3 pt Conversion - measurements needed

Harv · Jan 18, 2001

DDT -

Thanks for the suggestions. /w3tcompact/icons/smile.gif

I've been slowly collecting bits and pieces for making 3-pt attachments, even though I haven't even started such a project yet. It just seems like good stuff to have around. /w3tcompact/icons/wink.gif

So far I have 4 lift pins, an assortment of angle iron scraps and various diameters of round stock. Didn't think to get any 7/8" stuff. I assumed it was a good idea to use grade 8 for lifting, but you're right, some implements, like a chain-link drag groomer, would probably do fine with a lesser grade.

Time to swing by the ol' scrap yard again.

jyoutz · Jan 18, 2001

John, Have you considered just putting a 3 point hitch carryall on your hitch and covering it with a piece of plywood. Then you could just set your sprayer on top of the carryall and strap it down to the carryall. Seems like that would be pretty simple and cheap. You may not even need the plywood, depending on the size of the sprayer and how it fits on the carryall.

john_bud · Jan 19, 2001

Jyoutz,

Say, that's a good idea! BUT, right now I have the sprayer disassembled, support plate welded on one side and one lift pin in place. Doh! Actually, the fabrication is going pretty smooth, so I can't complain. I spent an hour last night for one side, I can't work on it tonight as I am watching my son but I expect that I should be done with the other side tomorrow.

I have been looking over all of my tractor advertisements to get a feel for the top link height. I thought it was about a foot, but "DDT" has posted that 18" is more accurate. (Thanks! /w3tcompact/icons/smile.gif) Actually, the John Deere 4000 series propaganda shows some pretty good photo's of the 3pt connections. (The 4300 was my 2nd choice tractor, but the Kub had a slightly lower price and I didn't get good vibs from the JD dealer). Anyway, I will try and mock up the top link at the recommended 18" and see if the tractor likes it.

I did take a half dozen snap shots on the process so far. I can really see how a digital camera can speed up the process as I sit here waiting to use the rest of the roll before going to develop the film!

Important safety tip for other part time welders out there, "Grind the paint off of BOTH sides of the metal, before welding" /w3tcompact/icons/blush.gif

John Bud

DDT · Jan 19, 2001

John Bud, I have made alot of 3 point attachments. 18" to 19" seems to work well for cat 1- 3point. Don't quote me but If I remember right 12" height is right for cat 0- 3point. I am in the process of putting hyd cylinder on my 7' rear blade so I can reangle the blade from the seat for snow removal, I know I'm getting lazy, but it sure will be nice.

john_bud · Jan 25, 2001

DDT, (and everyone else, too)

I did get the welding done on the project over the weekend/w3tcompact/icons/smile.gif, but I had to travel from Wisconsin to Austin, TX on Monday for business so I didn't get to do anything since then /w3tcompact/icons/frown.gif. The final measurements I used are 24 1/2 inches separation between the lift pins and 19" above the lift pin center line for the top link pin. I reinforced the top link with the original trailer tongue that I flipped from horizontal to vertial and shortened. I also ran reinforcement straps from the edges of the top link A frame to the back of the spray cart. I still need to wire brush the welding slag off, sand blast it, paint and re-assemble the poly tank and the engine, but aside from that I'm done with the hard stuff/w3tcompact/icons/wink.gif. I basically took more and more of it apart as the project progressed until it was all apart! Once again, saving time leaving stuff in place didn't save any time at all.

Does any one know the Kubota Orange paint pigment mix ratio? I want to paint it to match my tractor, which is a new Grand L, but I would rather spray it myself than use a rattle can. It would be real sweet if I could get an Imron to match. I will be stopping by the paint store next week to get some, but I only have the sales brochure for a color match.

I am hoping that I can get the photo's I took developed and scanned in over the weekend....

John Bud

Harv · Jan 25, 2001

DDT -

Sounds like you're doing a great job, Dude! /w3tcompact/icons/smile.gif

I'm anxious to see the pictures.

Jag · Jan 26, 2001

John, do not forget that basic black attachments go great with Kubota orange.

john_bud · Jan 27, 2001

I finally have some photos to share. They aren't the slick digital ones, just scaned in prints from Walmart! /w3tcompact/icons/frown.gif I hope they aren't too disappointing.

Here is the "Before" picture. The tongue for the spray cart is already off at this point. You can also see the hose reel that I added. That is a real nice and easy thing for any chemical sprayer. It really helps with spraying the apple orchard!

john_bud · Jan 27, 2001

Here is an in process photo. I am attempting to line up the A-frame sides for the Top Link. The metal A-frame is 2" wide by 3/16 thick iron. I used a 3 pound hammer, select cuss words and a bench vice to form them. /w3tcompact/icons/wink.gif

You can also see that the spray cart is now completely stripped. (except for the rotary pump)

john_bud · Jan 27, 2001

Here is the cart with the finished top link and side lift pins in place. I later added more support straps from the sides of the A-frame to the back of the cart. After it is painted orange I will post photos showing that!

Thanks for listening to me and providing needed information.
This is the best Tractor forum!

John Bud