OPERATION
8 DRIVING THE TRACTOR AND MOWER
Safe tractor transport requires the operator to possess a thorough knowledge of the model being operated and precautions to take while driving with an attached implement. Ensure the tractor has the capacity to handle the weight of the boom and the tractor operating controls are set for safe transport. To ensure safety while driving the tractor with a boom, review the following.
Read all safety instructions. Decals on the Machete Boom warn you of particular and multiple hazards. Some decals are attached close to part of the Machete Boom where there is a possible hazard. Read and make sure you understand the safety messages before you operate the implement. Keep all decals clean and readable. Replace lost or damaged decals, refer to safety section for more information.
Power for operating the mower is supplied from the tractor PTO. Refer to your tractor manual instructions for engaging and disengaging the PTO. Start the tractor and bring the engine speed up to normal operating speed of 540 PTO RPM. Always engage the PTO at low engine RPM and run the mower for a short period until all air is removed from the hoses. Keep all person's well clear of mower since blades can throw objects with great velocity for a considerable distance! KEEP CLEAR!
WARNING! Transport only at safe speeds. Serious accidents and injuries can result from operating this equipment at unsafe speeds. Understand the Tractor and Implement and how it handles before transporting on streets and highways. Make sure the Tractor steering and brakes are in good condi- tion and operate properly.
Before transporting the Tractor and Implement, determine the safe transport speeds for you and the equipment. Make sure you abide by the following rules:
1.Test the tractor at a slow speed and increase the speed slowly. Apply the Brakes smoothly to determine the stopping characteristics of the Tractor and Implement.
As you increase the speed of the Tractor the stopping distance increases. Determine the maximum safe transport speed for you and this Equipment.
2.Test the equipment at a slow speed in turns. Increase the speed through the turn only after you determine that it is safe to operate at a higher speed. Use extreme care and reduce your speed when turning sharply to prevent the tractor and implement from turning over. Determine the maximum safe turning speed for you and this equip- ment before operating on roads or uneven ground.
3.Only transport the Tractor and Implement at the speeds that you have determined are safe and which allow you to properly control the equipment.
Be aware of the operating conditions. Do not operate the Tractor with weak or faulty brakes. When operating down a hill or on wet or rain slick roads, the braking distance increases: use extreme care and reduce your speed. When operating in traffic always use the Tractor’s flashing warning lights and re- duce your speed. Be aware of traffic around you and watch out for the other guy.
Operation Section | |
© 2004 Alamo Group Inc. |
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