To go completely overboard on the mowing of my 1.25 acres, I have boiled down my choices to between a Gravely ZT HD 48 w/23 hp Kawasaki FR691, at $4639 vs. Ferris 400S w/21.5hp Kawasaki FR651, at $4299. Both are 48" 3 blade fabricated decks. The Gravely is $1056 off MSRP, the Ferris is $700 off MSRP.
I like the suspension on the Ferris over no suspension on the Gravely as I have some back and shoulder issues.
I was able to control the Ferris a little better, but honestly can't explain why. It just felt more controllable to a new ZT user. Maybe it's a bit slower or the controls are a bit less "touchy".
Gravely seems a bit more ruggedly built with box frame vs. channel, larger front tires, better floor plate and access.
Gravely has a center anti-scalp wheel, the Ferris doesn't, but this may be because of how the deck works with the Ferris suspension.
Both have pretty robust spindles w/grease fittings.
I think the Ferris has ZT2800's vs ZT3100's on the Gravely.
Gravely has higher hp rated engine, but if you look at Kawasaki's FR engine specs, (insert the usual http stuff) kawasakienginesusa.com/compare/engines/40,41,43,42,39 , it's really difficult to come to any other conclusion but that the 651 is a detuned 691/730. Same bore, stroke, displacement, comp ratio, etc. Maybe different cams, carbs, or ???. Anybody know how Kawasaki rates these engines?
Beyond all that, any comments on the two good or bad would be welcomed. They both seem like great mowers. I'm just a little stuck pulling the trigger. Thanks!
