Quote:
|
Originally Posted by 2manyrocks
...I don't know how anyone could really calculate the maximum slope for the effects of momentum, changing terrain, and a bushhog hanging off the back of the tractor....
|
Precisely my point there. Well said. My 49° calculation is only valid in a perfect world, but since we live in this one, you need some serious safety factors in there. I think the 15% grade is a reasonable limit for the average operator. Anything beyond that you'd better know your terrain pretty daggone well and be very good. My uncle mows the steepest hills you can imagine with a Ford 7740 and a huge batwing. Every now and then the thing lets go. He's told me about having to just ride it to the bottom several times. He always says as long as you have a place to land and you can keep your foot of the brake you'll be fine. He's mowed those fields since he was a kid and he still gets nervous every time he has to mow. That's what's kept him alive this long.
Respect it like it can kill you, and you'll likely live to tell about it. Don't and you won't.
