So this weekend, I sent an email to Kubota asking whether it is advisable to drill through the ROPS to attach lights. I actually got a call from them at work today. The gentleman that called informed me that I should not drill through the ROPS as it would compromise the roll-over protection. I asked him, if that's the case, why one of their dealer's did. He fumbled around and eventually said they are independently operated. He asked whether they were installing Kubota "authorized" lights. I asked what difference that made and he said it might be the recommended install procedure for non-Kubota lights. I explained that didn't make sense since he had told me Kubota did not recommend drilling through the ROPS and I don't see why it would be okay if a non-Kubota authorized light kit maker to say go ahead and drill. He agreed and I asked how Kubota recommended installing their light kit. He looked it up (I want to say L8329) and determined they use U-bolts.
I told him I would talk to the dealer but that I would expect Kubota's support as one of their dealer's had violated Kubota's specific recommendation not to drill through the ROPS. He hemmed and hawed a bit and I asked him what he would expect; he answered that they should replace the ROPS.
I will be going into tomorrow on my way to work. Should be a fun way to start the day.
As
KennyV said:
"Get kubota involved...
Have the "dealer" replace the Rops...
Have them Put everything Back as it was when you Last had it.
and then You need to put this stuff on your tractor, (you will care enough to do the job right)."
I used to work for two domestic car dealers, and a national headquarters, for a high end auto importer.
Dealers would routinely do things the Owners Manual and warranty EXPRESSLY FORBID. Adding "dust shields" to keep the brake dust off of the wheels being just one such example. The shields also keep cooling air off of the rotors. The excess heat can warp the rotors, and in an extreme case, cause "brake fade" (which can lead to no brakes). These dealers made money on the shields and labor, and would do it until their regional manager stepped in.
So, IF you get no where with the dealer (which would not surprise me), I would ask them for the name and number of their regional manager and, when they refuse, I would re-contact Kubota, and ask them to "open a case" (or whatever their terminology is). Ask them for the specific "case number," so you can give it to anyone who answers, should you call back. Also, if getting no where, consider saying "if you can't help me, either, then I'd like to speak directly to the regional manager." (In actuality, the Regional Manager works for them [Kubota] but the mere fact that you're asking to speak with him/her, directly, will rattle their cage and show them you know how the game is played).
And in the end, I'm confident the fur will fly, and you will get a new ROPS. The dealer's labor charge, for the lights, is outrageous ($300.?!) IMO. If they won't refund it, perhaps they can issue a credit for hydraulic oil, or something? (Then Parts can fight it out with Service).
Oh, and please post some pics. From your description, it sounds like there's sharp, 90-degree corners sticking out, ready to gouge (or worse) the unwary, as you work around the tractor. And if so, are they potentially even more dangerous in a rollover? IF the brackets are obviously dangerous, such pics can only help your case, IMO, when Kubota sees them.
Did you tell Kubota, Inc., about how they took the (sl)eazy way out, on your quick-connects? That would only be more ammo, as you know.
Best scenario is Kubota tells the dealer to write the hose charges off, obviously, before you're even asked to pay.
Onward and upward. It sucks, but I can't see how you can lose, with the Owner's Manual prohibiting drilling the ROPS.
Oh--and Kudos on calling out the dude at Kubota who tried to suggest the dealer may have drilled the ROPS in accordance with a (possible) non-Kubota light supplier's instructions! That was OUTRAGEOUS and I'm glad you said what you said. You must have had a real dullard for a rep. How stupid could he think we are?
So I would ask for a different rep. at Kubota next time. One named "Supervisor." The first guy needs some training, and a Supervisor can make things happen--the rep almost certainly cannot.
Thank you for posting, however. You've given me more ammo I can show SWMBO for why I DETEST letting others work on things for me. I've had to pay for a lot more labor, lately, and I HATE it. I may be slow, and even slower when I'm new to something, but I'm not stupid. I go to the appropriate forum and get the help I need. This dealer sounds like a real piece of work.
Good luck.
P.S.: Can anyone tell me where the button, on the "Advance" posting window, is, (in the "Toolbar") that allows you to use the "quote" function? Seems like there's been an upgrade, and I missed a meeting, or something. Thanks.
