OPERATION

OPERATION

9.4 Driving the Tractor and Mower

Start off driving at a slow speed and gradually increase your speed while maintaining complete control of the tractor and mower. Moving slowly at first will also prevent the tractor from rearing up and loss of steering control. The tractor should never be operated at speeds that cannot be safely handled or which will prevent the operator from stopping quickly during an emergency. If the power steering or engine ceases operating, stop the tractor immediately as the tractor will be difficult to control.

Perform turns with the tractor and mower at slow speeds to determine how the tractor with an attached mower handles a turn. Determine the safe speed to maintain proper control of the tractor when making turns. When turning with a towed implement, the overall working length of the unit is increased. Allow additional clearance for the mower when turning.

To avoid overturns, drive the tractor with care and at safe speeds, especially when operating over rough ground, crossing ditches or slopes, and turning corners. Tractor wheel tread spacing should be increased when working on inclines or rough ground to reduce the possibility of tipping.

Use extreme caution when operating on steep slopes. Keep the tractor in a low gear when going downhill. DO NOT coast or free-wheel downhill. OPS-R-0019

Be particularly careful when transporting the Implement with the Tractor. Turn curves or go up hills only at a low speed and using a gradual steering angle. Rear mounted implements move the center of gravity to the rear and remove weight from the front wheels. Make certain, by adding front ballast, that at least 20% of the tractor’s weight is on the front wheels to prevent rearing up, loss of steering control or Tractor tip-over. Slow down on rough or uneven surfaces to prevent loss of steering control which could result in property damage or possible injury. Do not transport unless 3-Point lift lever is fully raised and in the latched transport position. Dropping implement in transport can cause serious damage to the tractor and/or Implement and possibly cause the operator or others to be injured or killed. (S3PT-2)

SE4 05/05

Operation Section 4-22

© 2005 Alamo Group Inc.

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Rhino Mounts SE4 manual Driving the Tractor and Mower