Maine Farm Safety Program

University of Maine Cooperative Extension
Bulletin #2323

Big Tractor Safety
by Dawna L. Cyr, farm safety project assistant, and Steven B. Johnson, Ph.D., Extension crops specialist

Giant four-wheel-drive tractors are now used on many farms. Though most safety recommendations apply to both large and small tractors, there are special safety concerns when operating super-sized tractors. The tractor’s dimensions may cause difficulties in tight places, at corners and gates, and on narrow roadways. Overhead clearances, especially around power lines, may cause a problem.

Steering Problems

The unique steering systems of large 4-wheel-drive tractors present new handling problems, especially for beginning drivers. All-wheel steering can shift a towed device into an unexpected path. Articulated steering changes the rig’s center of gravity so that an overturn can occur under unexpected conditions. With articulate steering, high-speed road travel requires more operating skill than conventional tractor steering does.

If an operator steers a unit with articulated steering while it is standing still, a bystander can be trapped in the hinge region. All new tractors carry warnings, but it is the operator’s responsibility to be sure everyone is clear before starting or maneuvering the machine.

Safety Reminders

• Watch your step. Use the hand holds when climbing up and down the cab access steps or ladder.
• Clear them of mud and ice. Clean your shoes or boots before mounting the tractor.
• Refuel with care. If takes longer to fill the big tanks. You may have to climb up and find a secure position from which to refuel. Do not smoke while refueling.
• Be sure everyone is out of the way before moving. A child, worker or animal next to or under a big rig may be hidden from view.
• Drive slowly when approaching tight turns, narrow gates, buildings and overhead obstructions that are not problems for smaller tractors.
• Remember heavily ballasted, big tractors cannot stop quickly. When the tractor tows a heavy wagon without brakes, the added load might increase the stopping distance to an unsafe degree, especially on downgrades. Slow down early. Equip large wagons with brakes. Keep tractor brakes properly adjusted and equalized.
• Steer articulated four-wheel drive tractors with care at transport speed to assure straight-line tracking. Slow down if the tractor’s rear section begins to fishtail. Avoid steep side slopes. Do not pull so far to the right on roads that right-side wheels are in the ditch. The rear section of the tractor could then slide into a jack-knife position, resulting in loss of control or an overturn.
• Be sure that small bridges, floors and flatbeds will support the big tractor’s weight and width before driving onto these surfaces.

Maine Farm Safety Fact Sheet Series -  Index of Titles

This Maine Farm Safety fact sheet is part of an educational fact sheet series produced by University of Maine Cooperative Extension. For more information on farm safety, contact your county Extension office.

Published and distributed in furtherance of Acts of Congress of May 8 and June 30, 1914, by the University of Maine Cooperative Extension, the Land Grant University of the state of Maine and the U.S. Department of Agriculture cooperating. Cooperative Extension and other agencies of the U.S.D.A. provide equal opportunities in programs and employment.

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