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My 2011 Grasshopper 226V has a fixed ROPS system on it and since I don't mow any steeps and I have some low branches that I don't want to get hung up on I unbolted and removed it. I really hated to give up that bit of extra weight so I drilled some extra holes and was then able to mount the ROPS down lower and out of the way of the low branches. I also filled it with concrete to add even more weight. Overall it gained back the 40.4 lbs for the ROPS, 21.2 lbs for the concrete for a total of 61.2 lbs. I've attached some pictures that should help to show the process. Can add more detail if there is any interest.

maggerdews said:

My 2011 Grasshopper 226V has a fixed ROPS system on it and since I don't mow any steeps and I have some low branches that I don't want to get hung up on I unbolted and removed it. I really hated to give up that bit of extra weight so I drilled some extra holes and was then able to mount the ROPS down lower and out of the way of the low branches. I also filled it with concrete to add even more weight. Overall it gained back the 40.4 lbs for the ROPS, 21.2 lbs for the concrete for a total of 61.2 lbs. I've attached some pictures that should help to show the process. Can add more detail if there is any interest.

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This probably doesn't provide much safety for yourself, since the ROPS is below your head, but it will still protect the mower if it flips and gives you the extra weight you wanted.

lawn mower fanatic said:

This probably doesn't provide much safety for yourself, since the ROPS is below your head, but it will still protect the mower if it flips and gives you the extra weight you wanted.

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It's pretty much just like driving with a fold-able ROPS in the 'down' position. I've removed the seatbelt so with any rollover you wouldn't be trapped and since my yard is quite level the risk is very minimal. Between this mod and the rear guard mod (see other thread I posted: http://www.lawnmowerforum.com/grasshopper-forum/19000-mod-226v-rear-guard.html) I was able to gain about 105 lbs. That, along with keeping the tank over half full gives me better traction. Yeah, I get in a hurry and push the limit most the time so I want all the traction I can get. :tongue: Thanks for the reply!

why do you need better traction if you dont have any slopes to speak of?

txzrider said:

why do you need better traction if you dont have any slopes to speak of?

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Good question txzrider. I mentioned that I don't have any 'steeps' and that the lawn is quite level - by that I mean that there is no chance of rollover anywhere on the 2 acres I mow. But, I do have long gradual inclines that when I mow diagonally will cause some slippage when I make a 180 degree turn back up the incline. No, not a big problem and I could ease around that turn much slower, but I find that bit of extra weight helps me to make that turn quicker. Before the 226V I used to have a JD332 that I ran wheel weights on and I liked the extra traction that gave so I naturally started thinking of ways to add weight to the 226V. Definitely helped, but I must admit that these are not easy mods and not for everyone. Thanks for your question.

Just a warning, adding that extra weight is going to make those wheel motors work a lot harder. To prevent early demise increase your service intervals to make sure you don't have an early major bill.

Rivets said:

Just a warning, adding that extra weight is going to make those wheel motors work a lot harder. To prevent early demise increase your service intervals to make sure you don't have an early major bill.

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Good point and I'll be sure to stay on top of the service intervals. Still, with both mods that I made I gained a net of 65 lbs. Is that really going to stress the parts? I weigh 170 BTW. Thanks for your input.

In my opinion you shouldn't have any problems with the added 100 pounds. Just wanted you to be aware that adding anything more could create some. Just watch your intervals and maybe cut the hydro fluid one by 25%. Totally up to you.

Rivets said:

In my opinion you shouldn't have any problems with the added 100 pounds. Just wanted you to be aware that adding anything more could create some. Just watch your intervals and maybe cut the hydro fluid one by 25%. Totally up to you.

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I'm with you there. Same goes for the engine oil change as I like to give these air cooled engines as much advantage as possible. Thanks again for your help.