Slope Operation - Exmark Lazer Z Operator's Manual

Safety
• Use extreme care when loading or unloading the
machine into a trailer or truck.
• Use care when approaching blind corners, shrubs,
trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.

Slope Operation

• Slopes are a major factor related to loss of control
and rollover accidents, which can result in severe
injury or death. The operator is responsible for
safe slope operation. Operating the machine on
any slope requires extra caution. Before using the
machine on a slope, the operator must:
– Review and understand the slope instructions
in the manual and on the machine.
– Use an angle indicator to determine the
approximate slope angle of the area.
– Never operate on slopes greater than 15
degrees.
– Evaluate the site conditions of the day to
determine if the slope is safe for machine
operation. Use common sense and good
judgment when performing this evaluation.
Changes in the terrain, such as moisture, can
quickly affect the operation of the machine
on a slope.
• Identify hazards at the base of the slope. Do
Not operate the machine near drop offs, ditches,
embankments, water or other hazards. The
machine could suddenly roll over if a wheel goes
over the edge or the edge collapses. Keep a safe
distance (twice the width of the machine) between
the machine and any hazard. Use a walk behind
machine or a hand trimmer to mow the grass in
these areas.
1. Safe Zone-Use the mower here on slopes less than 15
degrees
2. Danger Zone-Use a walk-behind mower and/or hand
trimmer on slopes greater than 15 degrees
3. Water
4. W=width of the machine
5. Keep a safe distance (twice the width of the machine)
between the machine and any hazard.
• Avoid starting, stopping or turning the machine
on slopes. Avoid making sudden changes in speed
or direction; turn slowly and gradually.
• Do Not operate a machine under any conditions
where traction, steering or stability is in question.
Be aware that operating the machine on wet grass,
across slopes or downhill may cause the machine
to lose traction. Loss of traction to the drive
wheels may result in sliding and a loss of braking
and steering. The machine can slide even if the
drive wheels are stopped.
• Remove or mark obstacles such as ditches, holes,
ruts, bumps, rocks or other hidden hazards. Tall
grass can hide obstacles. Uneven terrain could
overturn the machine.
• Use extra care while operating with accessories
or attachments, such as grass collection systems.
These can change the stability of the machine
and cause a loss of control. Follow directions for
counter weights.
• If possible, keep the deck lowered to the ground
while operating on slopes. Raising the deck while
operating on slopes can cause the machine to
become unstable.
8
Figure 3
g221745