Trailer:
Good
Easier To Back
Equipment Will Get Better Airflow
Zero Turns Will Be Permanently Stored With Expensive Cover
Tandem Axle Trailer With Breaks

Bad
More Chance of Theft
Outside Elements/Hazards

I was really leaning towards the open trailer. As I can keep my two zero turns on there and plan to put an expensive cover over each of them. This cover is suppose to protect well from the elements and increase airflow. Then my insurance agent obviously recommended the enclosed because of better protected from theft. If I keep the zero turns permanently in an enclosed trailer I will probably need to install extra vents and eventually and on board battery with lights, alarms and intake + exhaust fans to keep airflow for the equipment.

Any feedback and all will be greatly appreciated!

 

[Shughes717]

I made a similar post on another site and got few responses. I thought I would put one here and try to make it more short. Long story short I found a dealer that has been extremely patient with me on buying a new machine and does not act like a used car sales person like the rest. He will get some commission, but he has made it clear he is desires to put me on a machine I will be happy with. I gave him a $500.00 down deposit and in return he ordered the following two machines.

Ferris 2100z 52" Cut with a 26HP Briggs and Stratton Vanguard
Hustler Fastrack 54" Cut with a 23HP Kawasaki FR691V + Flex Forks

The Ferris is going to run me about $8,900 while the Hustler will run me about $7,000. So obviously the Ferris is a step up from the Hustle, but I can save about $2,000. Also... something really embarrassing happened to me last time I was trying out the Ferris. I tried to take it across his property to try it out on some slopes and got it stuck in the mud on the way there. It was extremely embarrassing, as I operate and mess around with this kind of stuff for a living... Not to mention after we got it out the unit was covered in mud... I only wished he was more stern but he could only reassure me that it was not my fault.

The reason this happened is because right now I own a machine that weighs about 600 lbs and this Ferris weighs about 1,300 lbs. My unit would have easily floated over the mud and made it to the other side. Therefore, I really underestimated how much weight was under this machine. Also for comparison the Hustler weighs in around 860 lbs and may be a better transition right now. However, grass cutting is just starting and my business is still expanding so I may be better off with the Ferris in the long run.

Anyway I am looking for some advice here on what to choose. I thought that after I tried the Ferris I would be instantly sold because of the suspension system. However, a Hustler with Flex Forks feels really nice too. Another long story short is that grass is growing and I will need to make my final decision between Friday and Monday. This guy is a dealer for both so I can choose either unit and get the $500.00 deposit put into either of them.

I am going to be mowing on several slopes and it is important to make certain that not only does the machine stay there, but also does not damage turf due to the weight and gravity dragging it down.

The next issue I face is whether to buy an open or enclosed trailer. However, this could also be for another time. They are also really close to each other and may make the big decision(s) in one single day. For example, I may drive home with a brand new trailer and brand new mower on the back of it. The pros and cons I see so far with the trailers are as follows.

Enclosed Trailer:
Good
Less Chance of Theft
Better Protection for Equipment
Equipment can be Permanently Stored
Tandem Axle With Breaks

Bad
More Difficult To Back
Equipment Will Get Very Hot

Open Trailer:
Good
Easier To Back
Equipment Will Get Better Airflow
Zero Turns Will Be Permanently Stored With Expensive Cover
Tandem Axle Trailer With Breaks

Bad
More Chance of Theft
Outside Elements/Hazards

I was really leaning towards the open trailer. As I can keep my two zero turns on there and plan to put an expensive cover over each of them. This cover is suppose to protect well from the elements and increase airflow. Then my insurance agent obviously recommended the enclosed because of better protected from theft. If I keep the zero turns permanently in an enclosed trailer I will probably need to install extra vents and eventually and on board battery with lights, alarms and intake + exhaust fans to keep airflow for the equipment.

Any feedback and all will be greatly appreciated!

Wow, if that was the short version then your other post must have read like a novel.:laughing: You really aren't making a fair comparison with those two mowers. The fastrack sd is the lowest end of hustler's commercial line and the is2100 is near the upper end of ferris' line. The vanguard on the ferris is a better engine than the fs series Kawi on the sd (more comparable to the fx series Kawi). The zt4400 hydros on the ferris are larger than the zt3400 hydros on the sd. The ferris has 11 gallons of fuel capacity, where as the hustler has 5 gallons. The rear tires on the ferris are 24x12, where as the the rear tires on the hustler are 22x10. Yes the ferris weighs more, but the larger, wider tires spread the weight out over a larger surface area. Also, the ferris will offer a more comfortable ride. A more fair comparison would be the is2100 to the x one. Both companies offer great products, but you really aren't comparing apples to apples. I have no idea how many lawns you are mowing, but I would think that either mower could handle a heavy work load with ease. I have no input on which trailer, because I have never owned a covered trailer and couldn't give you an informed opinion. I will leave that to someone who has used both.

 

[Mad Mackie]

Great comments Shughes717!
There is some consideration between machine weights, but ZTRs can get stuck fairly easily regardless of their weight. The Kawasaki line of engines is FR is the lower end, FS is better but still has basic air filtration, FX is top as it is an FS with the two stage HD air filtration system in the Kawasaki vertical shaft engine lineup. I prefer larger tires which usually come on heavier machines anyway, less turf damage in tight turns.
One needs to do research on machines and get into the specs to do better comparisons of machines.
As for trailers, for years I had an open trailer, but got tired of dealing with weather and possible theft problems. In 1999 I bought a closed cargo trailer with ramp, extra height and larger side door. It is nice to know that the equipment is protected and secure in a closed trailer and an off season storage asset.
My primary machine is a Scag Tiger Cub, 48" deck with a collection system. This machine is shorter and fairly light in weight which benefits me doing the type of lawns that I mow. My Hustler X-ONE is a 60" rear discharge machine used primarily in an old cemetery, very different situation from regular lawns. It has a Kawasaki FX730V engine which is a sweet running engine!!!
Mad Mackie in CT:smile::biggrin::laughing:

 

[Carscw]

Wow


Ok here we go.

On wet lawns my light weight toro z480 gets stuck. Digs holes when wet.
My fast track SD has no trouble on the same lawn.

The hustler is a very good mower. Only thing I don't like is grass stays under the deck and clogs bad when wet.

Open trailer is the way I go.

People say they like a box trailer to keep the mowers out of the weather. Really omg. It's a mower made to be used outside.

 

[Mad Mackie]

As for trailers open or closed, it depends on where you live. Having had 80" of snow this past winter, I prefer to have my machines out of the weather.
I had open trailers for many years, but went with closed trailers and I'm happy that I did. When I had open trailers, I still stored my equipment off season inside a shed or my garage. With a closed trailer, I bring my storage shed on wheels with me where needed.
Because a machine is used outside doesn't mean that it should be left outside. I have a list of folks to contact when I upgrade my equipment as they know my stuff is cared for properly and I have no problem selling it.
My first two open trailers that I had I built myself with nice long hinged ramps. My third open trailer was a production model, 7' X 14'. I had to modify the ramps making them longer and narrower, repositioning the hinges, so I could lift them and not get a hernia.

 

[Hexa Fox]

Wow, if that was the short version then your other post must have read like a novel.:laughing: You really aren't making a fair comparison with those two mowers. The fastrack sd is the lowest end of hustler's commercial line and the is2100 is near the upper end of ferris' line. The vanguard on the ferris is a better engine than the fs series Kawi on the sd (more comparable to the fx series Kawi). The zt4400 hydros on the ferris are larger than the zt3400 hydros on the sd. The ferris has 11 gallons of fuel capacity, where as the hustler has 5 gallons. The rear tires on the ferris are 24x12, where as the the rear tires on the hustler are 22x10. Yes the ferris weighs more, but the larger, wider tires spread the weight out over a larger surface area. Also, the ferris will offer a more comfortable ride. A more fair comparison would be the is2100 to the x one. Both companies offer great products, but you really aren't comparing apples to apples. I have no idea how many lawns you are mowing, but I would think that either mower could handle a heavy work load with ease. I have no input on which trailer, because I have never owned a covered trailer and couldn't give you an informed opinion. I will leave that to someone who has used both.

Hahaha, no I just went overboard again. There is just too much to say. The reason I am comparing the two is because I am sure that either machine is going to be a huge improvement over what I have now. However, if I go with the Ferris now there is a chance I may really appreciate it down the road from now. Right off the bat something that I noticed is that the seat on the Ferris is barley existent. Right when you see the Hustler you immediately notice a different in the seat. The seat on the Hustler really supports you and on the Ferris there is a really uncomfortable gap that just feels incomplete. I did get to demo both units like I said and I thought that the Ferris was going to rise above greatly when it came to quality. Certainly, I cannot mow with either of them for comparison.

The big concern for me on an enclosed trailer is airflow. If it is used for permanent storage then the equipment is going to sit in there and get extremely hot. I would have to worry about mounting an on board battery for an alarm system, lights, and a exhaust/intake fan to be happy. Therefore, I think I would rather go open right now, especially since I am going to save a lot of money. I guess I am stressing out because it is a lot of money either way and I want to make the right decision. Because after I purchase one of these machines/trailers when I drive home with them the sale is final.

I am still leaning towards the Ferris though just because of the extra and it being a step up. However, if I get on this Hustler that I like and the seat feels nicer I may just take it and be done with it because of that. The Ferris seat immediately gave me a wedgie because of the gap in the seat. Also while I was testing it out in at least one instance it stalled because my @$$ was not fully in the seat.

 

[Shughes717]

Hahaha, no I just went overboard again. There is just too much to say. The reason I am comparing the two is because I am sure that either machine is going to be a huge improvement over what I have now. However, if I go with the Ferris now there is a chance I may really appreciate it down the road from now. Right off the bat something that I noticed is that the seat on the Ferris is barley existent. Right when you see the Hustler you immediately notice a different in the seat. The seat on the Hustler really supports you and on the Ferris there is a really uncomfortable gap that just feels incomplete. I did get to demo both units like I said and I thought that the Ferris was going to rise above greatly when it came to quality. Certainly, I cannot mow with either of them for comparison.

The big concern for me on an enclosed trailer is airflow. If it is used for permanent storage then the equipment is going to sit in there and get extremely hot. I would have to worry about mounting an on board battery for an alarm system, lights, and a exhaust/intake fan to be happy. Therefore, I think I would rather go open right now, especially since I am going to save a lot of money. I guess I am stressing out because it is a lot of money either way and I want to make the right decision. Because after I purchase one of these machines/trailers when I drive home with them the sale is final.

I am still leaning towards the Ferris though just because of the extra and it being a step up. However, if I get on this Hustler that I like and the seat feels nicer I may just take it and be done with it because of that. The Ferris seat immediately gave me a wedgie because of the gap in the seat. Also while I was testing it out in at least one instance it stalled because my @$$ was not fully in the seat.

I have not noticed the issue with the ferris seat. The mower I have now has the same seat, but I don't have the suspension. You should go with the mower that you are more comfortable with. Like I said before, both are well built mowers. I don't think you will be disappointed with either mower you go with. I understand that you are concerned that the equipment would get hot in the trailer, but I don't see where that will cause any damage. The equipment gets hot when it's being used. Again, I have never owned an enclosed trailer, so I really can't give an informed opinion. Someone else may be able to correct me about the heat issue with the equipment, but I don't see how it will affect anything.

 

[Mad Mackie]

Education costs money, but as an educated closed trailer owner, I will offer my experiences free of charge!!!
Extra height, I don't like banging my head.
Wide side door, trying to stuff in an object that is 2" wider than the door opening can be a problem.
Torsion suspension is better than springs, trailer is lower to the ground and rides smoother.
Radial tires have less rolling effort than bias-ply tires and they contribute to a smoother ride.
I don't like the crank open roof vents, they deteriorate quickly, even the "forever" ones. When they crack, guess where the rain goes!!!!
The wheels on 7' wide trailers are external to the trailer "box", 8' and 8.5' wide trailers have wheel wells inside the "box".
As a 7' wide trailer is narrower than a wider trailer, so is the ramp and its support cables.
An interior of at least 3/8" plywood allows you to mount almost any type of hanging bracket for small equipment storage.
A trailer with a V nose gives you the room to install a shelf or two to store small items and not reduce the floor space area.
A white trailer will not get as hot inside as a dark painted trailer, but a white trailer gets dirty quickly.
Silver is the best paint color as it doesn't show the dirt as much as a white trailer does.
The interior will get hotter than ambient during the day and below ambient during night. The darker the trailer exterior is, the greater the temp span.
The only problem that I have experienced is storing gasoline in the trailers. If the gasoline has ethanol as most states do, the gas can start to turn bad in three weeks, both in storage and in a machine. I have solved the gasoline storage problem by adding Star Tron, which is an enzyme type fuel additive that will extend the storage life of the gasoline.
My next trailer specs:
7' X 16', 7,000 GVW, ramp, extra height, wide side door, radial tires on aluminum wheels, torsion suspension, V nose, silver ext color, no roof vents, 3/8" plywood interior, double thick floor as a single floor is 3/4" plywood and heavy machines cause sagging.
Expensive trailer?? Yes it is!!! But doing it right the first time is the least expensive way to go!!!
All trailers over 3,000 LBs gross weight will have electric brakes.
There you go!!!
Mad Mackie in CT:smile::biggrin::laughing::thumbsup:

 

[Shughes717]

Education costs money, but as an educated closed trailer owner, I will offer my experiences free of charge!!!
Extra height, I don't like banging my head.
Wide side door, trying to stuff in an object that is 2" wider than the door opening can be a problem.
Torsion suspension is better than springs, trailer is lower to the ground and rides smoother.
Radial tires have less rolling effort than bias-ply tires and they contribute to a smoother ride.
I don't like the crank open roof vents, they deteriorate quickly, even the "forever" ones. When they crack, guess where the rain goes!!!!
The wheels on 7' wide trailers are external to the trailer "box", 8' and 8.5' wide trailers have wheel wells inside the "box".
As a 7' wide trailer is narrower than a wider trailer, so is the ramp and its support cables.
An interior of at least 3/8" plywood allows you to mount almost any type of hanging bracket for small equipment storage.
A trailer with a V nose gives you the room to install a shelf or two to store small items and not reduce the floor space area.
A white trailer will not get as hot inside as a dark painted trailer, but a white trailer gets dirty quickly.
Silver is the best paint color as it doesn't show the dirt as much as a white trailer does.
The interior will get hotter than ambient during the day and below ambient during night. The darker the trailer exterior is, the greater the temp span.
The only problem that I have experienced is storing gasoline in the trailers. If the gasoline has ethanol as most states do, the gas can start to turn bad in three weeks, both in storage and in a machine. I have solved the gasoline storage problem by adding Star Tron, which is an enzyme type fuel additive that will extend the storage life of the gasoline.
My next trailer specs:
7' X 16', 7,000 GVW, ramp, extra height, wide side door, radial tires on aluminum wheels, torsion suspension, V nose, silver ext color, no roof vents, 3/8" plywood interior, double thick floor as a single floor is 3/4" plywood and heavy machines cause sagging.
Expensive trailer?? Yes it is!!! But doing it right the first time is the least expensive way to go!!!
All trailers over 3,000 LBs gross weight will have electric brakes.
There you go!!!
Mad Mackie in CT:smile::biggrin::laughing::thumbsup:

Well there you have it hexa fox. Those are great points from someone who has been there and come across the issues one has when using a closed trailer. :thumbsup:

 

[Mad Mackie]

I'm on my 4th closed cargo trailer, all being Pace American Cargo Sport models. For a time I had 3 at once, red, white and blue!!!
Pace American trailer company was sold some years ago, the seller started a new company called Bravo Trailers. A fellow lawn care operator asked me to help him with a new trailer and except for the V nose, his new trailer was to the same specs that I mentioned in my previous post and with a spare tire and mount. My friend has a buddy that wanted the same trailer but with a V nose. We went to my favorite trailer dealer they had the exact trailer in stock and this guy bought it on the spot, now I want one!!!!
A neighbor of this guy is a troop leader for some sort of organization, the name of which I don't recall, but they camp out often and needed a trailer. He wanted to buy my trailer, but I wasn't interested in selling it at the time. We went thru the specs for Bravo trailers and added some special requests and Bravo sent him a quote and a delivery date should he order it by a certain date. He ordered it, Bravo and the dealer gave his not for profit organization a great price, the trailer is fantastic!!!
There are other trailer manufacturers that are as accommodating as Bravo and may be close by to some of you. There are also some junk trailers around too, buyer beware!!!
My 7' X 14' trailer is now 12 years old and looking a little shabby. A wash, new wheels and some TLC would sharpen it up, but it is my work trailer and it shows it!!! At times I do carpentry work in it at a job site, table saw with router, chop saw, and sometimes a small metal mill and metal lathe have been in it with my generator running outside to power the machinery.
This trailer is touchy to back up with a full size truck or van. The 7' X 16' trailers that I have towed backed up much easier as the distance from the trailer axles to the rear wheels of the tow vehicle is just enough more to make backing up much easier.
I've had trailers that were much longer, two of which were open 3 car haulers, triple axle, and 5th wheel type. Those days are gone as I'm in my 70s and slowing down!!! My 350 and 450 Ford diesel duallys are gone too!!!
Mad Mackie in CT:smile::biggrin::laughing: