3-Point Hitch TC18 Spring

[BuzzyG]

This forum has been invaluable to me already, and I have only had the machine for a couple of months. Thanks to all who haunt this forum and lend their expertise so freely.

My TC18 has a large spring dangling under the tractor from the right side of three point hitch. I can tell where the loose end is supposed to be connected by looking at the other side. But the spring is so large that I can't yet imagine a means of getting it stretched to the point that it reaches its intended location.

What does this spring do and how can I get it reconnected?

 

[jwstewar]

The only spring I can thing of is for a MMM. Can you post a picture?

 

[BuzzyG]

I confess to being a novice. What is an MMM?

 

[BuzzyG]

If it's mid-mounted mower, there is one of those on the tractor.

 

[barbqranch]

If there isn't a mid mounted mower, it is probably left from when one was mounted previously.

 

[jwstewar]

Yes, MMM refers to Mid-Mount Mower. If it is the spring I'm talking about, they can be a beast to get back in place. Do you have the installation manual for the MMM? I had the cotter pin wear one time and let that spring slip off. I also had one installed incorrectly by the dealer. So I'm well aware of the trouble to get these things back in place. I actually have the cotter pins on my list of things to check now and replace them and the retaining washer about 1 a year or so.

I wish I remember exactly what you have to do to get tha spring in place, but I don't remember. I know it included taking the mower deck off and then raising the 3 PT. hitch. and then LOTS & LOTS of tugging and pulling.

If you don't have the installation manual, let me know, and I'll see if I can find a page or 2 for the directions.