An operator who takes a vehicle off-road should always exercise the utmost care
in selecting the safest path and keeping close watch on the terrain ahead of him.
On no account should the vehicle be operated by anyone who is not completely
familiar with the driving instructions applicable to the vehicle, nor should it be
operated on steep or treacherous terrain.
General Operating and Safety Precautions
Care, caution, experience and driving skill are the best precautions against the
hazards of vehicle operation.
Whenever there is the slightest doubt that the vehicle can safely negotiate an
obstacle or a particular piece of terrain, always choose an alternate route.
In off-road operation, power and traction, not speed, are important. Never drive
faster than visibility and your own ability to select a safe route permit.
Constantly watch the terrain ahead for sudden changes in slopes or obstacles,
such as rocks or stumps, that may cause loss of stability, resulting in tipover or
rollover.
Never operate the vehicle if the controls do not function normally.
When operating in reverse, check that the path behind the vehicle is free of peo-
ple or obstacles. Proceed slowly and avoid sharp turns.
When stopped or parked, always apply the parking brake. This is especially im-
portant when parking on a slope. On very steep inclines or if the vehicle is car-
rying cargo, the wheels should be blocked using rocks or bricks. Remember to
turn the fuel valve to the closed position.
Uphill Driving
Due to configuration, this vehicle has excellent climbing ability, so much so that
tipover is possible before traction is lost. For example, its common to encounter
terrain situations where the top of the hill has eroded to a point that the hill peak
rises very sharply. The vehicle can readily negotiate such a condition, however,
in doing so, when the front of the vehicle is driven to a point that the vehicle's
balance changes rearward tipover can occur.
The same situation may apply if an embedded object causes the front of the
vehicle to climb more than desired. If such a situation occurs take an alternate
route. Be aware of side hilling dangers when doing so.
It is also wise to know the terrain condition on the other side of the hill or bank. All
too often there exists a sharp drop-off that is impossible to negotiate or descend.
Downhill Driving
This vehicle can climb slopes that are steeper than it can safely descend. There-
fore, it is essential to assure that a safe route exists to descend a slope before
you climb it.
Decelerating while negotiating a slippery downhill slope could “toboggan” the
vehicle. Maintain steady speed and/or accelerate slightly to regain control.
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SAFETY INFORMATION
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Summary of Contents for DS 250
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