I was in similar noob role a couple of years ago. my field mowing uses a rotary cutter on L3560. I follow the advise of those on back and forward up incline, 4wd, low and slow, dry conditions, front end loader down and avoiding sudden momentum and directional changes (holes, sudden braking). I also watch the rpms on the PTO to understand how hard the cutter is working (offers resistance to the tractor pulling the cutter up the hill and potentially torques the front end to come up a bit) and also gauge slow speed based on that (sound/listending also works). Seatbelt always! On my first cutting expeditions, I would plan out the mode of attack based on the field inclines and where big rocks are, trees, etc. The flat part of the field is a holiday. If in a new situation to cautiously work into, I go into it backwards Very slowly.So I finally took delivery of my Kubota B2301 with underbelly mower. I've had a go at mowing our 2 acres of pasture, half of which is pretty steep (20-25 degrees). I mowed straight up and down the slope as advised, following the manual's advice to back up the slopes rather than drive head first up hill. Hitting slight depressions and lumps at that angle is enough to make the tractor feel like it's getting close to rolling over, though. It was a little scary at times.
So any tips for a newbie mowing slopes would be appreciated!
I couple of specific questions:
1. The tractor came equipped with a loader + bucket, and I also have a box blade and a rotary-tiller (not yet connected). Is it best to mow slopes with or without these attachments? I did wonder whether having the loader on the front might give it some extra front weight so I could mow forward up the hill, rather than backing up the hills. Am I correct? Also, if I put the tiller / box blade on the back and keep it low to the ground, won't this also help prevent the tractor from tipping over backwards when mowing forward up a hill?
2. Is it possible to space the wheels wider on this tractor? Is it an expensive upgrade? Would this make much off a noticeable difference to its stability on slopes?
3. If I do tip the tractor over, will the ROPS and seatbelt save me, or is there still a good chance of getting killed? Will tipping the tractor over damage the tractor / mower at all?