using chain for a top link ?

mfreund · Apr 13, 2013

Hydraulic top link would be the better option. My 3rd service has a float option and the box blade does not work as well in float.

gwdixon · Apr 13, 2013

Tig said:
I have a pallet fork type attachment with a chain attachment for the top link. Probably not safe for a tall load which could tip back on the operator, but fine for loads only a few feet tall.

I can see how that would work fine with the weight extending the chain and putting tension on it. A problem might arise if, when traveling forward, the heel of the forks caught on the ground, on a curb, or something like that. The fork tips would whip upward and dump the load on the operator. Just don't be carrying a 55 gallon drum of sulfuric acid.

MtnViewRanch · Apr 13, 2013

There may be certain things where using a chain for a top link may work, grading is not one of them.

ovrszd · Apr 13, 2013

MtnViewRanch said:
Just another reason why one wants to have the float function available for their hydraulic top link.

I haven't had a chance to try it yet, but that's how I'm thinking I'll run my hydraulic top link when pulling my 3pt mounted brush cutter. That will give even more flexibility over uneven ground than is built into the hitch of the cutter. Good point.

whistlepig · Apr 13, 2013

I once owned a rotary cutter that had a top link made 1/2" thick by 1 1/2" bar stock with a 8" piece of chain welded on the cutter end. I had it many years and that set up worked very well.

Tig · Apr 14, 2013

gwdixon said:
I can see how that would work fine with the weight extending the chain and putting tension on it. A problem might arise if, when traveling forward, the heel of the forks caught on the ground, on a curb, or something like that. The fork tips would whip upward and dump the load on the operator. Just don't be carrying a 55 gallon drum of sulfuric acid.

The chain is attached at two points, with a few inches of slack. You'd need more chain or better yet a solid top link to connect it. I think the intent is to provide limited float to aid in picking things up. I bought this piece at auction. It probably weighs more than a quarter of my TPH capacity. I imagined using it to move firewood on a pallet, but never have. Not very useful, but still part of my attachment collection.