John Deere tractors, skid steers and other vehicles offer an impressive amount of utility. This is especially true if you get some tractor or skid steer trailer accessories. However, attaching and using accessories has the potential to be somewhat dangerous if you don’t know what you are doing. Fortunately, John Deere provides plenty of documentation and help to enable safe operation.
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1) Follow All Safety Instructions
Perhaps the most important tip for safe operation is to read and follow all the safety instruction for your specific vehicle and implement. A heavy duty 3-point receive hitch, for example, has the potential to become dangerous when you are moving about heavy implements. However, this can be easily avoided by just checking the documentation and practicing some common sense.
2) Hitch Implements With Plenty of Maneuvering Space
If you are hitching an implement, make sure that you give yourself plenty of room to maneuver. You will greatly increase the danger if there are nearby hazards for the implement or vehicle to strike. A sudden, unexpected movement of either can potentially injure someone trying to hitch the two together properly.
3) Never Move Vehicle While Anyone Is Holding Hitch
There are a few hitch options that you will find on John Deere products. Many of them are fairly easy to attach. However, some can require careful lining up. This can lead to people trying to hold the implement in place while backing up the tractor. This is a bad idea. Never move the vehicle while anyone is in between the vehicle and implement or hold either part of the hitch.
4) Wear Protective Clothing
As with all work, it is important to wear the proper protective clothing. This should include close-fitting clothes and work boots. Depending on the equipment you are attaching, you may need gloves. They are also necessary if hitching equipment that is very cold. While ear protection is important when operating machinery, make sure that everyone can hear easily while connecting the hitch.
5) Follow All Hitching Instructions
Finally, make sure to follow the exact instructions provided for the hitch and attachment. While the steps are roughly the same for many types of hitches, it is important to read the instructions provided for the specific equipment you are using.
This is important while trying to make the connection. It is also a key safety concern during operation. An improperly hitched implement has the potential to fall, get caught in the vehicle tire or otherwise become dangerous. Simply put, it is much better to be cautious and diligent whenever connecting any equipment.
Get New Attachments for Your John Deere Equipment
When you get the right John Deere vehicle and attachments, you will be ready to take on any task. For example, you may be looking out for John Deere pallet forks for sale. If you also have a trailer, you will be ready to move all types of materials and cargo around. No matter what equipment you buy, however, it is important to make sure you are using it safely. The above tips will help with that.
