With the mounting pics shown here its 9.5" at the bottom of the drawbar, 11" at the bottom of the subframe, and 14" at the bottom of the backhoe. What do you think?
That looks good. Tightly coupled to the tractor, and good ground clearance.
Have you extended the outriggers in this mockup to be assured of good
range of motion?
What is the limiting clearance? You mentioned it was likely to be the
back end of the swing cyls when I asked on my 4300 thread. Do you
have a photo and measurement of the tightest area? You certainly have
to be careful if you plan to use chains. I am comfortable with 1" tire
clearance to new tires, but you will need at least another 1-2" if you are
going to use chains. Turfs will have awful traction in snow. How much
additional wheel radius do you think the chains add?
One more thing: you are going to bump your head on the ROPS. These
JDs need taller ROPS. Good thing I am short.
