Really no need to weld anything, just remove the swinging top link and replace with appropriate spacer for the top hook,if the distance is correct from the bottom pins to were the top link bolt is, then replace ridged supports with chain like you had in mind.
That's the problem! If I remove the link, the distance from the bottom pins will be about 20 inches. So, setting the link to 15" and welding it will be the only way to make it work. Going with the chains will give me the up movement that the link was designed to do. The dealer should tell customers these things. Had I known, I would have gone with the JD hog instead.