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OPERATION
SB5/6 03/09 Operation Section 3-4
© 2009 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
2.TRACTOR REQUIREMENTS
The tractor used to operate the mower must have the power capacity to lift, pull, and operate the Power Take
Off (PTO) at the mower’s rated speed while traveling at a ground speed between 2 and 5 MPH. Operating the
mower with a tractor that does not meet the following requirements may cause tractor or mower damage and
be a potential danger to the operator and passersby.
Tractor Requirements and Capabilities
• ASAE approved Roll-Over Protective Structure (ROPS) or ROPS cab and seat belt.
• Tractor Safety Devices ....................Slow Moving Vehicle (SMV) emblem, lighting,
• Tractor Horsepower:
-Minimum ..................25 HP
• Front End Weights............................As needed to maintain 20% weight on front axle
• Power Take Off.................................540 RPM 6-spline or 1000 RPM 21-spline shaft
2.3 Tractor Horsepower
The power required to operate a mower is determined by the tractor PTO horsepower. For most mowing
conditions, the Switch Blade mower requires a tractor with at least 25 HP for a 5 and 6 unit. Operating the
mower with a tractor that does not have adequate power may damage the tractor engine. Exceeding 25 HP
may cause mower damage by overpowering the unit in heavy cutting conditions.
2.1 ROPS and Seat Belt
The tractor must be equipped with a Roll-Over-Protective-Structure (ROPS) (tractor cab or roll-bar) and seat
belt to protect the operator from falling off the tractor, especially during a roll over where the driver could be
crushed and killed. Only operate the tractor with the ROPS in the raised position and seat belt fastened.
Tractor model not equipped with a ROPS and seat belt should have these life saving features installed by an
authorized dealer. OPS-U- 0003
Operate this Equipment only with a Tractor equipped with an approved roll-
over-protective system (ROPS). Always wear seat belts. Serious injury or
even death could result from falling off the tractor--particularly during a turnover
when the operator could be pinned under the ROPS.
(SG-7)
2.2 Tractor Safety Devices
If transporting or operating the tractor and implement near a public roadway, the tractor must be equipped with
proper warning lighting and a Slow Moving Vehicle (SMV) emblem which are clearly visible from the rear of
the unit. Lights and a SMV emblem must be equipped directly on implements if the visibility of the tractor
warning signals are obscured.
Maintain all manufacturer equipped safety shields and guards. Always replace shields and guards that were
removed for access to connect, service, or repair the tractor or implement. Never operate the tractor PTO
with the PTO master shield missing or in the raised position. OPS-U- 0004