HUSTLER TrimStar, Operator'S Manual, Page: 9 / 46

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Using a Ramp

Exercise extreme caution when loading and unloading
a mower 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 mower frame to con-
tact if the unit starts to tip backwards. It also reduces
the risk of a wheel going off and the mower 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 when on a ramp.
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. If you cannot back the mower up the
slope or if you feel uneasy on the slope; do not mow it.
REMINDER: Only operate on slopes of 15 degrees or less.

Use extreme caution when operating on slopes.
• Be extremely careful changing directions on a
slope. Slow down.
• Do not operate where the machine could slip or
tip.
• Do not operate the TrimStar
®
mower on slopes
when using a stand-up sulky.
• Turn slowly.

To check a slope, attempt to back up it. If the unit can
back up the slope without the operator and drive
wheels slipping, reduce ground speed and proceed
with caution.

Always be sure of your footing. Keep a firm hold on the
H-Bar handle and walk - never run.

Block or chock the machine when parked on a slope or
when trailering.

Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks or other hidden
objects. Uneven terrain could overturn the mower. Tall
grass can hide obstacles.

Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.

Keep all movement on slopes slow and gradual. Do not
make sudden changes in speed or direction.

Avoid starting and stopping on a slope. If tires lose
traction, disengage the mower blades and proceed
slowly straight down the slope.

Never operate the machine on a slope from a position
below the mower.

Do not mow on wet grass. Slippery conditions reduce
traction which could cause sliding and loss of control.

Avoid starting and stopping on a slope. If tires lose
traction, disengage the mower blades and proceed
slowly straight down the slope.

The Hustler
®
mower is capable of operating horizon-
tally (traverse) on moderately steep slopes. When
operating on slopes up to 15 degrees, be aware of any
conditions that may cause the mower drive tires to
lose traction resulting in a possible loss of control of
the mower. An operator should not operate on a slope
until he is thoroughly familiar with the equipment.
Do not operate on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
Refer to the Slope Guide , when determining the degree
of slope to be mowed.
It is strongly recommended that the operator drive the
mower off of the slope slowly, using extreme caution,
if any sign of loss of traction is detected. Wait until the
condition that caused the problem is resolved before
attempting to operate on the slope again.
Terrain conditions can affect traction resulting in pos-
sible loss of control of the mower. Some of the condi-
tions to be aware of are:
• Wet terrain
• Depressions in the ground; i.e. holes, ruts, wash-
outs
• Mounds of dirt
• Soil type; i.e. sand, loose dirt, gravel, clay
• Grass type, density, and height
• Extremely dry conditions of grass
• Tire pressure
Any attachments mounted to the mower will also
affect the way it handles on a slope. Be aware that
each attachment’s characteristics vary.
Another consideration for safe mowing on slopes is to
be aware of what is located at the bottom of the slope.
Extreme caution should be used when there is a haz-
ard located at the bottom of the slope. Some examples
are:
• Water; i.e. lake, river
• Cliffs, retaining walls
• Roads, highways
• Buildings
• Rocks
These are just a few examples of situations when cau-
tion must be used when operating on a slope. There
are many other possibilities too numerous to mention.
Just remember to always exercise extreme caution
when operating on any slope.
Children
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the
presence of children. Children are often attracted to the mower
and the mowing activity. Never assume that children will remain
where you last saw them.

Never leave the mower unattended with the ignition
key in the switch, especially with children present.