ROPS Protection For Older Tractors

ROPS Protection For Older Tractors TRACTORS Accessories 31-2-29 If you own an older tractor without a rollover protective structure (ROPS), you can easily add to it with these new ROPS structures being imported from Australia by a California company. Hercules E-Z Fit ROPS are designed for tractors made from 1939 to 1985 that weigh 7,000 lbs. or less. The structures fit imported Japanese tractors as well as most tractors made in the U.S. and Canada. They come equipped with a seat belt and mounting hardware. No special tools are required to install. "As far as I know we're the only company that sells such a wide variety of aftermarket ROPS structures for small older tractors," says Ron DePue, Apple Valley, Calif. "Hercules has been making ROPS in Australia for a long time. About 1 1/2 years ago they started developing ROPS to meet OSHA and ASAE specifications for the North American market. "In the U.S. and Canada, ROPS were optional equipment on all new tractors sold up until 1990. After that they became mandatory equipment by law, so all the tractor manufacturers started putting them on their tractors. However, tractor manufacturers quit making ROPS for their older tractors so they haven't been available in the U.S. for years." He says the Ford 8N, Massey Ferguson 65, and all the imported Japanese brands like Yanmar and Kubota are popular candidates for add-on ROPS. According to DePue, last year 255 people died in tractor rollovers in the U.S. And for every death there were 400 crippling injuries. "So many tractor owners never install a ROPS until someone gets killed. ROPS are cheap insurance because they save lives." To save money some people build their own ROPS, but DePue says that's usually not a good idea, no matter how strong the structures are built. "A ROPS needs a certain amount of flexibility so that it can absorb the shock. Anyone can build a rigid structure, but usually when a tractor tips over it busts the housing because it doesn't give, and someone gets injured or killed." He notes that in many areas there's a new incentive to buy a ROPS. "Many states have recently begun offering rebate programs if you retrofit an older tractor with a ROPS. New York has a 70 percent rebate program for anyone who buys a ROPS, and Virginia offers $150." They sell for $480 to $680 plus S&H, depending on tractor size. Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Ron DePue, 13580 Central Rd., Apple Valley, Calif. 92308 (ph 760 240-1062; fax 760 240-1126; sales@hstractor.com; www hstractor.com).

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