Bushhogging a a hill

[Shawn T. W.]

I mow the top by the fence, following it, then just back down the few places between the trees ... Then nose up to the fence, and back over a mower width on the way back down, and pull back up to the fence, no turning around.

This is the same place as that first picture, the little tree to the left of the tractor is the same one that is just barely in front of it in the other picture ...

Like I said earlier ... My tractor tires are directional, and I can't drive completely through that area, as it's too sharp of a transition at the bottom that goes back up the other side, so at least I know I can drive back up.

 

[cmyoung2]

I run a Kubota L3600 and a BX2230 with a 50" flail mower. The L has R4 tires, rears loaded, with a loader. The BX has turf tires, rears loaded w/chains, loader. My hill is steeper than the angle shown. I have no where to turn around on top, sometimes no runout on the bottom. I always back up, mow down, 4x4 in a slow gear. I found if I drive up the hill and get in trouble, backing down is scary. Driving down, if there are issues I can still steer and can drop the bucket. On some of my less steep ground, close to the angle shown, I have to back down because of the fence.(I'm lazy, don't want to weedeat 10' of fenceline. The big thing, go slow, watch for holes, keep the tractor fairly straight, and use the seatbelt/rollbar. I usually work for maybe hr and take a break for my nerves. Almost 70 and have been around equipment most of my life. You may just have to figure out what is most comfortable for you, but that angle is doable.

 

[bcp]

Thank you for all the feedback. I have two questions:

1. If I choose to tackle it, should I go front first down the hill, and if so why?

2. bcp - please tell me more about engine oil starvation. I assume the oil can pool away from the oil pump? How common is this?

Google AI, for what it's worth:

While Kubota does not provide a single specific numerical slope degree in the M7060 operator manual exclusively for oil starvation, industry standards and manufacturer safety guidelines establish clear operational limits for the machine.

Critical Slope Limitations

• Engine Design Limit: Standard off-highway engines are generally engineered to maintain oil pressure at angles up to 20–30 degrees in any direction, provided the oil level is at the "full" mark.
• Manufacturer Safety Standard: Many manufacturers, including Kubota and competitors, recommend a maximum safe operating limit of 15–20 degrees for general utility work to prevent both oil circulation issues and rollover risks.
• Operational Risk: Beyond 25 degrees, engine performance may suffer as oil circulation becomes compromised, even if the machine remains stable.

Monitoring and Safety Signs

If you must operate on steep terrain, monitor these indicators to prevent engine damage:

• Oil Pressure Warning Light: If this light illuminates, the engine is likely at 7 PSI or lower, indicating a critical failure in lubrication. Stop the engine immediately.
• Oil Level: Always maintain the oil at the top mark on the dipstick when working on hills. Angles that are safe at full oil levels may cause starvation if the oil is near the "add" mark.

Bruce