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Help With Slope Ratings
#1
R
rwraysmith
R
rwraysmith
Does anyone know of a quick way to get multiple manufacturers' slope ratings on their zero turns? Thanks!
#2
M
Mad Mackie
M
Mad Mackie
Most if not all ride on mower manufacturers have their operators manuals available on line. The vast majority of zero turn machines have a 15 degree recommended angle limit. There are other specialized machines that are designed to operate at angles greater than 15 degrees and they usually advertise this advantage. Most vertical and horizontal shaft engines with pressurized lube systems have a 25 degree limit of safe operation.
Zero turn machines for the most part steer by controlling the speed and direction of the rear wheels and no control of the front wheels. Because of this, zero turn machines have a tendency to slide sideways on hills when one or both rear/drive tires loses traction albeit for just a short moment.
I mow a place that has 25 degree hills and I carefully back the machine down the hill and mow up the hill. This is time consuming but necessary however, for both the safe operation of the machine and operator.
Zero turn machines for the most part steer by controlling the speed and direction of the rear wheels and no control of the front wheels. Because of this, zero turn machines have a tendency to slide sideways on hills when one or both rear/drive tires loses traction albeit for just a short moment.
I mow a place that has 25 degree hills and I carefully back the machine down the hill and mow up the hill. This is time consuming but necessary however, for both the safe operation of the machine and operator.
#4
R
rwraysmith
Thanks, Mack. I figured that's where the limit was but Snapper is giving me a 20 degree, while all the others are at 15. When I contacted John Deere they couldn't give me an answer. Ventrac has that one machine that can do 30, which seems just crazy, but looking at it in operation, it seems pretty stable.
R
rwraysmith
Most if not all ride on mower manufacturers have their operators manuals available on line. The vast majority of zero turn machines have a 15 degree recommended angle limit. There are other specialized machines that are designed to operate at angles greater than 15 degrees and they usually advertise this advantage. Most vertical and horizontal shaft engines with pressurized lube systems have a 25 degree limit of safe operation.
Zero turn machines for the most part steer by controlling the speed and direction of the rear wheels and no control of the front wheels. Because of this, zero turn machines have a tendency to slide sideways on hills when one or both rear/drive tires loses traction albeit for just a short moment.
I mow a place that has 25 degree hills and I carefully back the machine down the hill and mow up the hill. This is time consuming but necessary however, for both the safe operation of the machine and operator.
Thanks, Mack. I figured that's where the limit was but Snapper is giving me a 20 degree, while all the others are at 15. When I contacted John Deere they couldn't give me an answer. Ventrac has that one machine that can do 30, which seems just crazy, but looking at it in operation, it seems pretty stable.
#5
Ric
Slope ratings can vary depending on the type of ztr you're talking about. It's true that most of the sit down type ztr are rated for 15 degree and can be used on greater than 15 degree if used the way were designed. The Stander type mowers like the Toro Grandstand and some others are rated at 20 degrees and are far less dangerous on slopes than the sit down version.
Ric
Thanks, Mack. I figured that's where the limit was but Snapper is giving me a 20 degree, while all the others are at 15. When I contacted John Deere they couldn't give me an answer. Ventrac has that one machine that can do 30, which seems just crazy, but looking at it in operation, it seems pretty stable.
Slope ratings can vary depending on the type of ztr you're talking about. It's true that most of the sit down type ztr are rated for 15 degree and can be used on greater than 15 degree if used the way were designed. The Stander type mowers like the Toro Grandstand and some others are rated at 20 degrees and are far less dangerous on slopes than the sit down version.
#6
Ric
Why are you asking? Is it a need to know the degree grade or slope that he is mowing before giving a recommendation.
Ric
more important, why do you need to know
Why are you asking? Is it a need to know the degree grade or slope that he is mowing before giving a recommendation.
#7
R
rwraysmith
You both are right, thanks for the feedback. I did get plenty of info from most of the manufacturers I contacted. As a thanks, I'll pass this along, just in case you ever need it:
Ventrac's 4500 is rated for a 30 degree slope. Watching those videos online raises the hackles on the back of my neck.
Snapper's and Walker's mowers are rated for 20 degrees.
Hustler has one rated for 25 degrees.
R
rwraysmith
Slope ratings can vary depending on the type of ztr you're talking about. It's true that most of the sit down type ztr are rated for 15 degree and can be used on greater than 15 degree if used the way were designed. The Stander type mowers like the Toro Grandstand and some others are rated at 20 degrees and are far less dangerous on slopes than the sit down version.
You both are right, thanks for the feedback. I did get plenty of info from most of the manufacturers I contacted. As a thanks, I'll pass this along, just in case you ever need it:
Ventrac's 4500 is rated for a 30 degree slope. Watching those videos online raises the hackles on the back of my neck.
Snapper's and Walker's mowers are rated for 20 degrees.
Hustler has one rated for 25 degrees.
#8
B
bertsmobile1
Not what I asked.
He could have had a problem area that needed an out of the square solution like perhas a 2 stroke because the slope is too steep for a 4 stroke to maintain oil suppy ?
He did not state any problem , just asked how to work out slopes.
Before I look for solutios I generally like to know what the actual problem is.
B
bertsmobile1
Why are you asking? Is it a need to know the degree grade or slope that he is mowing before giving a recommendation.
Not what I asked.
He could have had a problem area that needed an out of the square solution like perhas a 2 stroke because the slope is too steep for a 4 stroke to maintain oil suppy ?
He did not state any problem , just asked how to work out slopes.
Before I look for solutios I generally like to know what the actual problem is.
#9
Ric
I don't know where you got those figures but Hustler slope ratings are 15 degrees unless you buy there ATZ and Snapper site says.. Operation on slopes can be dangerous. Using the unit on a slope that is too steep where you do not have adequate wheel traction (and control) can cause sliding, loss of steering, control, and possible rollover. You should not operate on a slope greater than a 5.4 foot rise over a 20 foot length (15 degrees). Walker mower recommends a maximum15 degree slope or 26% grade.
Ventrac on the other hand isn't a ZTR mower, they're Articulating Tractors with Attachments. The tractor itself weighs between 1300 and 1700 lbs and if you add the mowing attachment it's like another 400 lbs or more depending on size and there AWD so they shouldn't have a problem with slopes.
Ric
You both are right, thanks for the feedback. I did get plenty of info from most of the manufacturers I contacted. As a thanks, I'll pass this along, just in case you ever need it:
Ventrac's 4500 is rated for a 30 degree slope. Watching those videos online raises the hackles on the back of my neck.
Snapper's and Walker's mowers are rated for 20 degrees.
Hustler has one rated for 25 degrees.
I don't know where you got those figures but Hustler slope ratings are 15 degrees unless you buy there ATZ and Snapper site says.. Operation on slopes can be dangerous. Using the unit on a slope that is too steep where you do not have adequate wheel traction (and control) can cause sliding, loss of steering, control, and possible rollover. You should not operate on a slope greater than a 5.4 foot rise over a 20 foot length (15 degrees). Walker mower recommends a maximum15 degree slope or 26% grade.
Ventrac on the other hand isn't a ZTR mower, they're Articulating Tractors with Attachments. The tractor itself weighs between 1300 and 1700 lbs and if you add the mowing attachment it's like another 400 lbs or more depending on size and there AWD so they shouldn't have a problem with slopes.
#10
Ric
I figured it was something to do with that.
Ric
Not what I asked.
He could have had a problem area that needed an out of the square solution like perhas a 2 stroke because the slope is too steep for a 4 stroke to maintain oil suppy ?
He did not state any problem , just asked how to work out slopes.
Before I look for solutios I generally like to know what the actual problem is.
I figured it was something to do with that.
#11
R
Rivets
R
Rivets
Once again this research analyst for an OEM, original equipment manufacturer for mowers, is trying to make us look stupid. He doesn't answer our questions, provides feedback which makes no sense, and when you give feedback he comes up with different answers. Ray, why don't you tell us who you work for, exactly what information you are looking for and how you are going to use it. If we are going to do the work for you, the least you could do is to provide us a reason for helping. There are dozens of individuals on this forum who have the knowledge to provide you with answers, but you must give us a reason to do so. Do you feel that we have nothing better to do with our time? I would be happy to help if I knew why I should take time to do so.
#12
R
rwraysmith
Those slope ratings come directly from the manufacturers, or their owners' manuals. Several of them, when contacted, even sent me .pdfs of their manuals. Thanks.
R
rwraysmith
I don't know where you got those figures but Hustler slope ratings are 15 degrees unless you buy there ATZ and Snapper site says.. Operation on slopes can be dangerous. Using the unit on a slope that is too steep where you do not have adequate wheel traction (and control) can cause sliding, loss of steering, control, and possible rollover. You should not operate on a slope greater than a 5.4 foot rise over a 20 foot length (15 degrees). Walker mower recommends a maximum15 degree slope or 26% grade.
Ventrac on the other hand isn't a ZTR mower, they're Articulating Tractors with Attachments. The tractor itself weighs between 1300 and 1700 lbs and if you add the mowing attachment it's like another 400 lbs or more depending on size and there AWD so they shouldn't have a problem with slopes.
Those slope ratings come directly from the manufacturers, or their owners' manuals. Several of them, when contacted, even sent me .pdfs of their manuals. Thanks.
#13
R
rwraysmith
You're doing fine all by yourself. You don't need my help you cyber-bully you.
R
rwraysmith
Once again this research analyst for an OEM, original equipment manufacturer for mowers, is trying to make us look stupid.
You're doing fine all by yourself. You don't need my help you cyber-bully you.
#14
R
rwraysmith
FROM THE MANUFACTURERS:
1 -
Thank you for contacting Hustler Service.
I have attached a copy of the safety slope information. With the exception of the Super Z ATZ witch is built to handle a 25 degree hill all other Hustler mowers a not to be placed on a slope greater than 15 degrees.
View attachment Slope Safty.pdf
2 -
March 15, 2001
RE: Walker Mower Operation on a Side Slope
Dear Walker Operator:
The following recommendations are made for operating a Walker Mower on a slope or
hill:
When operating on a slope, reduce speed and use caution to start, stop, and
maneuver. Avoid sharp turns or sudden changes in direction. The maximum
recommended side slope operating angle is 20 degrees or 33% grade.
View attachment 2002-05-16-Slope_Safety_Recommendation.pdf
R
rwraysmith
I don't know where you got those figures but Hustler slope ratings are 15 degrees unless you buy there ATZ and Snapper site says.. Operation on slopes can be dangerous. Using the unit on a slope that is too steep where you do not have adequate wheel traction (and control) can cause sliding, loss of steering, control, and possible rollover. You should not operate on a slope greater than a 5.4 foot rise over a 20 foot length (15 degrees). Walker mower recommends a maximum15 degree slope or 26% grade.
Ventrac on the other hand isn't a ZTR mower, they're Articulating Tractors with Attachments. The tractor itself weighs between 1300 and 1700 lbs and if you add the mowing attachment it's like another 400 lbs or more depending on size and there AWD so they shouldn't have a problem with slopes.
FROM THE MANUFACTURERS:
1 -
Thank you for contacting Hustler Service.
I have attached a copy of the safety slope information. With the exception of the Super Z ATZ witch is built to handle a 25 degree hill all other Hustler mowers a not to be placed on a slope greater than 15 degrees.
View attachment Slope Safty.pdf
2 -
March 15, 2001
RE: Walker Mower Operation on a Side Slope
Dear Walker Operator:
The following recommendations are made for operating a Walker Mower on a slope or
hill:
When operating on a slope, reduce speed and use caution to start, stop, and
maneuver. Avoid sharp turns or sudden changes in direction. The maximum
recommended side slope operating angle is 20 degrees or 33% grade.
View attachment 2002-05-16-Slope_Safety_Recommendation.pdf
#15
R
rwraysmith
FROM SNAPPER ITSELF (unedited email response)
3 -
Thank you for contacting Snapper.
All of our units are rated for slops up to 20 degrees.
We do not recommend using any unit on any slop over that.
Mark
R
rwraysmith
I don't know where you got those figures but Hustler slope ratings are 15 degrees unless you buy there ATZ and Snapper site says.. Operation on slopes can be dangerous. Using the unit on a slope that is too steep where you do not have adequate wheel traction (and control) can cause sliding, loss of steering, control, and possible rollover. You should not operate on a slope greater than a 5.4 foot rise over a 20 foot length (15 degrees). Walker mower recommends a maximum15 degree slope or 26% grade.
Ventrac on the other hand isn't a ZTR mower, they're Articulating Tractors with Attachments. The tractor itself weighs between 1300 and 1700 lbs and if you add the mowing attachment it's like another 400 lbs or more depending on size and there AWD so they shouldn't have a problem with slopes.
FROM SNAPPER ITSELF (unedited email response)
3 -
Thank you for contacting Snapper.
All of our units are rated for slops up to 20 degrees.
We do not recommend using any unit on any slop over that.
Mark
#16
Ric
I think you have to consider that since 2001 there have been a lot of changes in ztr mowers. Today's site says Walker mower recommends a maximum.15 degree slope or 26% grade. I would have to go with the most recent information/manual with any mower I purchased.
You can mow most any grade or slope you want but the mower you choose has a lot to do with how you and it will handle a slope. For example look at a Gravely ZTR vs a Toro Z Master mower, I can mow slopes with a Z Master that you'll never touch with a Gravely simply because the Toro is better balanced and has a lower center of gravity.
If you really want to test yourself on a slope try the Toro Grandstand, it will mow grades that the others wont or can't simply because of the set up and a lower center of gravity than most of the other standers. It basically comes down to how much money one is willing to spend.
Ric
FROM THE MANUFACTURERS:
1 -
Thank you for contacting Hustler Service.
I have attached a copy of the safety slope information. With the exception of the Super Z ATZ witch is built to handle a 25 degree hill all other Hustler mowers a not to be placed on a slope greater than 15 degrees.
View attachment 27930
2 -
March 15, 2001
RE: Walker Mower Operation on a Side Slope
Dear Walker Operator:
The following recommendations are made for operating a Walker Mower on a slope or
hill: When operating on a slope, reduce speed and use caution to start, stop, and
maneuver. Avoid sharp turns or sudden changes in direction. The maximum
recommended side slope operating angle is 20 degrees or 33% grade.
View attachment 27929
I think you have to consider that since 2001 there have been a lot of changes in ztr mowers. Today's site says Walker mower recommends a maximum.15 degree slope or 26% grade. I would have to go with the most recent information/manual with any mower I purchased.
You can mow most any grade or slope you want but the mower you choose has a lot to do with how you and it will handle a slope. For example look at a Gravely ZTR vs a Toro Z Master mower, I can mow slopes with a Z Master that you'll never touch with a Gravely simply because the Toro is better balanced and has a lower center of gravity.
If you really want to test yourself on a slope try the Toro Grandstand, it will mow grades that the others wont or can't simply because of the set up and a lower center of gravity than most of the other standers. It basically comes down to how much money one is willing to spend.
#17
R
Rivets
R
Rivets
Don't know why you would call me a bully, I would be glad to help you out if you would just answer my questions. Just like when we are trying to diagnosis a running problem on a unit, we need to ask questions to give the most accurate answers. Believe it or not, I have helped a lot of members on this forum even though I like how they post. I have also backed out of a lot of threads because the OP will not help me give the most accurate answer. In this case about slope ratings, there are so many variables involved, questions are asked so that good responses can be given.
#18
R
rwraysmith
What question did you ask? I can't answer the one about you having anything better to do with your time. Sorry.
R
rwraysmith
Don't know why you would call me a bully, I would be glad to help you out if you would just answer my questions. Just like when we are trying to diagnosis a running problem on a unit, we need to ask questions to give the most accurate answers. Believe it or not, I have helped a lot of members on this forum even though I like how they post. I have also backed out of a lot of threads because the OP will not help me give the most accurate answer. In this case about slope ratings, there are so many variables involved, questions are asked so that good responses can be given.
What question did you ask? I can't answer the one about you having anything better to do with your time. Sorry.
#19
R
Rivets
R
Rivets
I asked:
Ray, why don't you tell us who you work for, exactly what information you are looking for and how you are going to use it. If we are going to do the work for you, the least you could do is to provide us a reason for helping.
I also asked why you won't help us by answering our questions.
Bert asked:
more important, why do you need to know
Ric asked:
Why are you asking? Is it a need to know the degree grade or slope that he is mowing before giving a recommendation.
Ray, why don't you tell us who you work for, exactly what information you are looking for and how you are going to use it. If we are going to do the work for you, the least you could do is to provide us a reason for helping.
I also asked why you won't help us by answering our questions.
Bert asked:
more important, why do you need to know
Ric asked:
Why are you asking? Is it a need to know the degree grade or slope that he is mowing before giving a recommendation.
#20
R
rwraysmith
I believe Ric was asking B**t why he was asking me why I wanted to know, but no matter.
I think your desire to know who I work for is justified, but you're not working for us. That's kind of a silly thing to say. And it's kind of quaint that you expect me to reveal that information. Do you really expect companies to reveal their top secret projects while they're in development? That kind of defeats the purpose, doesn't it? No one is forcing you to participate in my threads. If you don't want to participate in my research, or if you want to engage in your mindless paranoia, please go someplace else. I suspect your nasty comments are preventing other well-meaning people from participating, and that's a shame.
My company has the ability to truly revolutionize the machines you folks will be using in the next few years. I came into this forum to consult you folks, the experts, not to get abused.
R
rwraysmith
I asked:
Ray, why don't you tell us who you work for, exactly what information you are looking for and how you are going to use it. If we are going to do the work for you, the least you could do is to provide us a reason for helping.
I also asked why you won't help us by answering our questions.
Bert asked:
more important, why do you need to know
Ric asked:
Why are you asking? Is it a need to know the degree grade or slope that he is mowing before giving a recommendation.
I believe Ric was asking B**t why he was asking me why I wanted to know, but no matter.
I think your desire to know who I work for is justified, but you're not working for us. That's kind of a silly thing to say. And it's kind of quaint that you expect me to reveal that information. Do you really expect companies to reveal their top secret projects while they're in development? That kind of defeats the purpose, doesn't it? No one is forcing you to participate in my threads. If you don't want to participate in my research, or if you want to engage in your mindless paranoia, please go someplace else. I suspect your nasty comments are preventing other well-meaning people from participating, and that's a shame.
My company has the ability to truly revolutionize the machines you folks will be using in the next few years. I came into this forum to consult you folks, the experts, not to get abused.
#21
Ric
I don't really see where keeping secrets about who you are working for is doing you any good, the only thing it's doing is preventing you from what you seek (information) I think you are the one engaging in paranoia with your TOP SECRET PROJECTS in development. I mean it's not like were talking about Top Secret Government Documents after all,,,, it's a lawn mower that's not going to revolutionize any thing.
Ric
I believe Ric was asking B**t why he was asking me why I wanted to know, but no matter.
I think your desire to know who I work for is justified, but you're not working for us. That's kind of a silly thing to say. And it's kind of quaint that you expect me to reveal that information. Do you really expect companies to reveal their top secret projects while they're in development? That kind of defeats the purpose, doesn't it? No one is forcing you to participate in my threads. If you don't want to participate in my research, or if you want to engage in your mindless paranoia, please go someplace else. I suspect your nasty comments are preventing other well-meaning people from participating, and that's a shame.
My company has the ability to truly revolutionize the machines you folks will be using in the next few years. I came into this forum to consult you folks, the experts, not to get abused.
I don't really see where keeping secrets about who you are working for is doing you any good, the only thing it's doing is preventing you from what you seek (information) I think you are the one engaging in paranoia with your TOP SECRET PROJECTS in development. I mean it's not like were talking about Top Secret Government Documents after all,,,, it's a lawn mower that's not going to revolutionize any thing.
#22
R
Rivets
R
Rivets
Thank you for answering a question I did not ask, what kind of forum member are you? Answer, a member who does not want to help other forum members. You just want us to help you, but you are not willing to reciprocate. Forums are not a one-way street, but a two-way dialog where members work together to solve problems. As for me being paranoid, I would like you to know that there are at least 5 members who will say that my asking questions has helped them solve the problems they had when posting threads. Not going anywhere, as my goal is to help 5 more by the end of the year, so you may see me again in the future.
#23
I
ILENGINE
I
ILENGINE
I have stayed out of this thread to see what developed, but it has become clear why I stayed out of it. the OP has no desire to give us any information, wants us to do his job for him, when asked questions for information become argumentative.
Guys we are being trolled. and it is time to just end this discussion and send the OP on his way.
Guys we are being trolled. and it is time to just end this discussion and send the OP on his way.
#24
R
Rivets
R
Rivets
Il, once again you are the voice of reason and have made the best post on this thread. I'm going to follow your advice.
#25
R
rwraysmith
Wow, the paranoia must be contagious.
R
rwraysmith
Il, once again you are the voice of reason and have made the best post on this thread. I'm going to follow your advice.
Wow, the paranoia must be contagious.
#26
M
Mad Mackie
M
Mad Mackie
Grazing cattle, goats and sheep have both slop and slope limits and they don't have engines, batteries, v belts, clutches, fuel tanks, turning metal blades, wheels, control levers, brakes, seats, ROPS, seat belts and last but not least, unqualified operators.:laughing:
#27
primerbulb120
primerbulb120
I would help you if I could, but I haven't ever researched slope ratings since I don't have any slopes to mow.
I think you are already on the right track e-mailing the manufacturers, that way you will get accurate and up-to-date information. :thumbsup:
I think you are already on the right track e-mailing the manufacturers, that way you will get accurate and up-to-date information. :thumbsup: