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Paul in Mich
08-22-2004 08:59:52
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Re: Tricycle. in reply to Ken.Farmall, 08-20-2004 17:46:08
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Ken, I believe that rather than asking what is the slope limit that you can safely operate a tractor, tricicle or not, you should ask yourself what can you do to minimize the risks of roll over. First of all, if you have hilly ground, an ROPS system with seatbelts should be an absolute must. Next, ask what else can be done mechanically. Widen your rear wheels as far as possible without interfereing with your work or door openings. Loaded tires are better than wheel weights of the same weight, as wheel weights don't do anything to improve the center of gravity, while loading tires to just above axle height greatly inproves center of gravity. Wide front ends are better than narrow, and pulling weight to tractor weight ratio should be considered (always have enough tractor to handle the equipment). You can also lessen the slope of many hills by running diagonally as opposed to laterally, although this is not always possible or feasable depending on the contour of the land, but at least worth including in the variables. Very little land unless recently cleared has not been tilled or mowed before, and it is always a good idea to ask the other folks who previously worked the land what they did or didnt do to keep the shiny side up. After you have made all the mechanical adjustments to maximize safety and minimize roll over, the next thing and probably most important thing is use good judgement and common sense, and learn what to do if you find yourself in a perilous situation. YOu don't want to exascerbate the situation for example, by turning the wrong way or in some cases disengaging the equipment when the equipment itself may be a stablizing factor.
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