Loading The Machines - Toro 74412 Operator's Manual

Loading the Machines

Use extreme caution when loading machines on trailers or
trucks. One full-width ramp that is wide enough to extend
beyond the rear tires is recommended instead of individual
ramps for each side of the machine (Fig. 22). The lower
rear section of the machine frame extends back between the
rear wheels and serves as a stop for tipping backward.
Having a full-width ramp provides a surface for the frame
members to contact if the machine starts to tip backward. If
it is not possible to use one full width ramp, use enough
individual ramps to simulate a full width continuous ramp.
1
1
m–6841
Figure 22
1. Trailer
2. Full width ramp
3. Not greater than
15 degrees
The ramp should be long enough so that the angles do not
exceed 15 degrees (Fig. 22). A steeper angle may cause
mower housing components to get caught as the machine
moves from the ramp to the trailer or truck. Steeper angles
may also cause the machine to tip backward. If loading on
or near a slope, position the trailer or truck so that it is on
the downside of the slope and the ramp extends up the
slope. This will minimize the ramp angle. The trailer or
truck should be as level as possible.
Important
Do not attempt to turn the machine while on
the ramp; you may lose control and drive off the side.
Avoid sudden acceleration when driving up a ramp and
sudden deceleration when backing down a ramp. Both
maneuvers can cause the machine to tip backward.
4
2
3
4. Full width ramp—side
view
23
Warning
Loading a machine onto a trailer or truck
increases the possibility of backward tip over and
could cause serious injury or death.
• Use extreme caution when operating a machine
on a ramp.
• Use only a single, full-width ramp; do not use
individual ramps for each side of the machine.
• If you must use individual ramps, use enough
ramps to create an unbroken ramp surface
wider than the machine.
• 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 while driving the
machine up a ramp to avoid tipping backward.
• Avoid sudden deceleration while backing
machine down a ramp to avoid tipping
backward.