8999145EN: v1 26/02/2020
17
Original instructions (ENGLISH)
Website: www.spearheadmachinery.com
WARNING!
Failure to have sufficient load over the front axle or to drive at inappropriate speeds on
undulating terrain may result in a loss of directional control.
If ballast weights have been added to the prime mover, check that the plated prime mover axle loads have not
been exceeded.
IMPORTANT:
When transporting on the highway, it is the responsibility of the operator to obey all
relevant local highway laws.
2.8
Working On Inclined Ground
The ballast instructions in Section 2.7 are sufficient for level ground operation.
Be aware that when working on inclined ground changes in the prime mover centre of gravity can adversely
affect the overall stability. As the cutting unit is extended with the arm deployed downhill additional ballast will be
required on the rear offside wheel to compensate.
There is naturally a limit to a safe amount of ballast compensation that can be applied for a given prime mover
unit and a given incline. If compensating ballast is applied and the compensated axle must be driven on the
public highway to reach the work site the operator should ensure that the plated axle load is not exceeded.
Remember, a mower arm represents a significant mass which can generate a significant amount of inertia when
moved at speed. Stopping this inertia suddenly can induce overturning reactions.
DANGER!
When working on inclined ground avoid high speed hydraulic movements which could cause
overturning.
2.9
Working On Embankments
Sudden potholes at speed can quickly cause the prime mover to change direction. At the same time the weight
of the implement may try to lift the front axle. This is a potentially lethal combination when working along narrow
embankments or dykes and can lead to overturning and potential drowning.
When working on top of embankments it is very important to have sufficient forward stability to ensure rapid
steerage control. Spearhead recommend 20% forward stability. This means that at least 20% of the total
vehicle weight is acting on the steering axle under normal level conditions.
DANGER!
When working on raised embankments ensure sufficient weight is on the steering wheels.
2.10 Safety Decals
Safety decals are located on various points of the machine see Figure 2.4a for an example cutting unit
attachment and Figure 2.4b for the Twiga Carrier. They can be identified by the yellow upper panel depicting the
hazard, and the lower white panel indicating means of avoidance or precautions to be taken. These decals have
no text. It is essential that all operators and personnel associated with the machine fully understand their
meanings, which are shown in Figure 26.
Safety decals should be kept clean and legible at all times. Any safety decals which are found to be missing or
illegible should be replaced.