PRECAUTIONS TO BE TAKEN WHEN WORKING 2.4.5 MOVING ON SLOPES Operations on slopes and on river or lake banks with damp ground may result in the tipping over or slipping of the machine. On hills, banks or slopes, keep the bucket very close to the ground (20-30 cm from the ground) and in case of emergency quickly lower it to the ground to help the machine stop. When traveling up a steep slope, extend the work equipment to the front to improve the balance, keep the work equipment ap- proximately 20 to 30cm (8 to 12 in) above the ground, and travel at low speed. When traveling downhill, lower the engine speed, keep the trav- el lever close to the neutral position, and travel at low speed.
When traveling down a slope with a grade of more than 15°, set the machine with the sprocket (1) at the downhill end and the work equipment in the posture shown in the diagram on the right, then lower the engine speed and travel downhill. Do not change direction and avoid travelling obliquely when working on slopes. It is advisable to go down or up to a flat place to perform these operations. Do not travel on wet grass or thick layers of leaves: if the ma- chine moves obliquely in these conditions, it may slip. Do not move on slopes with inclination exceeding 15°, since the machine may overturn.
When the fuel level indicator reaches the red reserve area dur- ing work on a slope, immediately provide for refuelling; due to the inclination of the machine, the engine may suck in air and suddenly stop, which represents a grave risk for the safety of the operator and of the persons before the machine. If the engine should stop all of a sudden, immediately lower the bucket to the ground. 36