Converting Top Link To Hydraulic

[kozak]

Hi all,

When I purchased my Tractor, I had Dealership install a pair of remotes. The remotes are plumbed to some sort of valve that is controlled by a lever that was added.

From all the threads I have reviewed on this topic, it would seem all I have to do is replace the mechanical top link with a hydraulic cylinder from CCM & then just connect the ports via two hoses to the pair of remotes & I'm done. Is it really that simple since I already have the remotes ??

Thanks For Any Input,


Vic

[MtnViewRanch]

Vic, yes it is that simple. Measure your existing top link to get your shortest and longest lengths. As long as you are happy with those lengths, then get the closest top link that will match. If you need it to be shorter or longer for some of your implements, then you may need to take that into consideration when purchasing your top link.

Good luck

[Bird]

Yep, like Brian said, it's really that simple.

[jinman]

Vic, you will not only need to know the proper length of the toplink, but also the size of hoses and length. Mark at CCM will make hoses for you and include the proper sized adapters to go to your 1/2" QDs (if you order the hose kit--recommended). I would suggest 1/4" hoses at 36" long. That way you can make a stress relief loop and attach the hoses to your HTL. Be sure and run the 3PH up and down to make sure everything clears. Your tractor has a hanger for the toplink when it is not in use. Make sure this hanger will not snag your HTL hoses. I just push mine out of the way to the left. When I disconnect the HTL and don't want it hanging down, I pull the hanger back out and hook the hoses to hold it up out of the way.

Here is a picture of my connections.

Oh yes. . .the other thing you have to decide is which way to attach the hydraulic hoses. Do you want the HTL to extend when you move the remote lever toward the rear of the tractor and retract when you push it forward? Swap your hoses in the remote QDs until you get it working the way you are most comfortable with.

[anojones]

I just added a ccm toplink and ordered the hoses from them as well. The only issue I had was leaking hydraulic fluid at the hose/toplink connection. I tried a number of liquid sealants and eventually carefully used teflon tape which stopped the leak. In general, avoiding teflon tape in a hydraulic system is best, you don't want bits of tape getting into the system so you must be careful. Otherwise, since you all ready have remotes, install is simple. Be careful that it doesn't bind or hit anything when you install it- I removed the old top link hanger and some have had to remove the PTO saftey cover as well.

[kozak]

MOST Excellent.....thanks for the great info. I was always wondering what that hanger was for

Jinman, do you really think I need 36" hoses given the proximity of my remotes to the top link ??

Vic

[MtnViewRanch]

I have a few questions for you guys. Those of you that have CCM top links, would it be better to have the DPOCV at one end vs the other end? So does it work out to have it like in Jim's picture, or would it be better to have it out closer to the ram? I see most top links have the outlets straight up, when I made my "TnT" I put the fittings to the side, and that has worked well for me. One last thing, I have adapted my stock top link hangers to hold my hydraulic top links, has anybody else done the same?

Thanks for any responses, but not really any big deal, just wondering.

[Charlesaf3]

I had CCM do mine with the dpocv on the side - b3030 is really tight, and top hits into the back of the sheet metal

[MtnViewRanch]

Originally Posted by Charlesaf3

I had CCM do mine with the dpocv on the side - b3030 is really tight, and top hits into the back of the sheet metal

I was thinking that on the smaller tractors it would be better on the side.
Charles, did you ever get your side link for the 3030?

[jinman]

Originally Posted by kozak

MOST Excellent.....thanks for the great info. I was always wondering what that hanger was for

Jinman, do you really think I need 36" hoses given the proximity of my remotes to the top link ??

Vic

Vic, if you can find a 1/2" diameter rope, take a 36" piece and make a loop. You need the loop for the hoses minimum bend radius. Place the looped hose in the approximate position of the new toplink and see what you think. I think 36" is the perfect size for the least stress on the hose. Also, I think you will find that you have plenty of room for your hoses to come out the top of the DPOCV. If you put it to the side, it may interfere with additional QDs you could add later. Up is best in my opinion. I'll try to find picture that demonstrates this tomorrow.