I have been thinking about fabricating something for the 3ph that would make a few thing easier in my life. So. I came up with this franken-hitch thingamabob that will allow me to do three things without having to do too much to the 3ph. The original idea was to make something that will allow me to haul a log or two and also to be able to hook up a trailer within moments.
Function #1
The two hooks on top will help to lift the log and I can just wrap the slack end of the chain back around the log and lead it to the lower hooks. That way the pulling force will come from the lower arms of the 3ph thus reducing the danger of damaging something or rolling the tractor. The lower hooks serve a double function. The pins hold the whole contraption in place on a draw-bar that is inside the bottom piece.
Function #2
I'm sure you figured that the center receiver is for a trailer hitch.
Function #3
In the process I thought I might as well make it a little more complicated and use this as a weight box as well. In photo #6 you can see a crude drawing that represents a cage I will make to hold about 150# of weight. That should help with keeping the hitch down while pulling a trailer and that weight will pretty much stay there all the time. The cage will also add a bit more strength to the whole thing. I will not forget to leave room for the top link.
The two receivers in the lower corners will serve to hold the rest of the counter weight. I picked up 350# of gym weights at a yard sale for $20. That will make a handsome addition and I have an idea how to attach it to my contraption within a minute.
I expect to complete it as I have the time.
Observations and ideas are much welcomed.
It looks big and heavy but I will only take it off the tractor for the winter when it's time for snow removal and the rear blade is needed. I also attached a picture of one of my ugly welds. I know you guys want to see that
Function #1
The two hooks on top will help to lift the log and I can just wrap the slack end of the chain back around the log and lead it to the lower hooks. That way the pulling force will come from the lower arms of the 3ph thus reducing the danger of damaging something or rolling the tractor. The lower hooks serve a double function. The pins hold the whole contraption in place on a draw-bar that is inside the bottom piece.
Function #2
I'm sure you figured that the center receiver is for a trailer hitch.
Function #3
In the process I thought I might as well make it a little more complicated and use this as a weight box as well. In photo #6 you can see a crude drawing that represents a cage I will make to hold about 150# of weight. That should help with keeping the hitch down while pulling a trailer and that weight will pretty much stay there all the time. The cage will also add a bit more strength to the whole thing. I will not forget to leave room for the top link.
The two receivers in the lower corners will serve to hold the rest of the counter weight. I picked up 350# of gym weights at a yard sale for $20. That will make a handsome addition and I have an idea how to attach it to my contraption within a minute.
I expect to complete it as I have the time.
Observations and ideas are much welcomed.
It looks big and heavy but I will only take it off the tractor for the winter when it's time for snow removal and the rear blade is needed. I also attached a picture of one of my ugly welds. I know you guys want to see that