HUSTLER MDV Operator's Manual page 9

 Do not change the engine governor setting or over
speed the engine. Operating the engine at excessive
speed may increase the hazard of personal injury.
 Always be aware of what is behind the vehicle before
backing up. Always look down and behind before and
while backing up.
 Slow down before turning and maintain an even speed
through the turn.
 Braking suddenly may cause loss of vehicle control
and/or load shifting.
 Do not make sharp turns. Sharp turns increase the
chance of tipping or loss of control.
 Avoid rapid movement of the steering wheel as it
increases the chance of tipping or loss of control espe-
cially when operating at high speeds.
 Never attempt high speed maneuvering, especially in
crowded or congested areas.
 Never carry more passengers than there are seats and
seat belts available.
• In addition to the driver, only one (1) passenger
should ride in the vehicle.
 Always wear the seat belt when operating or riding in
this vehicle.
• Do not operate unless the operator and passen-
ger are properly positioned in their respective
seat and seat belt appropriately fastened with
only one person per seat belt.
• All passengers, including the operator, should be
able to sit with their back against the seat and a
firm grasp on the steering wheel or a designated
grab handle.
• Not using the seat belt could result in injury or
death during an accident or sudden change in
speed or direction.
 Never operate the vehicle with passengers in the cargo
bed or any position other than the designated seating
positions.
 Use care when approaching blind corners, shrubs,
trees, or other objects that may obscure your vision.
 Never attempt to drive over large obstacles such as
large rocks or fallen trees.
 Before operating in an unfamiliar area:
• Check for hidden obstacles or hazards.
• Reduce the vehicle speed.
• Use existing trails and avoid hazardous areas
such as steep, rocky slopes or swamps.
 Drive slowly and carefully when unsure or unprepared
for the surface.
Operating a Damaged Vehicle
 Operating a vehicle that has become damaged in some
way can result in an accident.
606653
 An authorized Hustler
cle after any type of accident to make certain the vehi-
cle is in an approved operating condition. All damaged
parts must be repaired or replaced.
Using a Ramp
 Exercise extreme caution when loading and unloading
this vehicle onto a truck or trailer with a ramp.
 Use only a single, full width ramp; do not use individual
ramps for each side of the unit. Having a full width
ramp provides a surface for the vehicle's wheels to
contact if the vehicle starts to slide backwards. It also
reduces the risk of a wheel going off and the vehicle
tipping over.
 Do not exceed a 15 degree angle between the ramp
and the ground or between the ramp and the trailer or
truck.
 Avoid sudden acceleration.
Slope Operation
Slopes are a major factor in loss-of-control and tip-over acci-
dents, which can result in severe injury or death. All slopes
require extra caution. Drive slowly!
When operating on a slope be sure to choose the appropriate
traction control selection for the best traction.
®
 The Hustler
tally (traverse) on moderately steep slopes. When
operating horizontally on slopes, be aware of any con-
ditions that may cause the vehicle tires to lose trac-
tion resulting in a possible loss of control. An operator
should not operate on a slope until he is thoroughly
familiar with the vehicle.
Do not operate on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
 The OPS may reduce the chance of injury or death from
rollover. The seat belt must be fastened while operating
the vehicle. Failure to use a seat belt with
in serious injury in the event of a roll over.
 Use extreme caution when operating on slopes.
• Practice on smaller slopes before attempting to
operate on larger slopes. Never operate this vehi-
cle on slopes that are too steep for your abilities.
• 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 or when going over rough ter-
rain.
• Be extremely careful changing directions on a
slope. Slow down.
• Do not operate where the vehicle could slip or tip.
• Turn slowly.
• Turn on the most level part of the slope.
2-3
Dealer must inspect this vehi-
®
MDV™ is capable of operating horizon-
OPS may result
REV A