Do ROPS' work when UP? Do they work when folded?

[rjkobbeman]

I just noticed that Kubota's Grand L brochure says "For your safety, KUBOTA strongly recommends the use of a Rollover Protective Structure (ROPS) and seat belt in almost all applications."

Just about as vague as my manual's "Fold the ROPS down only when absolutely necessary and fold it up and lock it again as soon as possible."

Vague as in: Wonder what applications Kubota thinks it's OK to not use the ROPS and/ or seatbelt.

I think I remember seeing in my owner's manual they understand that some situations like vinyard work do not work out with the ROPS. They aren't saying it is safer to use it down in those situations... just that they realize the ROPS will not be used in some situations.

For the late comers here, keep in mind NOBODY every said it was recommended to use the ROPS down. Some of us were just disputing the statement that the ROPS in the down position provides absolutely no protection at all.

 

[LostInTheWoods]

I just noticed that Kubota's Grand L brochure says "For your safety, KUBOTA strongly recommends the use of a Rollover Protective Structure (ROPS) and seat belt in almost all applications."

Just about as vague as my manual's "Fold the ROPS down only when absolutely necessary and fold it up and lock it again as soon as possible."

Vague as in: Wonder what applications Kubota thinks it's OK to not use the ROPS and/ or seatbelt.

That's what a $50,000 law degree does. It gives you the power to cover everything while saying nothing at all.

You can't sue us because our legal department covered every eventuality without actually promising you anything.

 

[beppington]

That's what a $50,000 law degree does. It gives you the power to cover everything while saying nothing at all.

You can't sue us because our legal department covered every eventuality without actually promising you anything.

Yeah, I almost mentioned how much attornies charged to perfect those two lines.

 

[aczlan]

Vague as in: Wonder what applications Kubota thinks it's OK to not use the ROPS and/ or seatbelt.

Probably those in which you are at a greater risk of being killed or injured by being kept on the machine (working on ice?) than being able to get off quickly.

Aaron Z

 

[RoyJackson]

Just about as vague as my manual's "Fold the ROPS down only when absolutely necessary and fold it up and lock it again as soon as possible."

Vague as in: Wonder what applications Kubota thinks it's OK to not use the ROPS and/ or seatbelt.

I see no vagueness at all...it clearly states to leave the ROPS up...UP, unless absolutely necessary to fold it down...then put it back up when using the machine.

How is that vague or ambiguous?

I raise my ROPS as soon as the 4400 is out of the garage. It's lowered just before backing the tractor in to the garage.

 

[nebraskasparks]

I see no vagueness at all...it clearly states to leave the ROPS up...UP, unless absolutely necessary to fold it down...then put it back up when using the machine.

How is that vague or ambiguous?

I raise my ROPS as soon as the 4400 is out of the garage. It's lowered just before backing the tractor in to the garage.

It's been interesting watching this thread. I agree with Roy...if you're trying to read into the legaleze of the manual you're already a half a bubble off center. Listen to the old men and try to remember what they are telling you...we don't like seeing stories and pictures of people doing dumb things with very heavy pieces of equipment.

It reminds me of days back in the military when the discussion came about on how "low" someone could fly. We had a few of those "rops down" fellas that tied the ultimate low altitude world record, time and time again over the years and never got to come home for dinner. All for the sake of proving what???????:confused2: