Suggestions for ROPS lights

[Speedy7]

Ok, I think I've found the perfect (at least for me) solution for mounting the ROPS lights. Initially, I tried to order the 2" magnetic welding ground from Harbour Freight, but they were all out. So I went looking for other magnetic mounts and found these Mighty Mag mounts. I think they are designed for aligment on jigs or something, but they work out great for lights. They have two thumbscrew holes in which you can directly place the light fixture bolt into and secure in place (pic attached). You could also use it to mount a light bar if you prefer.

The magnetic mount makes them easy to put on and remove, plus you can face them forward or backwards as required. I wired a 12V outlet to the pigtail under the seat, and have a 12V plug on the lights. So it's completely removeable, and meets my needs for an occasional work light. I may eventually wire in a switch, but at this point, it works for me.

SP

 

[TimP]

Speedy7,

Where did you buy the Magnets from? Cost? Which model tractor do you have?

I have a B2150, and from what I've read in the past, a lot of people use magnet mounts of some sort and have been happy with them.

Tim

 

[Speedy7]

I bought them off eBay, about $15 each shipped. Bit steeper than I wanted to pay. The 2" welding ground magnets were only $4 each minus shipping. But they were out of stock and I couldn't wait.

I have a BX 23, but they should work on any tractor's ROPS

 

[ToolDad]

I used Av8r2230's post for my project guidelines.Work Lights

I used round Speaker brand 35Watt lights with built in switches ($26ea). Mounted two forward and one rear facing. Used a 30A auto relay to tie into the headlight switch, yet I have the option of selecting individually which lights burn.

Some of the wiring was not as neat as I would have liked, but in the short run I was unable to loacte the appropriate multi-pin connectors, so everywhere I spliced in, I created a Y-connection which added to the bulk. They make splice connectors, but they are not weather protective. I used insulated connectors and heat shrink tubing at every joint.

All in all though, it is relatively neat. I am attaching some photos (may require multiple posts). Take a look and see what you think.

Regarding tapping into the ROPS, I am a mechanical enginneer (20+ yrs) and agree that it will not negatively impact the structural integrity or safety.

 

[ToolDad]

Close up frontal shot.

 

[ToolDad]

Rear view - bracket and wiring.

 

[ToolDad]

Lower wire feed.

 

[Av8r3400]

**Gasp**

/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

 

[Speedy7]

And here's how they look on the ROPS. I'm considering turning them 90 degrees, then each magnet could hold two lights, one forward and one back.

 

[ToolDad]

And under the seat. Really could have used a multi-pin connector here. Oh well.