Yanmar Tiller 2 point to 3 point conversion

[CBW1999]

I was able to get this tiller late last summer from Ductape (Thanks!) and finally have had some time to work on it.

Keep in mind, that I haven't done much welding in a VERY long time. It may be ugly, but the welds are holding!

I usually do not like to physically alter the original equipment, so much as to build something that will function, but may be removed on the odd ball chance that I sell it to someone who wants it in the original functioning condition.

So, after looking at some of the other members who have done similar modifications, I came up with my "version" of how to do it...more of a hybrid than anything else. Initially, most of this was going to be a "mock up" and then re-enforced as needed.

This is the unmodified tiller:

 

[CBW1999]

The lower arms of the lift frame connect to the tillers outer drive shaft tube- using muffler clamps that I welded to the end of the box tubing. I thought of using the brackets for axle springs, but didn't want to invest the money if it wasn't going to work.

 

[CBW1999]

The cross piece going towards the PTO "box"- at first did butt up against the frame. The shaft that went through the mounting hole had been drilled to use a snap ring for preventing lateral shifting to the outside. (the initial design was not intended to be quick hitch compatible).

These shaft pieces and the lower lift pins were welded to the outside to make things simpler. Although I had wanted to drill holes to make it look nicer- my brothers suggestion was easier and saved a lot of time.

 

[CBW1999]

The top arm I had cut and drilled by someone I know. I didn't have the time or access to the shop to get it done any time soon. My design was slightly off, so I had to gas cut a notch to allow the hook to move into position (no clearance). I used a grade 8, 1 inch bolt using washers as spacers to connect it through the mounting hole that was used for the original height adjustment wheel.

When I was hooking everything up, I was surprised that I was able to space everything and align it to work with the quick hitch! The only change is that I did not use the inner snap rings on the shaft by the PTO. Everything held tight, it operated smoothly and has a lot of ground clearance.

 

[CBW1999]

I was not too surprised when I was draining the gear oil and the equivalent of canned gravy came out?. I値l run it this spring and then change it again. It should flush out any remaining crud. Otherwise everything turns smoothly. It will need to get a new set of tines next year- again didn稚 want to spend the money if it was not going to work at all.

I am waiting for delivery of the slip clutch- then I will be able to measure for the correct PTO length. I still have to tinker with the original spline connector; I may shorten it by removing the center part. I知 not sure yet because I do not know if I can take it apart without breaking it!

As soon as I get the drive train complete and operating, I will post the pictures.

My plans for next winter is to take everything apart, repair and repaint the tiller and probably 喪ebuild the 3 point lift to look prettier.

 

[Ductape]

I was not too surprised when I was draining the gear oil and the equivalent of canned gravy came out?. I値l run it this spring and then change it again. It should flush out any remaining crud. Otherwise everything turns smoothly.

I'm not surprised considering the sham artist you got that tiller from !!

Oh, wait..... that was me !!

I'm glad to see it will be tilling soon. Looks good so far. If it were me, I'd tie the center bar into the two side pieces...... as I'd fear it will want to 'buck' with even the slightest play in the pins (but I could be way off!). Since the original PTO shaft 'slipped' on the splines on the tiller end, have you figured a way to secure the tiller end of the new shaft?? I had figured I'd try to drill through the yoke and input shaft on the tiller and put a pin through both. No doubt I'da broke 12 drill bits trying to go through that hardened input shaft though.

Glad to see it will be tilling some soil this year.

 

[Roonabeck]

I was not too surprised when I was draining the gear oil and the equivalent of canned gravy came out?

I'm not surprised considering the sham artist you got that tiller from !!

You know it's funny Ductape, just the other day I was wondering what happened to that can of gravy I used to keep next to the tiller......

CBW1999, I hope your conversion functions well; that tiller's needed some good use for a few years now.

 

[CBW1999]

Everything is finished and working (although I am behind on posting this) I posted a video on YouTube about the whole project. Hopefully this link will work

YouTube - Yanmar RS1201 Tiller conversion to 3 point hitch

Enjoy!....don't laugh too hard

 

[Roonabeck]

I like the idea with the collar and set screw to keep the u-joint from sliding off -- much easier than trying to drill through the shaft!

 

[boxorox]

dang it I passed a yanmar tiller up the other day.