Yes or No

[TripleR]

Like LD1, just too many variables on tractors and terrain for me to make a generalization. We run four tractors from 26 to 85 HP and each is just a bit different as to effect. Some of it is also subjective. I hate mowing any slopes with a FEL on our BX, but my son in law has never taken his off, uses no counter weight or ballast in the tires and he mows some really steep stuff; not a flat place on his property.

 

[90cummins]

Keep the bucket on and approx 2~6" off the ground.
Years ago I mowed a ski area putting my machine (Ford 1720 4x4) into situations I would never do again.
The bucket provided counter balance when going up extremely steep hills helping to keep the front wheels on the ground.
Again as I said I would never mow areas as steep again but being young and needing the $ you do things that shouldn稚 be done.
The bucket served several uses when mowing. Rolled back and low to the ground it would hit hidden rocks & objects that could damage the tractor or mower.
It also saved my tractor from falling into an old well that was covered with boards. As I was mowing 1 front wheel fell into the hole but the bucket prevented the front end from falling in.
The bucket is also useful for pushing yourself out of hidden holes or mud and is also useful as an additional means to prevent the tractor from rolling down a hill by digging the edge into the ground.
Please note that when mowing down hill with a bucket if your wheels loose traction and you start to slide down the slope keep the wheels straight, do not touch the brakes and make sure the bucket is high enough (4~6? so it does not touch the ground. The front wheels must remain in contact in order to maintain control straight down the hill until the slope lessens and you can stop safely. Getting sideways will result in rolling the tractor down the mountain!
The loader frame may also give the operator a larger safely zone in the event of a rollover.
Tim

 

[TripleR]

Here are some threads: http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/owning-operating/222339-need-advice-mowing-slope.html

http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/kubota-owning-operating/217424-tractor-mountains.html

http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/owning-operating/216495-operating-hilly-ground-you-level.html

http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/owning-operating/217346-tips-brush-hogging-steep-hill.html

http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/owning-operating/199464-slopes-tractor-tilt.html

 

[jbrumberg]

This topic was discussed at least once to my knowledge. I leave mine own and operate it in "4X4" as advised by previous "carrying" posters. I do not like any form of wet slope. One never knows when a FEL will be needed.

 

[Dr_Zinj]

... if the soles of your shoes are wet after walking the slope, best to stay off it.

If your underwear is wet and stinking after walking it, don't even think of taking a tractor on it.