Precautions For Driving On Slopes - Hitachi ZW 550-6 Operator's Manual

Precautions for Driving on Slopes

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WARNING:
 Never allow the machine to descend a slope with
the forward/reverse switch (or lever) in neutral
(N). This will not only cause the excessive engine
revolutions to malfunction but also cause other
engine and machine troubles.
 When descending a slope, use normal resistance
to travel as exerted by the engine through
the drive train. Apply the brakes only when
absolutely required. If the brake is continuously
used while descending a slope, the brake
temperature will increase, possibly decreasing
braking performance.
If overheating of the brake system is noticed,
immediately park the machine in a safe location.
Restart and operate the machine only after the
brake system is sufficiently cooled.
 When descending a slope, do not operate the
machine at a speed faster than the maximum
travel speed. Failure to do so may damage the
machine and/or a serious accident may result.
When steering on a slope, lower the loader front to
increase the machine stability. Do not steer on a steep
slope since this may cause the machine to turn over.
When descending a slope, descend in a low drive range
with engine resistance applied.
Do not operate the machine at a speed faster than the
maximum travel speed.
In case the engine stalls on a slope, immediately step
on the service brake pedal, lower the loader arms to
the ground and stop the machine. The parking brake
is automatically applied when the engine is stopped
regardless of the position of the parking brake switch.
Before restarting engine, return the forward/reverse switch
to neutral (N) and turn the parking brake switch ON.
 Before descending a slope, confirm that the service
and parking brake systems work normally.
 In case the hydraulic oil and lubricant temperatures
are low, the machine gradability may decrease. Before
climbing a steep slope, warm up the machine.
MOVING THE MACHINE
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