1700 ROPS

[Marada]

After feeling my 1700f start going over sidways while I had a load in the FEL I'm thinking I need a ROPS. After seeing the prices I'm kicking around building one. It looks like I can secure it to the rear axle mounts by using a flat plate. Then weld a U shaped piece to them. Right behind the seat weld a cross bar. My question is what material to use. Round or square tubing and what thickness?

 

[svcguy]

You are venturing into one of the most controversial areas of Grey market tractors. Most people will not encourage anyone to build their own, as those that have failed have failed big time. The problem is that a ROPS is not a sun shade, and the difference is apparently not easily understood by many. A ROPS is not rocket science, but it so critical to someones life, that a homebuilt ROPS is sketchy until rolled. I built my own and am confident it will prevent my tractor from a rear flip or a side flop. Until that happens though, the jury will be out. I won't advise anyone to build their own when they are only $800 (cheap insurance), but for those who are going to anyways:

1) Use grade 8 bolts for attachment.
2) Ensure attachment is to major cast flanges meant for the ROPS.
3) Web any area of attachment.
4) Know your welding.

Below is my thread about my homemade ROPS. Hope it is useful to your decision.

http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/build-yourself/104835-homemade-rops.html

Tom

 

[svcguy]

Marada,

This link was posted into my thread, but just want to make sure you pick up on it:

http://www.public-health.uiowa.edu/face/Reports/PDF-Reports/Rops-Rollover Final.pdf

This is a good example of someone trying to create a ROPS, but really had nothing more than a sun shade. That attachment shows a serious misunderstanding of basic engineering concepts.

 

[kenmac]

This pic has been around for some time. The rops didn't fail . It was the point of attachment ( axle housing) that failed.I wouldn't want to be the test dummy for anyone's homemade rops