All of the safety topics discussed in this thread are specifically covered in the owner's manual that came with my tractor & loader:
1. REAR BALLAST IS REQUIRED, not optional. Failure to use proper ballast will result in upset or LOSS OF STEERING OR BRAKING CONTROL.
2. ALWAYS BACK DOWN HILLS with loads on the FEL to avoid loss of braking traction on the rear wheels.
3. ENGAGE 4WD when using FEL to ensure braking ability.
4. LOWER THE LOAD TO THE GROUND IMMEDIATELY if control is lost.
5. ALWAYS USE SEATBELT & ROPS.
I think the temptation is to assume that safety warnings don't apply because as a new tractor owner, we won't be getting into the dicey areas where they matter. Then we forget. Its good to go back and re-read the manual as an experienced operator. I was amazed at how many times I was thinking back to a specific stupid operating mistake covered by one of the warnings as if it was written just for me!
- Rick
1. REAR BALLAST IS REQUIRED, not optional. Failure to use proper ballast will result in upset or LOSS OF STEERING OR BRAKING CONTROL.
2. ALWAYS BACK DOWN HILLS with loads on the FEL to avoid loss of braking traction on the rear wheels.
3. ENGAGE 4WD when using FEL to ensure braking ability.
4. LOWER THE LOAD TO THE GROUND IMMEDIATELY if control is lost.
5. ALWAYS USE SEATBELT & ROPS.
I think the temptation is to assume that safety warnings don't apply because as a new tractor owner, we won't be getting into the dicey areas where they matter. Then we forget. Its good to go back and re-read the manual as an experienced operator. I was amazed at how many times I was thinking back to a specific stupid operating mistake covered by one of the warnings as if it was written just for me!
- Rick