Some PT180 project pics.

[BillCroasmun]

JJ,
Because I am mainly on flat areas I'll probably go ahead and keep using it to stay in the habit until I get/build a ROPS. Does your model have one? I've seen the recent engine pics of yours and the close up of the forks but haven't seen a full body shot. If you have one I wouldn't mind seeing what the earlier model looks like. Also maybe a good look at the front arms. The 180 arms are quite different from the 422 and 425 models I've noticed.

I think when I was at Tazewell I was so overwhelmed by the showroom I don't think I really noticed all the differences until later. /forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif Plus the budget really only allowed for one choice so it didn't matter how they compared it was just a matter of was I impressed enough with the 180 to get one. I guess ya' all know that answer! /forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif

 

[J_J]

Hi Bill, Here is a picture of my PT-1445,

 

[J_J]

Here is another pic.

 

[J_J]

Front liftarms.

 

[pajoube]

Bill,
Most of my problems come from going to fast on broken ground. Hills have not been a problem but the bouncing on rough ground is enough to throw you from the seat even on level surface. The belt keeps you in place and in control.
PJ

 

[ClintBlake]

Slowing down a bit has a similar effect of keeping me in the seat. I don't have ROPS so I don't wear the seat belt.

 

[MossRoad]

<font color="blue"> good common sense should be applied to every situation. </font>

Words to live by! /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

 

[MossRoad]

The general rule is if you have a ROPS, always wear your seat belt. If you have no ROPS, don't wear a seat belt. ROPS is for Roll Over Protection System. They work. If you have a ROPS, you should train yourself to reach for the steering wheel with both hands and hold on if a roll should occur. That way, your limbs will stay under the protection of the ROPS and your butt will stay in the seat. If you have no ROPS and are belted in, you are the highest point on top of the tractor and will be the lowest point once it turns over. YIKES!

As J.J. mentioned, there are special circumstances where you might want to change your operating habits, but take his words to heart...

"good common sense should be applied to every situation."

 

[KentT]

</font><font color="blue" class="small">( The general rule is if you have a ROPS, always wear your seat belt. If you have no ROPS, don't wear a seat belt. )</font>

I agree. IMO, Power Trac shouldn't even install a seat belt unless they install a ROPS -- which isn't an option on the PT180, as I understand it...

IMO, Power Trac is more liable for installing the seat belt, encouraging you to "strap in" than they are for not installing a ROPS... No other small tractor that I know of that comes without a ROPS has a seat belt on it.

Interestingly, the seatbelt comes with the ROPS kits for Kubotas...

 

[SnowRidge]

Wearing a seatbelt on a ROPSless tractor is like wearing a seatbelt on a motorcycle. /forums/images/graemlins/crazy.gif