Third time my tractor nearly killed me

[Oldoak]

The third time? I'd opt for different equipment, or leave it to mother nature.

Sooner or later, bad stuff will catch up to you. A roll over is not something to be taken lightly. You hit a dip at 20mph with that speed and weight, you can easily roll over. Rear wheels leave contact with the ground, no brakes for you.

I'm with you on that. Also with the rear wheels lock up and sliding, there's not much steering control. Could just as easily slid sideways and flipped over. Perhaps more than once, even with a roll bar, going down a hill that steep and at that speed. :shocked:

 

[oosik]

I would have serious concerns about mowing any area that was so steep. You will seldom get a second chance if the tractor rolls.

 

[riptides]

I would have serious concerns about mowing any area that was so steep. You will seldom get a second chance if the tractor rolls.

Second chance? Assuming your intact with mental and physical traits after the first one.

Three times? The OP needs to play the lottery, the OP is Teflon.

 

[Code54]

I know that everyone's circumstances are different, but I for one am a believer in only taking my tractors out of 4x4 when need be, such as on a paved road. Other than that I leave my machines in 4x4 mode. I would rather accept the minimal addition wear and tear than be caught in 2wd with a problem. I would bet that my 75hp tractor hasn't been out of 4x4 mode 10 times in the last 12 years.

Totally agree - we always work on steep ground and figure I can live with the little extra wear over a death ride down the hill

 

[Wagtail]

If you're regularly working the tractor on steep grades, even in 4WD, I'd suggest reversing your front wheels. The 'opposite' tyre tread helps.

 

[Ron50]

Even if your gearbox is in neutral, 4 wheel drive is still 4 wheel brakes.

 

[MtnViewRanch]

Even if your gearbox is in neutral, 4 wheel drive is still 4 wheel brakes.

EXACTLY

 

[vvanders]

Even if your gearbox is in neutral, 4 wheel drive is still 4 wheel brakes.

I've never thought about that but it makes complete sense. I always keep it in 4x4 except on pavement but glad to know there's other benefits as well.

 

[Utopia Texas]

One of the things I like about my NH T4.75 is that when you apply the brakes the unit automatically goes into 4 wheel drive even if you are in 2 wheel drive before applying the brakes.

 

[MtnViewRanch]

One of the things I like about my NH T4.75 is that when you apply the brakes the unit automatically goes into 4 wheel drive even if you are in 2 wheel drive before applying the brakes.

Now that is SUPER COOL.