Incline Education Requested

Mcduck · May 7, 2010

Hi guys, I have just ordered a 23 hp craftsman lawn tractor. Appears to be just what I need for my oversized backyard. Now I am getting second thoughts about completing the deal. The issue is I have a slope in my backyardwhich appears to be 15 to 20 degrees. In order to cut the slope I need to traverse it which the Sears manual says is a no no. I weigh 200 lbs and figure if I keep my speed down and offset my weight it should be no problem. How tippy are these things? Am I asking for trouble. Your experience would be appreciated!!

Thanks

McDuck

irvingj · May 8, 2010

Can't say anything about the Craftsman mower specifically, but any slope mowing "sideways" is likely asking for trouble and generally to be avoided. Guess you won't know til you try it, but I'd be darned careful! Perhaps it would be worthwhile to use a small push mower for the slope?

Thomas · May 8, 2010

"offset my weight it should be no problem"
That might work if there isn't some sort safety switch in seat.

Go slow on each pass until your gut feeling says enough.

Mcduck · May 8, 2010

Thanks for info and opinions.

rekees4300 · May 8, 2010

Mcduck said:
Hi guys, I have just ordered a 23 hp craftsman lawn tractor. Appears to be just what I need for my oversized backyard. Now I am getting second thoughts about completing the deal. The issue is I have a slope in my backyardwhich appears to be 15 to 20 degrees. In order to cut the slope I need to traverse it which the Sears manual says is a no no. I weigh 200 lbs and figure if I keep my speed down and offset my weight it should be no problem. How tippy are these things? Am I asking for trouble. Your experience would be appreciated!!

Thanks

McDuck

I have an 18HP Craftsman and weigh 200 lbs. I also have a 15 degree slope and a 20 degree slope. I've been mowing (slowly) the 15 degree slope for 10 years without any problems. However, I wont traverse the 20 degree slope, do that one with walk behind. Suggest you determine the actual slope degrees then follow the mower's manual.