ground logic Pathfinder - 5.3 Operating on Slopes

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5. SLOPE OPERATIONAL SAFETY CONTINUED
5.2 SLOPE OPERATION CONTINUED
Do:
• Operate up and down slopes, NOT across.
• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.
• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could overturn the unit. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
• Use slow speed. Choose a slow speed so that you will not have to stop or change speed while on the
slope.
• Use extra care with accessories. These can change the stability of the unit.
• Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual. Do not make sudden changes in speed or direc-
tion.
• See your authorized dealer for recommendations of available weights to improve stability.
Do NOT:
• Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a slope. If tires lose traction (i.e. machine stops forward motion
on a slope), stop. Get off and walk the machine slowly off the slope.
• Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then, turn slowly and gradually uphill, if possible. Never
operate straight down slopes.
• Do not operate near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. The operator could lose footing or balance
or machine could suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in.
• Do not operate on wet grass. Reduced footing or traction could cause sliding.
• Do not try to stabilize the unit by putting your foot on the ground (ride-on units).
• Do not operate excessively steep slopes.
• Do not operate on slopes if you cannot back up them.
5.3 OPERATING ON SLOPES
Learn how to operate the Pathnder on slopes and use your body position to improve traction and control of
the machine.
Operation on slopes can be dangerous. Slopes are a major factor related to accidents, which can result in se-
vere injury or death. Using the unit on a slope that is too steep where you do not have adequate wheel traction
(and control) can cause sliding, loss of steering, control, and possible rollover. If you feel unsure about operat-
ing the unit on a slope, don’t do it. It’s not worth the risk.
• This machine has a high center of gravity and may become unstable on slopes. Always lean towards
the slope of a hill when operating on slopes and lean towards the center of turn when changing direc-
tions on slopes.
• Operation on wet grass especially when going across or down slopes can cause loss of traction, slid-
ing, loss of steering, control,and possible rollover.