Safely Operating A Tractor On A Slope

If you’ve never driven a tractor, it might be hard to imagine just how challenging the simple act of going up or down a hill can be when you are driving farm equipment. Sometimes, however, it’s just unavoidable that your tractor has to deal with a slope. That is why Twin Hills Equipment has created this handy guide to safely operating your tractor on slanted terrain.

Operating Tips

As always, consulting the owner’s manual is a good idea. Be sure to check the manuals of both your tractor and any attachments you may using at the time you are navigating the slope. No matter what, always wear your seat belt and ensure your Roll Over Protection System (ROPS) is in the “up” position before attempting the slope.

While tractors are built to be safe and stable, there are a few rules to follow. Remember the overturns are one of the most common forms of tractor accident, and they can occur even on flat level surfaces. You should utilize proper operating techniques at all times, and be extra careful on any slopes you encounter.

Tips For Better Stability

Tractors are more stable when properly configured and ballasted, as outlined in the owner’s manual. It may be safer to run the tractor up and down the slope rather than across. Remember that loose debris can make a slope slippery even in dry conditions, so clear the area by hand if necessary. If there are too many fixed obstacles that cannot be removed like trees or boulders, you may have to forgo using the tractor.

Remember that tractors handle differently than cars, especially in how they brake. Setting your tractor to four-wheel drive and a lower gear can give you more control over the tractor as you go through the slope. When operating on a slope, stay in gear and avoid stopping, starting, making directional changes or performing headland turns. If you are using a front-end loader on a slope, try to keep it as low as possible at all times because raising the loader can significantly increase the risk of roll-over.

We here at Twin Hills Equipment hope this information helps you safely navigate any and all slopes you encounter while operating your tractor. For more information or to view tractor models, visit us at our dealership in Byhalia, Missouri. We are proud to serve customers from the Memphis, Tennessee area, as well as guests from places closer by, like Marshall and Benton Counties.