Max. incline/decline for JD1070??

[davefr]

I falled some large douglas fir trees down in a gulley. I'm just trying to estimate if it's too steep an incline/decline for my JD1070 4 wheel drive with loader/rear blade and filled tires. Maybe I'm being too paranoid but where do you draw the line in determining if a steep grade is OK to operate on. There's not much side slope and the field is just dry grass.

Anyone know what range of grades is considered "safe", "marginal" and "don't chance it"??

 

[/pine]

Others may have some actual grade figures but...
For myself...it's when I'm uncomfortable operating (pucker factor)...when I look for another solution...

Good luck, be safe...!

 

[davefr]

OK, here's what I measure:

Average grade = 20-25 degrees
Max. Grade = 30 degrees in a few short spans (10-20')
Tilt = about 5 degrees.

I can trade some slightly lower grade at the sacrifice of more tilt but my gut feel says don't do it.

The potential payoff is about 2 cords of doug fir if I can get it out of this ravine.

 

[Rustyiron]

The nature of your question leads me to believe that you might be new to tractors & machinery, if not my appologies. Your grade numbers above are quite mild and would not concern me at all, with that said, are you loading the bucket or dragging out logs? Either way, start with small loads & keep 'em low to the ground (center of gravity). Be carefull and pay close attention to your tractor, load, & immediate ground conditions.

 

[beenthere]

From the sounds of it, DON"T run on the sidehill. Just back down to the logs and go straight back up.
If your tractor runs out of power or traction, then you will know to quit that approach.

Better to let the wood rot than risk your hide, especially if you are feeling a need to ask about it.

Explain better how you plan to move the logs? Hooking to the 3 ph ?

Can you comfortably drive your tractor down to these logs, turn around, and drive back up the hill with no wood at all?
If so, that is a start. If not, drop the idea of going down there with your tractor.

Consider a long cable or chains to stay above and drag the logs up the hill. Be very aware that you need to pull straight away, and not at an angle to the pull.

Don't try to get them in the bucket unless you are very confident in what you can and cannot get away with.

Wish you good luck and safe travel.

 

[davefr]

Thanks guys!! I'm not really new to tractors but I am new to 20%+ grades. (...and grades always seem steeper in looks then the inclinometer shows).

I think I'll do a slow dry run just to get the feel since it's a "mild" grade.

But a close Plan B is to just let the wood rot away. I want very low risk of damage hassle and/or safety over a mere 2 cords of firewood.

 

[GreenYellow]

I'd do it.
Couple of things come to mind.
1) take it easy. If you spin a tire or find an obstacle, be careful. The LAST thing you want to do is turn sideways on the hill. If you're pulling the log from the back of the tractor, this will lighten the front and lessen front traction. Just make sure you keep it going straight up and down.
2) keep it in gear when you're going down. Don't let it freewheel and ride the brakes.
3) make sure the log can't roll sideways and create a side load on the tractor. Keep everything in a straight line when you're climbing.
4). Everyone has a their opinions -- but these situations are exactly why they install ROPS and seat belts.

I'd say there's very little risk of rolling backward unless you're snatching too big of a load and pop the clutch.
Go for it! And take pics!

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[Quebecguy]

Don't attempt it when the grass has any kind of moisture on it (dew or rain).

 

[Egon]

Pulling uphill get a load in your bucket and foot on whatever stops forward movement.

 

[Dutch445]

as beenthere mentioned,
if the layout justifies, a couple good lengths of cable or chain might be a worthwhile investment, just stay up high and pull them up the grade from the top...