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Tips for Using a Lawn Mower on a Slope

Jan. 25 2023 Safety By Central Arkansas Mahindra

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Learning how to safely operate your lawn mower is important, especially if you’ll be mowing on a slope. There are some helpful steps you can follow to ensure you navigate slopes safely and properly. We’ve created this guide to get you started, so keep reading for more information. Be sure to stop by and check out our selection of lawn mowers for sale in Little Rock, AR.

Use the Right Mower

If you’ve ever attempted to mow on a slope, you know it can be challenging. You’ll be most successful if you use a zero-turn mower or lawn tractor with traction-supporting features. For example, a lawn mower with a differential locking option on the wheels is ideal. Look for a model with a low profile that will be less likely to tip over.

Understand Your Model

Different models operate differently, so understanding how yours works is instrumental when mowing on a slope. This allows you to maximize your machine’s capacities so you can finish your work more quickly and efficiently.

Operation Tips

The owner’s manual is a great place to start. You’ll receive important information about your lawn mower, including the manufacturer’s recommendations for safe operation. Always follow the best practices outlined in the manual for safe, efficient use of your equipment.

Mower Limitations

First, confirm your mower is equipped to handle slopes. As a general rule of thumb, you should avoid using your machine on any slopes that are steeper than one foot of incline for every three feet of horizontal width.

Most zero-turn models and lawn tractors can conquer hills that are one foot of incline for every four feet of horizontal width. With that being said, it’s important to understand your model’s limits so you do not exceed them.

Reduce Risks

There are some strategies you can try to reduce risks associated with mowing on a slope. Follow these methods for a safe mowing experience.

Remove Obstacles

Before starting your equipment, walk over the sloped area. Remove obstacles in your path such as rocks, sticks, and fallen branches. You’ll feel safer knowing there are no objects in the path of your lawn mower while you’re working.

Increase Visibility

Plan to cut the grass during daylight hours when it’s bright and visible. Using your equipment after dusk can be dangerous as low visibility makes it more difficult to spot obstacles.

Avoid Overly Wet or Dry Grass

Mowing on a slope when the grass is overly wet or dry can affect your machine’s ability to maintain tractions. As a result, you increase the risk of slipping or rolling over. Wait for optimal mowing conditions to cut the grass.

Best Practices When Mowing On a Slope

Here are some final best practices for safely using your lawn mower on a slope:

  • Go at a slower speed so you can maintain control of your machine and be prepared to spot obstacles and react appropriately.
  • Mow up and down diagonally to reduce the chance of slipping or rolling.
  • Avoid starting, stopping, and turning on a slope, and minimize maneuvers as much as you can.

We hope these tips are useful the next time you use your lawn mower on a slope! If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us. The team at Central Arkansas Mahindra will be happy to assist you. We proudly serve all those in Sherwood, Conway, and Hot Springs.