Folding-ROPS hardware

[FHTM_JK]

I've been through the archives and searched the threads, but I can't find the answer to this: Is it possible to purchase the hinge hardware and convert a non-folding ROPS. I really would like to be able to bring my TC29D inside both to work on it and just to keep it out of the weather. I'm aware of the possible liability issues...

JK

 

[BIG DOOLEY]

I WANTED TO BRING MY 2320 INSIDE MY GARAGE.
I DIDN'T WANT TO FOLD THE ROPS EVERYTIME.
MY PHOTOS MIGHT HELP YOU BUILD YOUR OWN IF YOU HAVE ACCESS TO A WELDER OR SOMEONE WHO CAN WELD FOR YOU.
I SHOTENED MINE FROM 91" DOWN TO 77" ADDED A HOME MADE CONOPY WITH 4 PINS TO RELEASE IT AND UNPLUG THE WIRING.
IT CAN STILL FOLD AND THE ORGINAL CAN STILL GO BACK ON.
I'LL TRY TO ATTACH PICS
TOM

 

[V1Rotate]

My TC29D has a folding ROPS. I'm not sure why yours doesn't, maybe it was an option. Check with your dealer, he might be able to get you a folding ROPS for your tractor.

 

[Inspector507]

A folding ROPS from the dealer would be about $900 plus shipping

 

[thatguy]

A few yrs ago i think this came up and there was no source for the hinges. No one wanted take liability if something failed.

The poster ended up making his own hinges instead

Brian

 

[azbinder]

Keep in mind that a ROPS is a SAFTEY item and is tested and certified as it comes on the tractor. If there are ANY modifications (even a 1/64" hole drilled in it), the certification has been VOIDED. Would you want to be responsible if someone is injured due to a rollover and ROPS failure? Do you have enough money to pay for damages, because your insurance will not cover your negligance.

 

[koamfps]

Probably not the smartest move but I cut mine to size and rewelded it (so I could get it into the building I was storing it in)

 

[JoeBuyer]

I was thinking about something similar, but I wasn't going to make mine foldable, just a removable top. I was going to make a "collar" of about 10" of one size larger square tube, cut the ROPS, and weld the collar on the bottom half way down. Then the top inverted U would just drop into place, with two pins holding the top side in place. Seems it would be strong enough. I am the only one that drives my older tractors so I am not worried about liability.

 

[FHTM_JK]

I appreciate all the feedback, ideas and caveats. I've decided to do as JoeBuyer has done (or plans to do), except that I will weld the collar to the top removable piece in order to keep rain from running down into the roll-bar when out in the weather. No one but me drives the tractor (I don't loan it out), and, should I ever sell it, the purchaser will sign a document of understanding stating something to the effect that the ROPS has been modified and the seller makes no claims or warranties concerning the reliability of the ROPS. Beyond that, life's too short to run scared.

I was thinking about something similar, but I wasn't going to make mine foldable, just a removable top. I was going to make a "collar" of about 10" of one size larger square tube, cut the ROPS, and weld the collar on the bottom half way down. Then the top inverted U would just drop into place, with two pins holding the top side in place. Seems it would be strong enough. I am the only one that drives my older tractors so I am not worried about liability.

 

[yelbike]

I took my jd 2305 to a local welder who made the non folding rops into a folding rops. He did it for cash so he is not liable. I think i paid $200 or less. It was quick and easy. I have a smaller mig welder but i wouldnt trust my life on my welding skills.