3 point drawbar attached to the top link?

[Hammy75]

Good day all.

I have a simple 3 point drawbar to move my trailers around the yard and am thinking of putting an upright on each side them a cross piece at the top with a connection point for the top link. I have some 2" square stock that is the perfect size but it's only 1/8" thick. Any chance this will be fine or should I buy some 1/4". Originally I was thinking it would be ok as it will only serve to keep the bar from rotating but I cut it up tonight and I am rethinking it.

It will only pull empty trailers to move them around the yard. A 5x10 utility trailer and 12' stock trailer. I have a ball on the proper drawbar if I ever need to pull a loaded trailer. Any input is appreciated.

Thanks

 

[aczlan]

I would use something heavier (3/16" or 1/4") or just use a shackle in the end hole of the drawbar and around the lower link to stop it from rotating.

Aaron Z

 

[Luke'sScreenName]

Do a search for "draw bar lock." TSC sells them for about $20.

 

[Hammy75]

Do a search for "draw bar lock." TSC sells them for about $20.

Thanks. I will check that out. Sounds like an easy solution. I was also thinking I could attach a couple chainsaw scabbards to the top cross piece and maybe a couple tubes down the sides for chains. I would like to go ahead with top link project.

 

[Hammy75]

I would use something heavier (3/16" or 1/4") or just use a shackle in the end hole of the drawbar and around the lower link to stop it from rotating.

Aaron Z

Thanks Aaron. I was thinking it looked a bit weak. I might just pick up some 1/4" stock on my way home from work tomorrow if nobody chimes in thinking the 1/8" will work. I just have the 1/8" and it's already cut to length. Also free is my favourite price.

 

[pmsmechanic]

This will easily be enough strength for the trailer weight's you mentioned. I would weld on a two inch receiver for your other trailer hitch and use the hitch out of your truck to bull the larger trailer around. I have a two inch ball on my trailer mover and I use it for all my 2 5/16th's hitches. I just back up and lift with the three point. You don't even need to get off to remove the trailer jack.

My apologies for contradicting the guys that mention thicker wall metal. I understand the desire for strength but you have to lift the hitch up to attach it to your three point and at my age I just don't like to make things heavier than they need to be.

 

[Hammy75]

This will easily be enough strength for the trailer weight's you mentioned. I would weld on a two inch receiver for your other trailer hitch and use the hitch out of your truck to bull the larger trailer around. I have a two inch ball on my trailer mover and I use it for all my 2 5/16th's hitches. I just back up and lift with the three point. You don't even need to get off to remove the trailer jack.

My apologies for contradicting the guys that mention thicker wall metal. I understand the desire for strength but you have to lift the hitch up to attach it to your three point and at my age I just don't like to make things heavier than they need to be.

Thanks for the input. I was thinking of putting a receiver on as well. Might pick one up and run 1/4" flat stock straight up to the top link. This little project is getting better

 

[r porter]

no need to over buld it

i have used this for years




set it on the drawbar and drop 2 pins - it has never came loose- but you could bolt it if you are paranoid

 

[r porter]

i just recently got a new welder and made this carry all for it.

 

[Hammy75]

no need to over buld it

i have used this for years




set it on the drawbar and drop 2 pins - it has never came loose- but you could bolt it if you are paranoid

Looks like a great idea! How thick is the steel you used? Looks a bit beefier than what I have. Might add a receiver as well. Thanks for posting