Three point hitch on LS5030 - top link questions.

[hcf]

Hi All,

Was out measuring pins,lengths, etc on the 3ph to double check things before ordering a top & tilt. The LS5030 is advertised as having a cat 2 3ph, and the lower pins and hitch spacing are consistent with cat 2 specs. On the other hand, the pins in the top link are only 3/4" (Cat 1) instead of 1" like a Cat 2.

1. What's up with having a cat 1 top link and cat 2 lower arms?

2. If I buy a hydraulic top link should I stick with the 3/4" pins and rule out the option of hooking onto something with a true cat 2 hitch? Or will limiting myself to a cat 1 top link keep me from doing something stupid?

3. The existing top link has about 11" of adjustment but some of the hydraulic top links only have 8". Will I miss the extra 3" of adjustment?

Thank you in advance for imparting your wisdom,

HCF

 

[MrChris]

Don't have an answer to your cat2 question but I for one would not give up the 3" of length on the cylinder especially if you plan on going with any type of quick hitch.

 

[hcf]

Thanks MrChris, that's a good point. I want to keep that option available. One question down, two to go.

 

[Deerherd]

1. Sounds like you may have been given a cat 1 top link when you bought the tractor, some dealers remove them from the tractors so they don't get "lost" . It could have just been a mix up.

2. Get the correct Cat 2 size, if you get top and tilt or use the OEM top link it will make attaching implements consistent. I have purchased two sets of top and tilt from Fit Rite Hydraulics, the price is fair and Brian worked with my dealer so it would be on there at delivery.

3. A lot will depend on what implements you use, if you are finding you are using the adjustment now you may want to go with the longer.

It's much harder finding and more expensive going with cat 2 implements, that's what I'm finding out! Good luck!

 

[ozley]

My 5030 came with a cat 2 & cat 1 end for the top link you screw in the end as you need to change. It was behind the seat on the floor.

 

[Guesseral]

Yea get the cat 2 if you need to hook up to a cat 1 implement get the reducing sleeves. You can always reduce down but you can't grow it bigger if you need it!

 

[ozley]

Here is my cat 2 end for the top link

 

[mjcountrybumpkin]

You will likely never miss 3" of adjustment on the top link. Go with category 2 and just use reducing bushings for your pins.and if you ever have a reason for the extra adjustment just put the standard top link back on for that rare instance when you feel like spending 10 minutes screwing it out and in.

 

[ozley]

Yea if the dealer gives it to you or you find it just throw it away.

 

[hcf]

Ozley - THANK YOU - I got one too but forgot about it - am embarrassed about that The tractor end of the top link is set up for 3/4" pins only and I didn't stop to think about the other end being interchangeable.

Thanks to all of you you helped clear up my confusion and fuzzy brain on this issue.