ROPS Tubing: Drilling Holes

npalen · Jan 8, 2013

I've noticed in quite a number of discussions on the TBN forum that it is a unanimous no-no to drill holes in ROPS tubing but rather accessories such as lights should be attached with other means such as u-bolts. I understand the logic of safety and liability but would just like a little more information. Is the ROPS tubing high carbon material where a drilled hole might weaken the structure or lead to stress cracks?

Combustix · Jan 8, 2013

I drilled holes for my lights have not seen any adverse effects to the rops. Bit then again I havnt rolled my tractor

Leejohn · Jan 8, 2013

No the ROPS tubing aren't high carbon material.

tkappeler · Jan 8, 2013

My T293 has some holes already drilled which appear to be for accessories. I enlarged one on each side from 3/8" to tap for a 1/2" bolt. It worked for me just fine and plenty of meat left to be supportive. As Combustix said, I have not rolled mine either.

crazyal · Jan 8, 2013

The rational behind not drilling holes is if you do roll your tractor and the ROPS fails the mfg can say that it's your fault because you weakened the structure.

mjncad · Jan 9, 2013

I agree that in general it's not a good idea to drill holes in the ROPS, and I avoid drilling into the ROPS if at all possible; but I've drilled a couple of holes for 1/4-20 bolts, and the amount of material removed is next to nothing. If you're going to drill into your ROPS, use common sense and keep the holes to a minimum in number and size.

The lawyers are the prime reason for the "no drilling the ROPS" warnings from the manufacturers.

kennyd · Jan 9, 2013

I confess, I am on ROPS driller also.

TCJatko · Jan 9, 2013

crazyal said:
The rational behind not drilling holes is if you do roll your tractor and the ROPS fails the mfg can say that it's your fault because you weakened the structure.

Exactly!

kevin37b · Jan 9, 2013

There could be also be issues if you go to trade tractors . I doubt if anyone would even notice , but you never know . I put a 590 Case backhoe on it's side at work . Got it back on it's wheels and nothing broke . Had the dealer check it out , just to be sure . Doors ,windows , fenders , roof , nothing damaged . However , they said if and when machine got traded the ROPS would be considered compromised . They had to cover them selves . On a side note , it's amazing how much dirt is under that rubber floor mat .