How to convert Cat 2 Brush Hog for Cat 1 Tractor

   / How to convert Cat 2 Brush Hog for Cat 1 Tractor #1  

swmich42

Bronze Member
Joined
May 12, 2009
Messages
98
Location
Southwest Michigan
Tractor
2000 John Deere 4700 4x4 Hydro
Purchased used JD 609, which is set up as Cat 2. I plan to use this behind my JD 4700 which is Cat 1. I have read the threads regarding the best method to convert the lower arm pins from Cat 2 on the implement, to Cat 1.
Sounds like I need to install Cat 1 pins for the lower arms. The top link connection on the mower also needs to receive a new bushing for the top link to function properly. TSC and/or Agsupplyonline appears to have the correct parts for the conversion. Anyone recently have success with similar situation? And any additional recommendations?

I also am concerned about the Cat 2 spread of 32", vs the Cat 1 spread of
28", and the ability to fit this between my rear tires; and the heighth of the top link connection. Cat 1 is obviously lower than the Cat 2. Any recommendations?

My last question is how best to check this mower overall, prior to running on my tractor. I plan to check the gear case oil level/quality and change if required. (will I need to replace gearcase cover gasket when done?) The blades are the main question, and how best to check (what to look for) their condition. (ie crack's, bends, etc.)

Why did I buy this large rotary cutter for my 4700? I could not pass up this deal. I also puchased a very nice LP2572, which is in very good shape.

Sorry for the long note, but now that I have real implements, it is hard to concentrate on much else. I have owned the tractor some some time with only a drawbar and clevis between the 3pt arms, to drag trees.
 
   / How to convert Cat 2 Brush Hog for Cat 1 Tractor #2  
Concerning the 32 inch spread. Can you turn 1 or both pins inward to narrow back to category 1 dimensionals? Ken Sweet
 
   / How to convert Cat 2 Brush Hog for Cat 1 Tractor #3  
Concerning the 32 inch spread. Can you turn 1 or both pins inward to narrow back to category 1 dimensionals? Ken Sweet
ken, i think turning them inward would only gain you the width of the support they are bolted to. so maybe 1/4" at best on each side. . . right? sorry but i don't know of any easy fix for it.
 
   / How to convert Cat 2 Brush Hog for Cat 1 Tractor #4  
I think you can swap out the pins and also turn them in on that monster. Hopefully the arms on your tractor can swing in and then out to engage in such a scenario.

Also, do you have any weight up front in the tractor. The hog, when raised, might make the tractor really light in the front end - not a good feeling!
 
   / How to convert Cat 2 Brush Hog for Cat 1 Tractor #5  
ken, i think turning them inward would only gain you the width of the support they are bolted to. so maybe 1/4" at best on each side. . . right? sorry but i don't know of any easy fix for it.

Center to center - I think you'll gain 2"-3" inches on EACH side. The support is more likely 1/2" to 3/4", but the big gain is from flipping the pin to the inside.
 
   / How to convert Cat 2 Brush Hog for Cat 1 Tractor #6  
ken, i think turning them inward would only gain you the width of the support they are bolted to. so maybe 1/4" at best on each side. . . right? sorry but i don't know of any easy fix for it.

If you turn 1 pin around, that will gain reduce width 3-4 inches. Ken Sweet
 
   / How to convert Cat 2 Brush Hog for Cat 1 Tractor #7  
i guess i don't get it. I can see where you would not have to spread the lower links as wide to install them but after looking at some of my attachments
i can see where i might gain about an inch, (thickness of the steel that the pin in mounted on, and then there is a shoulder at the end of the pin) but i can't see where you can get 3" per side what am i missing?
Thanks
 
   / How to convert Cat 2 Brush Hog for Cat 1 Tractor
  • Thread Starter
#8  
I plan to get two 70 lb quick tatch weights for front on Saturday. I can add more, but these things are expensive. Looked for used, but cannot find.
 
   / How to convert Cat 2 Brush Hog for Cat 1 Tractor
  • Thread Starter
#9  
Thanks for the suggestions. I contacted JD Dealer near me, and ordered threaded lower lift arm replacement pins. (threaded end is 1 1/8", pin end is 7/8") converting the implements cat 2 pins to cat 1. I plan to move either both or one to the inside. Each frame member which holds these pins is approx 3" in diameter, and will provide enough relief to keep lower arms narrow enough for my rear tires/wheels. (thanks Ken for the recommendation. Did not realize I could move to inside....now that I look at that solution, seems obvious and simple) Also ordered top link bushing, which will convert cat 2 to 1. Prices were very reasonable, compared to previous posts. I will pay $4.72 for each of the pins, and $ 4.00 for the bushing. I also ordered two 70lb front quick-tatch weights, and will see if I need more. Could not find used. Plan to test rotary mower this weekend. I also need to install front/rear solid guards, but will get to these after I confirm all is well with general mower function. I will post pics of the set up. Thanks again for the help. This site is one of the best in knowledgeable advice.
 
   / How to convert Cat 2 Brush Hog for Cat 1 Tractor #10  
(thanks Ken for the recommendation. Did not realize I could move to inside....now that I look at that solution, seems obvious and simple) Also ordered top link bushing, which will convert cat 2 to 1. Prices were very reasonable, compared to previous posts.

Glad to be of help. When a person farms, we have think in different ways than most. Our way of doing things may not be "conventional", however, it usually the simplest and least expensive. "Times being what they are" inexpensive is a good thing. Ken Sweet
 
 
 
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