Roll Bar, or just headache rack?

[BB_TX]

David - I would suggest adding some gussets at the top of the frame. The square corners will not have much side roll over strength without some additional stiffeners welded into the corners.

 

[skid mark]

I'd say that what you're doing should offer pretty good protection. One thing about tractors vs something like a dune buggy is that you're not likely to wipe it out at high speed and endo it several times. Much more likely is a tip over or maybe a rollover.

The 2x2 tubing you mention is pretty strong - heck, that's almost the size tubing that is used to make receiver hitches for cars/trucks. The key is to try to triangulate _everything_. A triangle is an inherently strong structure. Not so for squares, rectangles, etc.

Best,

 

[Volp]

Hey fellows!
This is my first reply on TBN but I have learned a lot from browsing this forum!
In Sweden a rollerbar is not considered enought protection. You have to have a cage unless the tractor is only for personal use or in an orchard ( to go under the apple trees).
Seat belt is however not mandatory! I am interested in how your seatbelts are constructed and attached.

<font color=red>Anders</font color=red>

 

[BB_TX]

The seat belt on my JD 950 attaches to the lower area of my roll bar. When snugged down, it holds me to the seat quite firmly. If I should happen to roll over, it would hold me inside the roll over frame.

 

[wroughtn_harv]

I'm not sure how the tractor companys attach their seat belts.

But I do believe the principles followed in racecar construction offer the best protection.

That is the seat and belts are to the rollcage assembly and not to the chassis independent of the roll cage assembly.

It would be catastrophic if the rollcage assembly shifted on the chassis and your seat and belt assembly didn't allow you to shift with it.

 

[Anonymous Poster]

Good point , Thanks guys, I was getting materials together to start the belt as soon as I finish the top.
Should have the top on tomorrow if I can lift it {all I could find was 3/16 plate}.....

 

[Volp]

Thanks for the input on seatbelts.
I would like to se any pictures of them!

 

[xantherx]

Re: Folding Roll Bar

I made my rollbar a folding type so I can throw a tarp over the tractor. Pivoting hinges with strong 3/4" hitch pins make it solid when "up" but allows bar to be quickly be folded down.

 

[xantherx]

Re: Folding Roll Bar

Bar folds forward and lays flat just forward of steering wheel.

 

[chim]

Re: Folding Roll Bar

Please remain seated until the tractor has come to a complete stop. Keep clear of the bar. Exit to the left.

Those are some aggresive tires! Bet there's no mud that gives you much of a problem...............chim