adding hinge point to ROPS

[dragoneggs]

For those that actually read the original post and gave an answer; thanks. I won't be shortening ROPS as I sit very tall.

For those that might find this thread in a search and make it this far; the hinge point would seam to be chosen by the OEMs to keep the tractor from flipping over backwards when pinned in the low position.

To the rest of you; **** right off.

Okay hope you aren’t disgruntled by the posts. As far as capping the cuts, not sure that is necessary if you have a drain path at the bottom. With respect to location/height of joint, the higher up, the lower bending stresses should you roll it and place a force on the top of the ROPS. Hope that helps a bit. But why not buy a tractor with folding ROPS?

 

[drizler]

Yep, I'm surprised how much of that exists here on TBN. Of course some people may trade tractors as often as they do autos?

When you think about it, is it worth inconveniencing yourself for years just because you may or may not loose a few trade-in dollars way in the future? I for one, always purchase what I want, if I can afford it, and modify it to what suits me best at the time, not what I think someone else may want if/when I sell it in the future.

I couldn稚 have said it better myself
Exactly. To live constantly worrying about what something like that might mean to someone else

 

[BKBoiss]

When I first bought my tractor the ROPS was so tall it was always hitting branches and wouldn't fit under the storage roof at the house. After folding up and down for awhile i realized it was more down than up. Then the 3ph top link hit it a time or two. I figured if I'm going to have something it may as well be used or just take it off. I cut it off right above the hinge, cut out 8", sleeved it and welded it back together. I think I may have only had to fold it a few times in the years since and I have never once worried about it. To the OP I wouldn't hesitate to cut and put in a hinge if your decent with a welder or know someone that is. Try to keep the hinge as high as possible so even folded it still provides some protection, and so when you fold it the top portion doesn't interfere with any rear implements. As far as capping I don't think it matters either way as long as the water can drain out the bottom. I 100% believe in safety but common sense and practicality need to be used as well. Moderation in EVERYTHING is the key.