Exmark 103-8618-01 Caster Fork Lazer Z Vantage CT Phazer S X Series

What It Is

The Exmark 103-8618-01 Caster Fork is an OEM replacement part that supports the front caster wheels on select Exmark zero-turn mowers. It’s designed to restore proper wheel alignment and steering stability when the original fork is bent, cracked, or worn.

Fitment & Compatibility

This fork fits Exmark Lazer Z, Lazer Z Vantage, CT, Phazer S, and X Series mowers. Before buying, confirm your deck size and model year—compatibility varies by chassis, not just name. Measure the caster wheel bolt pattern (typically 3.5” center-to-center) and the fork stem diameter (usually 3/4”). Verify your existing fork mount width and bolt hole spacing match. This is an OEM Exmark part, not aftermarket, so it’s a direct fit for listed models. If your mower has a different caster setup (e.g., older Lazer Z models), double-check the part number against your serial plate.

Key Things to Know

• Quality: OEM-grade steel construction, powder-coated for corrosion resistance. Welds are clean and strong—no cheap casting issues.
• Installation difficulty: Moderate. Requires jacking the front of the mower, removing the caster wheel, and unbolting the old fork. Expect 30–60 minutes, plus a grease gun for the pivot.
• Common gotchas: The pivot bolt can be seized—use penetrating oil and a breaker bar. Don’t reuse old bushings or bearings; buy new ones (Exmark 103-8617) to avoid slop. Torque the pivot bolt to 45–55 ft-lbs.
• Wheel compatibility: Works with 11x4.0-5 and 13x5.0-6 caster wheels, but check your tire size before ordering.

Should You Buy It

Buy this if your Exmark zero-turn pulls to one side, wobbles at speed, or has a visibly bent caster fork. It’s the correct OEM fix for Lazer Z Vantage, CT, Phazer S, and X Series owners—no guesswork, no aftermarket fitment risks. Skip it if your fork is straight but the bearings are shot; you only need a bushing kit.