My first time was on a big tractor when I was about 8 or 9 years old. I progressed to running a 2 disc plow and then a multi disc and harrow. Didn't have a loader in those days, and I didn't hook or unhook the equipment.
When I first got my Gravely, I headed off down a little trail through my woods behind the house. I ended up IN the woods and had a heck of a time getting it back out. Decided the thing (12 hp; the 8s were probably okay without) needed steering brakes. Got those and eventually ended up with dual wheels in an attempt to make it usable on these hills.
The little 4wd JD was a BIG improvement, but two of my carriage house doors bear scars before I learned NOT to maneuver the FEL while within or near the doorways.
Also learned to give the
PTO a tug to and fro to make sure it snapped into place. Had it come off and come apart while running the brush hog because I didn't have it secured.
I've also learned the value of parking implements on something (like pieces of wood or dollies) to allow them to be moved. First I dropped the brush hog and took it off, I had a terrible time getting it off and then back on with it just sitting on the ground.
Ralph