HUSTLER MDV Operator's Manual page 28

Slope Operation
For more slope safety information refer to the Slope Operation
section located in the Safety Precautions section of this manual.
Climbing Slopes
Do not attempt to climb slopes until you are thoroughly
familiar with the vehicle's controls and handling on flat
ground.
Do not operate on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
The vehicle is more stable when it is driven straight up or
down a slope. Keep the front wheels straight when going
over the crest of a slope.
Never start or stop suddenly when going up a slope. Do not
accelerate suddenly as the front wheels may come off the
ground.
Do not drive up a slope where you cannot see what is in
front of you. If you cannot see over the crest of the hill, slow
down until you can.
If the slope is steep and/or if the ground is loose, it may be
necessary to shift the transmission to a different setting to
provide greater traction. Refer to the Traction Control Switch
Operation section for detailed information.
If vehicle loses power or stops when going up a hill:
• Engage the park brake to stabilize the vehicle.
• Keep the front wheels straight and slowly disen-
gage the park brake.
• Slowly back straight down the slope using the
brakes to control your speed.
• Do not allow the front wheels to turn sideways.
Descending Slopes
Before going down a slope, slow down or stop at the top.
Visually select the straightest and safest path and then pro-
ceed down the slope. Driving straight down the hill will pro-
vide the safest route as driving at an angle could result in the
vehicle flipping over. Proceed slowly and cautiously and
apply the brakes as necessary.
Never stop suddenly when going down a slope. This action
may result in a reaction of the vehicle that can cause serious
physical injury.
Exercise caution if the ground surface is loose as the tires
may lose traction. Braking effectiveness will be reduced in
this situation.
IMPORTANT: The vehicle does not have engine braking.
When the throttle pedal is released and the engine speed
slows to idle, the vehicle's transmission disengages and
releases the engine to prevent it from stalling. Use the brakes
to control the vehicle's speed.
REV A
Traversing Slopes
This vehicle is capable of operating horizontally (traverse)
on moderately steep slopes. When operating horizontally on
slopes, be aware of any conditions that may cause the vehi-
cle tires to lose traction resulting in a possible loss of con-
trol.
When driving on soft terrain, it may be necessary to turn
the front wheels slightly uphill to keep the vehicle traveling in
a straight line.
Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks or other hidden
objects. Uneven terrain could overturn the vehicle. Tall grass
can hide obstacles.
If the vehicle begins to tip turn the front wheels downhill
and proceed to drive slowly down the slope, if possible.
Sliding and Skidding
Special care should be taken when operating on slippery or
loose surfaces. Slippery conditions reduce traction which
could cause sliding and loss of control.
A sliding vehicle creates a hazard when it suddenly starts
to slide or skid. Be careful when driving the vehicle if the con-
ditions are right to cause slippery conditions. During a slide
or skid the vehicle's tires may suddenly regain traction which
could result in further loss of control.
If you find yourself in a skid turn the front wheels in the
direction of the skid. Do not brake suddenly or forcefully as
this could further exasperate the situation.
Clay, mud, ice, or snow surfaces are particularly hazardous
to vehicle operation. Use caution and slow down when oper-
ating in these conditions. Use the traction control selection
and gear selection for maximum traction and control.
Driving through Water
Avoid driving through water whenever possible. Never
cross any body of water where the depth is unknown. Never
operate the vehicle in water that is deeper than the center of
the tire.
IMPORTANT: Major vehicle damage can occur if the vehi-
cle has been immersed in water that is higher than the center
of the tires. Take the vehicle promptly to an authorized Hus-
tler Dealer for proper service. Do not start the engine!
®
Before driving through water:
• Check for rocks, holes or other obstacles that may
cause the vehicle to overturn, become stuck or sub-
merged.
• Determine water depths and current.
• Choose a path where both banks have a gradual
incline and are not too slippery.
The wheel bearings may require maintenance or replace-
ment after prolonged water exposure.
After the brakes have been exposed to water apply enough
brake pressure to dry out the brake linings. Brakes that have
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