How to Use a Riding Lawn Tractor on Slopes

A riding lawn mower greatly reduces the effort required to mow a hilly lawn. It also poses some safety risks if not done properly. Along with the specialized safety precautions concerning operations on slopes the user must understand and follow general lawn mower safety rules. However, users who follow the guidelines experience few problems while mowing sloped lawns.

Instructions

1. Check the sloped area for obstacles. Tall grass hides holes or rocks until the last second. Sharp turns to avoid obstacles are not advised.

2. Confirm the grass is dry. Wet grass is slippery reducing traction. This can lead to the mower sliding down the hill out of control.

3. Mow only up or down the slope, but never across. Start in a low gear. Stopping and shifting gears can cause the mower to roll down the hill. Traveling at a slow speed on the slope also improves stability.

4. Avoid edges or embankments. Sharp embankments can cave in causing the lawn mower to roll. Getting to close to the edge of any uneven terrain can catch the front tire and pull the lawn tractor toward the obstacle, increasing the danger.

Tips & Warnings

• Use the engine as a break going downhill. While shifting into neutral allows gravity to move the mower along on the downhill sections it can lead to high speeds and problems controlling the mower. Keep the mower in gear while going downhill.

• While sticking your foot out seems like a natural reaction to an unstable machine it is dangerous. If the mower is moving, your foot may catch on the ground and drag you off the lawn tractor. It also puts your foot close to the blades of the mower and in harms way.

References

• Consumer Protection Safety Council: Lawn Mower Safety
• West Virginia University: Safety and Health