OPERATION
OPERATION
3.4 Tractor Ballast
To ensure tractor stability when operating on flat surfaces the left rear tractor tire MUST exert a minimum down force (weight) of 1500 lbs. on the ground when the tractor is on level ground, its boom is fully extended and the mower head is horizontal and two feet above the ground. For units which have the ability to operate on either side of the tractor, these requirements must also be met for the right side tire when the boom is extended to the left side as described above. A tractor that does not meet this criteria is DANGEROUS and should not be operated as upset of the unit can occur resulting in possible serious injury and property damage. NOTE: All factory mounted units are tested and meet the ballast requirement before shipment; further testing is not required unless the unit is operated in a manner other than what is considered standard operating conditions.
For additional information on properly ballasting the tractor, refer to Alamo Industrial Tractor and Mower Stability Pamphlet P/N #02959010
If the unit is operated on slopes greater than 5°, additional counterweight will be required. Operation of the unit on slopes greater than 11 percent (6.4 degrees) is not recommended under any circumstances. On a tractor with a 96” outside to outside tire spread, an 11 percent (6.4 degrees) slope occurs when one rear tractor tire is about 8” lower than the other rear tire.
3.5 Front End Weight
A minimum of 20% total tractor weight must be maintained on the tractor front end at all times. Front end weight is critical to maintain steering control and to prevent the tractor from rearing up while driving. If the front end is too light, add weight until a minimum of 20% total weight is reached on the front tires. Front weights and weight carriers can be purchased through an authorized tractor dealership.
2160 06/11 | Operation Section |
© 2011 Alamo Group Inc.
