York rake conversion

[raykos]

Hello all,

Don't know if this is the right place to post this question, but, I have a old 4' York Rake that I used to drag behind my riding mower. It has wheels, and when you wanted to unload the debris, you would have to lean backwards, squeeze the ratchet and lift the rake.
Now, I have a JD 2305 with a 3pt hitch, and I'm wondering if somebody has any plans/diagrams/etc. on how to convert the old rake into a 3pt hitch rake that I could use with my new 2305? Unfortunately, I think it will probably need some kind of welding to accomplish what I want to do, and welding was one of the things I never learned along the way to retirement; but, there's nothing that says I can't learn now. So, any directions, suggestions, ideas, etc. welcomed.

Thanks in advance,
raykos

 

[bx24]

Post some pictures and I am sure you will get some suggestions .... I am not familiar with the model numbers you mention, but with a little bit of welding, you can do almost anything. You can pick up a flux core wire welder (120vac) for a couple of hundred bucks that with a couple of passes will weld 1/4" + steel.

 

[TRUKFXR]

CONVERSION CAN BE DONE, BUT IF YOU HAVE TO PAY FOR SOMEONE TO DO THE WELDING, IT MAY COST MORE THAN IT WOULD BE WORTH. HOWEVER, NOW THAT YOU ARE RETIRED, LEARNING TO WELD IS A LOT EASIER THAN YOU MIGHT BELIEVE. FIRST YOU NEED THE BASICS AND THE REST IS JUST PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE. SINCE YOUR WELDS ARE NOT GOING TO BE INSPECTED BY THE FOREMAN, YOU COULD DO YOUR JOB WITH SOME STRANGE LOOKING WELDS AND STILL ACCOMPLISH THE TASK. I THINK YOU WOULD ENJOY THE EXPERIENCE. DON'T DISCOUNT THE STICK WELDER. I USE
AN INEXPENSIVE ONE AND IT DOES THE JOB.

 

[raykos]

OK, I'm going to try and attach a front % back view picture....

 

[irwin]

Time to get a welder! good luck

 

[GreenMtns]

I would think a simple draw-bar from ASC or TSC or any tractor sales would do with a set of tie chains to keep it centered and prevent the rake from going off side when lifted. However the problem you are going to have is with the wheels. They don't swivel and are meant to follow a pin point on the tractor draw-bar. If you get that one figured out you are on the way.

Al

 

[Thomas]

Maybe this might be of some help???...my old York rake refab to fit 3 point hitch.
You could go to most any tractor dealer and purchase A frame that fits to 3 point hitch,than cut off drop pin hitch at the neck on the rake and weld A frame hitch to rake...You'll see where I welded piece of 1/2" roll onto A frame also rake for support...sorry it rough looking job..it was a tinker job,but it's strong indeed and works darn well for the last 12 years in the woods.

Rear wheels...I remove the and welded plate across both iron tubes which gives more support...I did try rake w/the wheels left on,but making turn the wheels dug in.

If any question give a shout.

 

[raykos]

Hi Thomas,
Thanks for the post & the pictures...yep, sure does look like my rake and what I want to do with it. Could I impose on you just a little more, and ask for some pictures of the rake from the rear? Not, quite sure of, "...welded plate across both iron tubes..."?

Thanks,
raykos

 

[Thomas]

Morn raykos.
I snap pics your seeking this evening and post them.

 

[Thomas]

As the frame tubing bends towards the wheels...if you decide to remove the wheels??...pick a spot and cut wheels free,than weld 1/4" to both tubes for strenght.