Mouseover to ZoomViking Hydro
Print
Share
Available Models
Features
Enhanced Control SystemOur patented ECS puts the operator’s hands in a natural, neutral position to help reduce fatigue. |
|
Deck OptionsWith the Viking, you can choose either a 36-inch UltraCut™ Series 2 or 48-inch UltraCut Series 3 cutting deck. |
|
High-Clearance DeckThe high-clearance, well-balanced decks make curb climbing and trailering easy. |
|
Operator-FriendlyInstant forward-to-reverse with infinite speed control makes the hydro-drive Viking easy to operate. And with speeds up to 6.2 mph and 2.2 in reverse. |
Model Specs
Specifications for model # VHS481GKA36200
| Equipment | |
|---|---|
| Steering Control | Hydro drive with Enhanced Control System (ECS), forward/reverse, left/right or zero-turn. |
| Casters | .38" thick caster yoke arms |
| Front Caster Tires | 9 x 3.5-4, smooth-tread, semi-pneumatic. |
| Drive Tires | 16 x 6.5-8, 4-ply Turf Master® |
| Safety Package | Operator Presence Controls (OPC). Operator must have speed control lever in neutral and blades disengaged to leave operator’s position without stopping engine |
| Parking Brake | Lever-actuated mechanical compression. |
| Electrical | No battery, recoil start. |
| Power Components | |
|---|---|
| Engine Model | FS481V |
| Engine Brand | Kawasaki® |
| Engine Series | V-Twin |
| Engine Speed | 3,600 rpm |
| Air Filter | Standard Engine Manufacturer's air filter |
| Drive Description | Twin Hydro-Gear variable-displacement pumps and twin high-efficiency Parker/Ross wheel-drive motors with 1\\" (2.54 cm) tapered shafts. |
| Speed | Infinitely variable speed selection from 0– 6.2 mph (10 kmph) forward, 0–2.2 mph (3.5 kmph) reverse. |
| PTO Engagement | Mechanical blade engagement with blade brake. |
| Fuel Capacity | 5-gallon (18.9-L) fuel tank. |
| Drive Wheel Release | Allows unit movement without engine running. |
| Deck Lift | Manual lift with hairpin from hole to hole for position adjustment. |
| Engine Type | Carbureted |
| Engine Displacement | 603 |
| Drive | Hydro-Drive |
| Fuel Indicator | None |
| Carb Compliant | No |
| Fuel Type | Gas Carbureted |
| Model Description |
Viking Hydro 14.5 HP* Kaw FS481V w/36" Series 2 Deck
*The gross horsepower of these gasoline engines was laboratory rated at 3600 rpm by the engine manufacturer in accordance
with SAE J1940 or SAE J2723. As configured to meet safety, emission and operating requirements, the actual engine
horsepower on these mowers may be significantly lower. |
| Decks | |
|---|---|
| Deck Style | Fixed Deck |
| Deck Style Description | Fixed Ultracut Series 2, side discharge standard, with molded discharge chute and option to bag or mulch. |
| Width / Cutting Deck | 36" |
| Deck Construction | 10-gauge top that is formed and continuously seam welded, 7-gauge side skirt and 7-gauge welded spindle mounting locations for improved strength. |
| Cutting Heights | 1.0" (2.5 cm) to 4.25" (10.8 cm) in 0.25" (0.54 cm) increments. |
| Blade Spindles | No maintenance, sealed and non-greasable spindles; 5.40"-diameter cutter housing and 1.0” diameter spindle tube. |
| Blade Tip Speed | Approximately 18,500 fpm. |
| Blades | 2 Blades at 18.00" Length |
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Width | 47.0 in. (119.4 cm) |
| Length | 78.0 in. (198.1 cm) |
| Height | 43.2 in. (109.7 cm) |
| Curb Weight | 481 |
Specifications for model # VHS481GKA48300
| Equipment | |
|---|---|
| Steering Control | Hydro drive with Enhanced Control System (ECS), forward/reverse, left/right or zero-turn. |
| Casters | .38\\" thick caster yoke arms |
| Front Caster Tires | 9 x 3.5-4, smooth-tread, semi-pneumatic. |
| Drive Tires | 16 x 6.5-8, 4-ply Turf Master® |
| Safety Package | Operator Presence Controls (OPC). Operator must have speed control lever in neutral and blades disengaged to leave operator’s position without stopping engine |
| Parking Brake | Lever-actuated mechanical compression. |
| Electrical | No battery, recoil start. |
| Power Components | |
|---|---|
| Engine Model | FS481V |
| Engine Brand | Kawasaki® |
| Engine Series | V-Twin |
| Engine Speed | 3,600 rpm |
| Air Filter | Standard Engine Manufacturer's air filter |
| Drive Description | Twin Hydro-Gear variable-displacement pumps and twin high-efficiency Parker/Ross wheel-drive motors with 1\\" (2.54 cm) tapered shafts. |
| Speed | Infinitely variable speed selection from 0– 6.2 mph (10 kmph) forward, 0–2.2 mph (3.5 kmph) reverse. |
| PTO Engagement | Mechanical blade engagement with blade brake. |
| Fuel Capacity | 5-gallon (18.9-L) fuel tank. |
| Drive Wheel Release | Allows unit movement without engine running. |
| Deck Lift | Manual lift with hairpin from hole to hole for position adjustment. |
| Engine Type | Carbureted |
| Engine Displacement | 603 |
| Drive | Hydro-Drive |
| Fuel Indicator | None |
| Carb Compliant | No |
| Fuel Type | Gas Carbureted |
| Model Description |
Viking Hydro 14.5 HP* Kaw FS481V w/48" Series 3 Deck
*The gross horsepower of these gasoline engines was laboratory rated at 3600 rpm by the engine manufacturer in accordance
with SAE J1940 or SAE J2723. As configured to meet safety, emission and operating requirements, the actual engine
horsepower on these mowers may be significantly lower. |
| Decks | |
|---|---|
| Deck Style | Fixed Deck |
| Deck Style Description | Fixed UltraCut Series 3, side discharge standard, with molded discharge chute and option to bag or mulch. |
| Width / Cutting Deck | 48" |
| Deck Construction | 10-gauge top that is formed and continuously seam welded, 7-gauge side skirt and 7-gauge welded spindle mounting locations for improved strength. |
| Cutting Heights | 1.0" (2.5 cm) to 4.25" (10.8 cm) in 0.25" (0.54 cm) increments. |
| Blade Spindles | No maintenance, sealed and non-greasable spindles; 5.40"-diameter cutter housing and 1.0” diameter spindle tube. |
| Blade Tip Speed | Approximately 18,500 fpm. |
| Blades | 3 Blades at 16.25" Length |
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Width | 57.9 in. (147.1 cm) |
| Length | 78.0 in. (198.1 cm) |
| Height | 43.2 in. (109.7 cm) |
| Curb Weight | 531 |
Accessories
3-Bushel BaggerPart# GC3602Lightweight and easy to attach, this 3-bushel grass catcher fits all Exmark Lazer Z, Pioneer, Radius, Vantage* and wide-area walk-behinds. (*Not available for Vantage Propane models.) 116-7042 spacer adapter required for 36" deck models. |
|
Operator Controlled Discharge (Hand)Part# 116-8430The infinitely adjustable blocker door opens and closes, allowing the operator to quickly control discharge when mowing around parked cars and windows. Easily installs and removes without tools. |
|
Walk-Behind Weight SetPart# 103-2637Add weight to the front end of your Exmark® walk-behind. Enhance stability and control when using Exmark StandOn. Comes in pairs. Each weighs 9.5 pounds. Excludes Turf Tracer® X-Series. |
|
Micro-Mulch SystemPart# MK362Fits 36" decks. The aerodynamically designed deck, baffles and blades create airflow patterns that circulate leaves and grass for repeated cuttings and even dispersal deep into the turf. Mulching baffles also keep the underside clean, which reduces grass buildup and clumping. |
|
Equipment CoverPart# 116-1379Protect your zero-turn mower from the elements with this sturdy, waterproof cover. It’s constructed from tough 600-denier polyester, making it abrasion- and tear- resistant. Its elastic opening provides a secure, snug fit. |
|
StandOnPart# 116-7223Exmark’s StandOn features a convenient spring loaded latch and an expanded operator deck that provides a more comfortable and productive mowing experience. |
Walk-Behind Weight SetPart# 103-2637Add weight to the front end of your Exmark® walk-behind. Enhance stability and control when using Exmark StandOn. Comes in pairs. Each weighs 9.5 pounds. Excludes Turf Tracer® X-Series. |
|
Micro-Mulch SystemPart# MK483QThe aerodynamically designed deck, baffles and blades create airflow patterns that circulate leaves and grass for repeated cuttings and even dispersal deep into the turf. Mulching baffles also keep the underside clean, which reduces grass buildup and clumping. |
|
Equipment CoverPart# 116-1379Protect your zero-turn mower from the elements with this sturdy, waterproof cover. It’s constructed from tough 600-denier polyester, making it abrasion- and tear- resistant. Its elastic opening provides a secure, snug fit. |
|
StandOnPart# 116-7223Exmark’s StandOn features a convenient spring loaded latch and an expanded operator deck that provides a more comfortable and productive mowing experience. |
|
Operator Controlled Discharge (Hand)Part# 116-8430The infinitely adjustable blocker door opens and closes, allowing the operator to quickly control discharge when mowing around parked cars and windows. Easily installs and removes without tools. |
|
3-Bushel BaggerPart# GC3602Lightweight and easy to attach, this 3-bushel grass catcher fits all Exmark Lazer Z, Pioneer, Radius, Vantage* and wide-area walk-behinds. (*Not available for Vantage Propane models.) 116-7042 spacer adapter required for 36" deck models. |
Warranty
We have you covered. We take great pride in the quality of our products and stand behind every single one. You can view, download, or print the warranty statement for your equipment here.
Reviews
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 7 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
100%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Cut quality (7)
- Heavy duty construction (6)
- Steering / controllability (6)
- Ease of maintenance (5)
- Engine performance / brand (5)
Cons
Best Uses
- Medium lawns (1-2 acres) (5)
- Professional / commercial mowing (4)
- Side discharge (4)
- Small lawns (less than 1 acre) (4)
- Residential mowing (3)
- Engine Brand?:
- Kawasaki (5)
- Deck Size?:
- 48" (3)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Homeowner (3), Landscape professional (3)
- Personal or Professional Use?:
- Professional (4), Personal (3)
Reviewed by 7 customers
Displaying reviews 1-7
Pros
- Availability & Performance of Accessories
- Comfort & Ergonomics
- Cut Quality
- Ease of Maintenance
- Ease of Use
- Engine Performance / Brand
- Fuel Efficiency
- Heavy Duty Construction
- Speed
- Steering / Controllability
- Styling / Appearance
- Zero-Turning Radius
Cons
- Poor Construction
Best Uses
- Professional / Commercial Mowing
- Residential Mowing
- Side Discharge
- Small Lawns (Less than 1 acre)
- Striping
Comments about Exmark Viking Hydro:
Usefull for small gates, and to cut 1/4 of acre
Pros
- Cut Quality
- Ease of Maintenance
- Heavy Duty Construction
- Speed
- Zero-Turning Radius
Cons
- Poor Steering / Controllability
Best Uses
- Medium Lawns (1-2 acres)
- Small Lawns (Less than 1 acre)
Comments about Exmark Viking Hydro:
Use this to mow 15 commercial properties each week. Works Great!
Pros
- Comfort & Ergonomics
- Cut Quality
- Ease of Maintenance
- Ease of Use
- Engine Performance / Brand
- Fuel Efficiency
- Heavy Duty Construction
- Speed
- Steering / Controllability
- Styling / Appearance
- Zero-Turning Radius
Cons
Best Uses
- Bagging
- Large Lawns (2+ acres)
- Medium Lawns (1-2 acres)
- Professional / Commercial Mowing
- Side Discharge
- Striping
Comments about Exmark Viking Hydro:
awesome
Pros
- Availability & Performance of Accessories
- Comfort & Ergonomics
- Cut Quality
- Ease of Maintenance
- Ease of Use
- Engine Performance / Brand
- Fuel Efficiency
- Heavy Duty Construction
- Speed
- Steering / Controllability
- Styling / Appearance
- Zero-Turning Radius
Cons
Best Uses
- Medium Lawns (1-2 acres)
- Mulching
Comments about Exmark Viking Hydro:
I used to use a 21" Craftmans deck with a Honda engine that worked great at my previous house that was only a 1/8 of acre. Now I mow over an acre and the new 48" Exmark is just awesome and makes my lawn mowing experience so much more enjoyable.
Service and delivery comments:
Yes, the gentleman that delivered the mower gave me a great tutorial and he was prompt and very professional.
Pros
- Comfort & Ergonomics
- Cut Quality
- Ease of Use
- Engine Performance / Brand
- Steering / Controllability
- Styling / Appearance
- Zero-Turning Radius
Cons
Best Uses
- Medium Lawns (1-2 acres)
- Residential Mowing
Comments about Exmark Viking Hydro:
I use this to cut my 1 acre of land which is hilly. The mower makes it easy and safe to mow and has cut the time it takes in half
Service and delivery comments:
My mower arrived when I was told it would and started with just one pull
Pros
- Availability & Performance of Accessories
- Cut Quality
- Heavy Duty Construction
- Steering / Controllability
- Styling / Appearance
Cons
Best Uses
- Mulching
- Professional / Commercial Mowing
- Residential Mowing
- Side Discharge
- Small Lawns (Less than 1 acre)
Comments about Exmark Viking Hydro:
Purchased my Viking in 2003 for personal use. It has performed flawlessly for the last 12 years. I've used it on a couple of properties that I own as well as my own home. There were many manufacturers to choose from and many different types of mowers that were less money. But in the long run I have been happy that I spent a little more and invested in the Exmark brand. The mulching capabilities and quality of cut have been superior. I get compliments on all the time from people on how nice my yard looks. And I don't spend a lot of money on fertilization and watering either. The deck design allows me to cut the grass higher which is much better for the grass while making the lawn look great. The Viking has never failed to give a superior and professional looking cut.
Pros
- Cut Quality
- Ease of Maintenance
- Engine Performance / Brand
- Heavy Duty Construction
- Speed
- Steering / Controllability
Cons
- Limited Availability & Performance of Accessories
Best Uses
- Large Lawns (2+ acres)
- Medium Lawns (1-2 acres)
- Professional / Commercial Mowing
- Side Discharge
- Small Lawns (Less than 1 acre)
Comments about Exmark Viking Hydro:
I really like using my Viking. My company specializes in residential mowing so I bought the 36" as it will fit thru most gates. I have had it for a little less then one mowing season and Im yet to find something that is a challenge to get through, power wise. The engine is plenty big, the hydro drive is great, and the cut is the best of all my other exmark mowers. The only complaint (and its not a big issue) is the bag. I bought the eXmark fabric bag and its not the best system out there... In fact, its clumsy compaired to others. You need to mount a large plate to the deck (about 2X3) using a large pin,
and the bag hooks on to that. Now it does make it easy to empty, (esp. Wet sticky grass) but I think a little too easy. Because the side of the bag is completely open, as soon as you detach the bag from the plate that hooks on the mower deck, about 3-5 good handfulls of grass fall out of the bag and onto the grass that you just mowed. I chose to also try a Accelerator aluminum collector and I like it much better. No big mounting plates, and because it comes off, and then you remove the back, it doesnt spill grass everywhere. I mostly discharge and it does a good job of spreading the clippings, and getting them cut small enough that it gives the same results as mulching. I use this on small and large using a sulky and it does very well with both. There is a little more trimming to do because of the distance from the casters to the blades, but because of the speed and maneuverability, it is a hudge time saver.
I mostly worked alone last year with help on a few days and when I bought this it would cut out about 3 hrs of my day. And before this I used my Commercial 30 for nearly all yards I cut (35 in 2-3 days depending on the time of the year and if I have anyone working with me). If you are looking at a hydro walk behind, this is the one to get. Its way better than the metro, and way cheeper than the turf tracer, but it is a fixed deck so if you need to change height alot, go for the floating deck on the Turf Tracer. The way the blades are set up, they can go 1" up or down total (2-3" for example) without changing the axle position, but if you need to change the axle position, its about a 30 min. job. I cut all my lawns the same height except for 2 and I just use my Commercial 30 for them... Another sweet mower that deserves a good look.
Hope this helps make your decition easier!
Displaying reviews 1-7
