The John Deere 850 is celebrated as a robust and reliable compact tractor, a valuable asset for various tasks from property maintenance to small-scale farming. Its reputation for durability and efficiency makes it a favorite among landowners. However, like all tractors, the John Deere 850 demands respect and careful operation, especially when working on uneven terrain. Operating any tractor on hills and slopes introduces significant risks, and understanding these dangers is crucial for ensuring your safety and the longevity of your equipment.
One of the primary concerns when operating a John Deere 850 on slopes is the risk of roll-over. Side slopes are particularly hazardous. It’s easy to underestimate how little of an incline it takes for a tractor to become unstable. Factors like the tractor’s center of gravity, the slope’s steepness, and ground conditions all play a role. Even seemingly minor bumps, potholes, or changes in soil density can disrupt the balance and lead to a sideways roll. This risk is amplified for novice operators who may be less familiar with the tractor’s handling and limitations in such conditions. Always approach side slopes with extreme caution and at a slow speed to maintain control and minimize the chance of tipping.
Climbing or descending hills with your John Deere 850 presents a different set of challenges, although equally serious. A common misconception is that rear-mounted implements, like mowers, will prevent a back-flip when ascending a hill. This is untrue because these implements are designed to pivot freely to allow for operation over uneven ground. Therefore, they offer no protection against a backward overturn. Furthermore, the configuration of your John Deere 850, specifically whether it is a two-wheel drive (2WD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) model, is a critical factor when operating on hills. If your 850 is equipped with 4WD, it is imperative to engage it when working on slopes.
The advantage of using 4WD on a John Deere 850 in hilly conditions is twofold. Firstly, it significantly enhances traction, providing better grip and control as you move uphill or downhill. Secondly, and perhaps more importantly, it dramatically improves your stopping power. Tractors, including the John Deere 850, typically only have brakes on the rear wheels. In a 2WD model, or if 4WD is not engaged, relying solely on rear brakes may not be sufficient to safely control the tractor’s descent on a slope. With 4WD engaged, the braking force is distributed to all four wheels (indirectly via the drivetrain), giving you much greater control and reducing the risk of a runaway situation. For this reason, it’s also crucial to select the appropriate low gear before you begin ascending or descending a hill. Avoid changing gears mid-slope, as this can lead to loss of control, especially when going uphill.
It’s important to remember that while the John Deere 850 is a capable machine, it is not designed for extreme terrain or hill-climbing competitions like ATVs. Tractors, by their nature, have a high center of gravity, large tires, and sometimes a narrow wheelbase. Attachments that extend beyond the tire footprint further compromise stability on slopes. Therefore, the best approach to operating your John Deere 850 on hills is to adopt a slow and cautious approach. “Slow and easy” is not just a saying; it’s a fundamental principle of safe tractor operation, particularly on uneven ground.
The John Deere 850 is indeed an excellent and versatile tractor. Investing time in learning its operational characteristics, understanding its limitations, and practicing safe operating procedures, especially concerning slope work, will ensure it remains a reliable and valuable tool for many years to come. Prioritize safety, always be aware of your surroundings, and respect the power of your machine to enjoy the full benefits of your John Deere 850.
