Folding ROPS conversion - JD 4110

[SunnyValley]

Hi all,

I am searching the web for some examples of converting solid ROPS into folding. I can't find much out there and am honestly surprised there aren't any pre made options out there. I completely understand this is not ideal and potentially not safe, but I am also sure that something can be fabricated to match or even over-engineer the stock folding systems. JD wants almost $3K for factory folding ROPS. Has anyone done a modification or have ideas?

I have purchased a 4110 and will be using it for mowing in our orchard. Big old trees with low fruiting branches on nearly dead level land. Most of our stonefruit can not be reshaped at this stage in life, unfortunatly. I am not interested in replanting a couple acres of producing orchard either. Neighbord and friends have some pretty uneven and steep terrain, so I would like to keep them as an option when needed. I can think of two methods so far:

The first (and most simple) option is chopping the ROPS and welding together a tight fitting, solid tube, with pins to re-attach the upper and lower portions of the rops if needed.

The second (and most ideal) option is to basically copy the factory folding rops by welding a piece of tube over each side of the cut with a solid hinge and bolt connecting the two parts.

Has anyone done either of these methods or some up with something different? I would love to hear some feedback on what worked best for you. I am not a welder/fabricator, so I would hire a professional for the hinged option.


Thanks,
James

 

[ptsg]

To work on orchards, or around trees for that matter, it's just hard to beat the mid mounted ROPS, hence why orchard and vineyard tractors come with it as standard.

It folds much lower than the standard rear mounted ROPS which makes for an even lower profile.

Wondering if this could be an option for you. Keep your factory ROPS untouched and make a new mid mounted ROPS that folds over the hood.

Here is an example using my tractor. ROPS up:

And ROPS folded:

Anyway, just something to consider.