Adjustable Cat1 Top Link Pin?

[bhh]

So I finally got around to installing the check chains discussed here...
http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/attachments/316654-check-chains-kubota-l3800.html

Unfortunately I didn't take pictures but I did a quick sketch that shows the way I think I'm going to hook it up. Basically the brackets that the chain hooks into is going to get secured to the same bracket that the toplink gets hooked to on the outside of the bracket though as their is not room on the inside of the bracket due to the toplink "socket". I basically need a longer Toplink Pin to accomodate the two 1/4" plates. To be tight, I need exactly 3" of usable space on the toplink pin and I have not been able to find one that length anywhere, including online. I am using a longer one I had for now that is about 4-4.5" but the brackets kind of flop around and I'd like them to be nice and tight and it is currently maybe putting too much force on the cotter pin as well as they want to pull outward when under load. I see there are adjustable draw pins but I haven't been able to find a 3/4" dia. top link pin that is adjustable either. Does anyone have any good ideas or know of a source for either a 3" toplink pin (exact) or an adjustable one? I'm not sure I would trust a bolt. I hope this is somewhat clear, if not I'll try and remember to take pics next weekend.

 

[bhh]

I just ordered a 3/4" x 4" #10 Grade 8 Bolt, Nut and a couple of washers. Hopefully that will work.

 

[bcp]

Lots of people don't use a top link pin, but just a hitch pin of the same diameter.

Bruce

 

[Ford850]

Drill a new hole in your longer pin and cut off the extra length.

 

[BlacknTan]

Drill a new hole in your longer pin and cut off the extra length.

This is what I did with mine ..

 

[Ford850]

This is what I did with mine ..

I was surprised how soft the pins are. I've done this several times, customizing pins to fit just right. The first one I did was for check chain attachment just like bhh is doing.

 

[bhh]

It never even occurred to me to just drill out a pin. I even have a drill press.
Since it is on a quick-hitch, it doesn't get swapped out all that often. Anyone see a problem with the Grade 8 bolt I ordered?

 

[Ford850]

No problem using a bolt. I was just giving you another option.

 

[GreenWannabe]

Woods included a 6" grade 5 bolt with deformed lock nut on my chain kit, but I want to be able to remove it easily. I bought a hitch pin with a 4-1/4" useable length to replace the bolt. I had the slop on the hooks with that six inch bolt as well, so I think they mean for it to have some degree of looseness.