Ballast How Many Degrees of Side Tilt is Safe?

[beppington]

Mowing that steep hillside looks pretty uncomfortable ... it needs a self-leveling seat :thumbsup:

 

[Bird]

Mowing that steep hillside looks pretty uncomfortable ... it needs a self-leveling seat :thumbsup:

I think those have a self-leveling seat. The town I live in has one for mowing on slopes and that self-leveling seat is one thing they've had some problems with, but overall, it's a good machine.

 

[SpringHollow]

It does have a self leveling seat. I readjusted mine and it has worked pretty well ever since. They might have leaking seals on some of the cylinders in their system that have a higher priority.

Ken

 

[farmacist]

Instead of spending your time watching your inclinometer spend your time watching where you are going AND more importantly spend an hour widening your rear wheelbase out to its MAXIMUM width. In that way you will be able to come home each evening to your family. Stay safe, Frank.

 

[MiserableOldFart]

There are also spacers available to move your rear tires a few inches wider than their maximum width, though not for the TC26DA, that I have seen. They're not cheap, but I'd consider them if they were available.

 

[bstrom]

I like the inclinometer because it tells you when you are at 15 degrees and unless you know the ground well you probably should not go over that in my opinion. I used to get scared at probably around 10 before I had it, now I can get around in the woods better. I think you should still go with your instinct and what feels safe to you but it is a good reality check I think.

 

[Bigfoot62]

I consider inclinometers like a good movie. They're fun to watch, but it's all make-believe. I think an inclinometer can give you a false sense of security. A wheel can drop in a hole or you can hit a small rock on the high side at speed that will cause the tractor to tip. I would say to go ahead and get the inclinometer and find out where your body's "pucker meter" is calibrated. However, don't make any assumptions. Even loose or slippery soil on an incline can allow your tractor to slide sideways. Things get goofy in a hurry. If you aren't careful, you can be discussing your spiffy new inclinometer with the ambulance crew.:confused2:

Jim, that was informative and funny! :laughing: Thanks.

The maximum standard ditch slope for a state or interstate highway right-of-way is 3:1, or 30 degrees. That said, consequently there are a lot of R-O-W areas that aren't mowed. If there is any erosion or soft spots at all, a 30 degree slope is not just dangerous, it's downright treacherous! Furthermore, most tractors that are set up for R-O-W mowing will have the wheels set to the widest point and wont' be carrying any attachments that make them more top-heavy. (like a FEL)

 

[mostly_gas]

Inclines are not the only problem when it comes to roll-over accidents. Know of two deaths caused by improper chain use (attached too high on tractor) and another just hitting an obstacle. It is really necessary to pay attention to what you are doing, not just one gauge.

 

[BroBro]

There are also spacers available to move your rear tires a few inches wider than their maximum width, though not for the TC26DA, that I have seen. They're not cheap, but I'd consider them if they were available.

Here is where you can get a set for all tractor's .
Kubota John Deere Compact Tractor Utility Vehicle Wheel Spacers
They are custom made.
I just purchased a set for my JD 3203.
Not cheap $420.00.
But much cheaper than a funeral .
Most guy's wife and kid's would be glad to pay for them concidering the alternative !!!!

 

[jinman]

The maximum standard ditch slope for a state or interstate highway right-of-way is 3:1, or 30 degrees. That said, consequently there are a lot of R-O-W areas that aren't mowed.

A few years ago, I saw a tractor laying on its side and a batwing mower hanging over a retainer wall with cones on the shoulder around it to prevent anyone stopping directly under it to rubber neck. The slope that tractor was laying on was twice as steep as I would ever go on purpose. From what I saw, it looked like a soil slide (like a mudslide) had caused the accident.

I often see tracks of tractors on each side of overpasses where they went more sideways than up and down. I don't mind going going up slopes so steep I lose traction, but it will be a hot day at the North Pole before I drive sideways along those slopes like the mowers do on a regular basis. I'll just get a thrill being a spectator.