Attaching tool box to ROPS using pre-existing hinge holes?

[ning]

The ROPS on my tractor (Branson 3520h) has a very convenient hole on each side, probably to hold the ROPS in place when it's folded down.

I never fold my ROPS, and it looks like a really convenient spot to attach a shelf behind the seat, to which I'd attach a toolbox or two.

Any good reason not to use that as an attachment point?

 

[Gordon Gould]

No reason what so ever - at least to me. A great place for a tool box.







gg

 

[crazyal]

I attached lights to the top of my ROPS by clamping to it so I wouldn't have to drill. It would be just as simple to do the same for a tool box. If you have a hole that works, use it.

 

[powerscol]

I used heavy duty aluminum angle material and split the ends to get tabs to bolt to the ROPS. Steel angle would also probably work. I then bolted a standard metal tool box. Just check the top opening clearance on the seat befor bolting it in. To bolt to the ROPS I drill and tapped the holes for the 3/8 bolts.

 

[Fallon]

The ROPS on my tractor (Branson 3520h) has a very convenient hole on each side, probably to hold the ROPS in place when it's folded down.

I never fold my ROPS, and it looks like a really convenient spot to attach a shelf behind the seat, to which I'd attach a toolbox or two.

Any good reason not to use that as an attachment point?

Because it would block visibility. Not sure that really qualifies as a GOOD reason though.

Using OEM mounting points on safety systems is always a good idea compared to drilling your own.

 

[Gordon Gould]

Because it would block visibility. Not sure that really qualifies as a GOOD reason though.

Using OEM mounting points on safety systems is always a good idea compared to drilling your own.

That is a very good reason and excellent point!! Visibility is important and you don't want to find out after the fact that you can't see where you need to while running an implement. Mount your box so you can see or make it easily removable. I can remove mine w/o tools when I need to.

gg

 

[flusher]

The ROPS on my tractor (Branson 3520h) has a very convenient hole on each side, probably to hold the ROPS in place when it's folded down.

I never fold my ROPS, and it looks like a really convenient spot to attach a shelf behind the seat, to which I'd attach a toolbox or two.

Any good reason not to use that as an attachment point?

I use hose clamps to attach an expanded metal safety screen to the ROPS on my 2008 Mahindra 5525. Makes a handy place for a magnetic cup holder also. Don't see why you couldn't use existing holes in your ROPS for attachment.



Good luck

 

[TnAndy]

I welded a 2x2 hunk of angle between my ROPS just below the folding point and mounted a small toolbox to it. High enough to give me clearance on the fuel cap.

Not a good photo here, since it was the back of the seat being pictured, but you can see one end of the angle with the red tool box mounted to it.

 

[Fracture]

View attachment 526604View attachment 526605

I used heavy duty aluminum angle material and split the ends to get tabs to bolt to the ROPS. Steel angle would also probably work. I then bolted a standard metal tool box. Just check the top opening clearance on the seat befor bolting it in. To bolt to the ROPS I drill and tapped the holes for the 3/8 bolts.

I thought drilling into ROPS is a BIG no no. Is it ok now?

 

[Gordon Gould]

I think it is, from a insurance claim stand point anyway but structurely speaking why would a small hole or two make any difference ?? I can tell you this: I bought a used tractor last spring and received all the maintenance paper work with it. The original owner had the Kubota dealer install 3 work lights. The dealer drilled the ROPS and used self tapping 5/16" bolts. Two in each light. What does that tell you ???

gg