Operator’s Manual Victory FMM Series
- Page 25 of 54 -
Version 2.0
5.1.1
Rules for Safe Operation
Most accidents occur because of neglect or carelessness. Keep all helpers and bystanders at least
several hundred feet from an operating Flail mower. Only properly trained people should
operate this machine.
Most accidents involve entanglement on the driveline, injury of bystanders by objects thrown by
the rotating tines, and operators being knocked off the tractor by low-hanging limbs and then
being run over by the mower.
Accidents are most likely to occur with machines loaned or rented to someone who has not read
the Operator’s manual and is
unfamiliar with a Flail mower/mulcher.
◼
If you use the mower in populated areas where thrown objects could injure persons or
property, stop immediately mowing when anyone comes within a hundred feet.
◼
Before starting the tractor, disengage the PTO and place the transmission in neutral.
◼
Do not reach or place any part of your body under the equipment until it is locked and secured
correctly.
◼
Do not operate the mower unless all personnel, livestock, and pets are several hundred feet
away to prevent injury by thrown objects.
◼
Never operate tractors and mowers under trees with low-hanging limbs. Operators can be
knocked off the tractor and run over by the rotating tines.
◼
The rotating parts of this machine have been designed and tested for rugged use. However,
they could fail upon impact with heavy, solid objects such as steel guardrails and concrete
abutments. Such impact could cause the broken things to be thrown outward at very high
velocities.
◼
Stop the Flail mower/mulcher and tractor immediately upon striking an obstruction. Turn the
engine off, remove the ignition key, and inspect and repair any damage before resuming
operation.
◼
Stay alert for uneven terrain, holes, rocks, roots, and other hidden hazards. Keep away from
drop-offs and dangers that could cause a rollover. Use extreme care and maintain minimum
ground speed when transporting or operating on hillsides, over rough ground and when
working close to ditches or fences. Be careful and slow down when turning sharp corners and
changing direction on slopes. Do not start or stop suddenly on slopes. Avoid operation on steep
slopes. In highly uneven terrain, rear-wheel weights, front tractor weight, and/or tire ballast
must be used to improve stability.
◼
Pass the Flail mower/mulcher diagonally through sharp dips and avoid sharp drops to prevent
‘hanging up’ tractor and mower. Practice will improve your skills in maneuvering on rough
terrain. Always cut down slopes, never across the face. Always check the tractor
’s
User manual
for proper use on slopes.
◼
A minimum of 20% of tractor and equipment weight must be on the tractor's front wheels
when using the mower. Without this weight, the tractor could tip over, causing personal injury
or death.
You can attain the weight with a front-end loader, front-wheel weights, ballast in the tires, or
front tractor weights. You must not exceed the ROPS weight certification when attaining a
minimum of 20% tractor and equipment weight on the front wheels. Weigh the tractor and
equipment. Never guess or estimate!
