Exmark 116-6655 Vertical Adjust Striper Kit 109-5081 Review

Overview

The Exmark 116-6655 Vertical Adjust Striper Kit is a premium aftermarket accessory designed exclusively for select Exmark zero-turn mowers, specifically those compatible with the 109-5081 mounting bracket. Priced at a steep $703.99, this isn’t a casual add-on—it’s a professional-grade tool for operators who demand show-quality lawn striping. It’s built for commercial landscapers and obsessive homeowners who want crisp, dark stripes that rival a baseball field, not just a passable pattern. If you own a compatible Exmark and take lawn aesthetics seriously, this kit delivers precision adjustability that cheaper kits can’t touch.

Who Should Buy This

• Commercial landscapers with Exmark mowers: If you’re billing clients for premium turf appearance, this kit pays for itself in curb appeal. The vertical adjustability lets you fine-tune stripe intensity on the fly, which is a game-changer for high-end accounts.
• Homeowners with large, flat lawns (1+ acres): On smaller lots, the effect is subtle; on open, manicured turf, this kit transforms a mow into a statement. If you have the space and the right Exmark model, you’ll see the difference immediately.
• Lawn enthusiasts who obsess over detail: You already edge with scissors and measure blade height with a ruler. This kit gives you the tool to control stripe darkness by adjusting roller pressure—no more guessing or relying on flimsy universal kits.
• Operators who want durability over cheap alternatives: At $704, this isn’t for bargain shoppers. If you’ve broken plastic stripers in the past or hate replacing worn-out rollers, the steel construction here is built for years of heavy use.

Key Features Breakdown

• Vertical Adjust Design: This isn’t a fixed roller. You can raise or lower the striping roller to change how much weight it presses into the turf. Lower pressure = lighter stripes; higher pressure = darker, more defined stripes. It’s a simple mechanical adjustment that gives you control without swapping parts.
• Compatibility with Exmark 109-5081: This kit is engineered specifically for Exmark’s mounting system. That means no drilling, no jury-rigging, and no wobble. If your mower isn’t on the compatibility list (check Exmark’s site), this won’t fit—don’t force it.
• Heavy-Duty Steel Construction: The frame is welded steel, not stamped sheet metal or plastic. It resists bending under the weight of the roller and won’t crack after a season of bumping over curbs or uneven terrain.
• Large-Diameter Roller: The roller itself is wide and thick, which lays down a smooth, continuous stripe without skipping or chatter marks. On wet grass or damp turf, this matters—smaller rollers tend to smear or leave inconsistent patterns.
• Tool-Free Height Adjustment: The vertical adjust uses a simple pin-and-hole system. No wrenches, no Allen keys. You can change stripe intensity in seconds between lawns or during a single mow if you’re feeling creative.
• Direct Bolt-On Installation: Mounts directly to the factory bracket with minimal hassle. Expect 30–45 minutes for first-time installation, assuming you can get your mower off the ground safely.

Pros

• Superior stripe control: The vertical adjust gives you real, repeatable control over stripe darkness. You can go from a subtle whisper to a deep, show-ready stripe without buying multiple rollers.
• Built to last: Steel frame and thick roller mean this will outlast your mower if you maintain it. No plastic parts to crack or warp in the sun.
• Professional-grade results: On a properly prepped lawn, this kit produces stripes that look like they were painted on. It’s the same hardware used by sports turf crews.
• Tool-free adjustments: Changing stripe intensity mid-job takes seconds. That’s huge for landscapers who move between properties with different grass types or client preferences.
• No flex or wobble: Because it’s designed for specific Exmark models, the mount is rock-solid. Universal kits often bounce or shift, ruining stripe consistency.
• Quiet operation: The roller is smooth and doesn’t rattle or clatter over bumps. Cheap stripers sound like a tin can behind your mower; this one just works.

Cons

• High price: $704 is a lot for a roller. You can buy a whole universal striper kit for under $100. You’re paying for durability and precision, but it’s a steep entry for hobbyists.
• Limited compatibility: Only fits specific Exmark zero-turns with the 109-5081 bracket. If you upgrade mowers or own a different brand, this kit is useless. Check compatibility before buying.
• Adds weight and length: The kit sticks out behind the mower, making tight turns and trailer loading more awkward. On a 60-inch deck, it adds about 18 inches of overhang.
• No storage lock: The adjust pin can vibrate out if not secured with a cotter pin or clip (not included). Some users report losing the pin during transport. A simple zip tie fixes it, but it’s an oversight.

Bottom Line

The Exmark 116-6655 Vertical Adjust Striper Kit is the gold standard for zero-turn striping—if your mower is compatible and your budget allows. It’s overkill for a 1/4-acre lot with a 42-inch deck, but on a 60-inch commercial Exmark cutting a golf-course-quality lawn, it’s worth every penny. The vertical adjust feature alone justifies the price for pros who need to dial in different looks for different clients. Homeowners with the right mower and a passion for perfect stripes will also love it, but be honest about whether you’ll actually use that adjustability. If you just want a simple stripe pattern, save $600 and buy a universal kit. But if you want the best, this is it. Highly recommended for serious operators.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this fit my Exmark Lazer Z?
It depends on the year and model. The kit requires the 109-5081 mounting bracket, which is common on many Lazer Z and Quest models from the last decade. Check Exmark’s compatibility chart or measure your existing bracket spacing. If you don’t see the bracket holes, it won’t fit without modification.

Can I adjust stripe darkness while mowing?
Technically yes, but it’s not recommended while the blades are engaged. The adjust pin is accessible from the operator seat, but reaching back while moving is unsafe. Stop the mower, disengage the PTO, make your adjustment, and resume. It takes 10 seconds.

Does this kit work on wet grass?
It works, but results vary. Wet grass tends to mat down unevenly, so stripes won’t be as crisp. The heavy roller helps press the grass flat, but for best results, mow when the turf is dry. The vertical adjust can help compensate by adding