Operating Tips - Toro Reelmaster 3100-D Series Operator's Manual

Operating Tips

General Tips for Model 03171
DANGER
The mower has a unique traction system that
allows the machine to move forward on side
hills, even if the uphill wheel should come
off the ground. If this should happen, you or
any bystanders could be seriously injured or
killed in a rollover.
The slope angle at which the machine tips
depends on many factors. Among these are
mowing conditions such as wet or undulating
turf, speed (especially in turns), position
of the cutting units (with Sidewinder), tire
pressure, and operator experience.
At side hill angles of 15 degrees or less, the
risk of a rollover is low. As the slope angle
increases to a recommended maximum limit
of 25 degrees, the risk of a rollover increases
to a moderate level. Do not exceed a 20
degree side hill slope angle because the risk
of a rollover and serious injury or death is
very high.
To determine which hills or slopes you may
safely operate on, you must conduct a site
survey of the mowing area. When performing
this site survey, always use common sense
and take into consideration the turf condition
and the rollover risk. To determine which hills
or slopes may be safely operated on, use the
inclinometer provided with each machine. To
perform a site survey, lay a 1.25 m plank (4
ft 2 x 4) on the slope surface and measure
the angle of the slope. The 1.25 m plank (4 ft
2 x 4) averages the slope but does not take
into consideration dips or holes, which can
cause a sudden change in side hill angle. The
maximum side hill angle should not be greater
than 20 degrees.
Additionally, the machine is equipped with an
angle indicator mounted on the steering tube.
This indicates the side hill angle the machine
is on and identifies the recommended
maximum limit of 25 degrees.
•
Practice operating the machine and become
thoroughly familiar with it.
•
Start the engine and run it at half idle until it warms
up. Push the throttle lever all the way forward, lift
the cutting units, disengage the parking brake,
press the forward traction pedal, and carefully
drive to an open area.
•
Practice moving forward and in reverse, and
starting and stopping the machine. To stop the
machine, take your foot off the traction pedal and
let it return to neutral or press down on the reverse
pedal to stop. Going down a hill, you may need to
use the reverse pedal to stop.
•
When driving on slopes, drive slowly to maintain
steering control and avoid turns to prevent
rollovers. In side hill situations you should shift
the sidewinder cutting units to the uphill side to
give you more stability. Conversely, shifting the
cutting units to the down hill side will give you less
stability. This should always be done before going
on a side hill.
•
When possible, mow up and down hills rather than
across them. Have the cutting units lowered when
going down a hill to maintain steering control. Do
not attempt to turn on a hill.
•
Practice driving around obstacles with the cutting
units up and down. Be careful when driving
between objects so that you do not damage the
machine or cutting units.
•
Get a feel for the reach of the cutting units so that
you do not hang them up or damage them in any
way.
•
Do not shift the units from side to side, unless the
cutting units are down and the machine is moving,
or the cutting units are up in the transport position.
Shifting the cutting units when they are down and
the machine is not moving may damage the turf.
•
Always drive slowly in rough areas.
•
If a person appears in or near the operating area,
stop the machine, and do not start it again until the
area is cleared. The machine is designed for 1
person. Never let anyone else ride on the machine
with you. This is extremely dangerous and could
result in serious injury.
•
Accidents can happen to anyone. The most
common causes are excessive speed, sudden
turns, terrain (not knowing which slopes and hills
can be mowed safely), not stopping the engine
before leaving the operator's seat, and drugs
that impair your alertness. Cold capsules or
prescription drugs may cause drowsiness, as can
alcohol and other drugs. Stay alert and stay safe.
Failure to do so could result in serious injury.
•
Do not operate the mower if tired, ill, or under the
influence of alcohol or drugs.
•
The Sidewinder offers up to a maximum of 33 cm
(13 inches) of overhang, allowing you to trim closer
to the edge of sand traps and other obstacles,
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