OPERATIONAL SAFETY continued...
Pass finishing mower diagonally through sharp dips and avoid sharp drops to prevent “hanging up” tractor and finishing mower. Practice will improve your skills in maneuvering on rough terrain. Always cut down slopes, never across the face. Always check tractor manual for proper use on slopes.
When using a unit, a minimum 20% of tractor and equipment weight must be on tractor front wheels. Without this weight, tractor could tip over, causing personal injury or death. The weight may be attained with a front- end loader, front wheel weights, ballast in the tires or front tractor weights. When attain- ing a minimum 20% of tractor and equipment weight on the front wheels, you must not exceed the ROPS weight certification. Weigh the tractor and equip- ment. Do not guess or estimate!
TRANSPORT SAFETY
Comply with state and local laws governing highway safety and movement of farm machinery on public roads.
The use of flashing amber lights is acceptable in most localities. However, some localities prohibit their use. Local laws should be checked for all lighting and marking requirements.
At all times, when driving the tractor and equipment on the road or highway under 20 mph (32 kph) use flashing amber warning lights and a slow moving vehicle (SMV) identification emblem. Do not exceed 20 mph (32 kph). Re- duce speed on rough roads and surfaces.
Plan your route to avoid heavy traffic.
Always install transport locks, pins or brackets before transporting.
Do not drink and drive.
Be a safe and courteous driver. Always yield to oncoming traffic in all situa- tions, including narrow bridges, intersections, etc. Watch for traffic when op- erating near or crossing roadways.
Turn curves or go up or down hills only at a low speed and at a gradual steer- ing angle. Make certain that a least 20% of the tractor’s weight is on the front wheels to maintain safe steerage. Slow down on rough or uneven surface. Always check tractor manual for proper use on slopes.
Use extreme care and maintain minimum ground and when operating close to ditches or fences. Be careful when turning sharp corners.
Never allow riders on either tractor or mower.
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