3 Point Geometry or how short a top link?

[dougtrr2]

Looking to make a counterweight out of a plastic 55 gallon drum. Initial mock up would wind up with a top link only 9 " long, unless I build partitions to move it inside the drum. Would there be any problem with a link that short? Could I dispense with an adjustable link and just make a fixed linked out of heavy flat stock? I followed other links on this board and could not find top links short enough. Thanks for the input.

Take Care,
Doug in SW Ia

 

[Redneck in training]

You need to move the hitch pins from the center to closer to front of the weight. That way the mass will act on longer arm and balance the FEL better (assuming that is the reason for having it). In other words it will not need be be as heavy.

 

[Wolfy]

I have seen homemade concrete counterweights where the top link wasn't even used. The downside I could see might be more swaying.

 

[Redneck in training]

Yes that is another option if the center of gravity is below the pins top link is not necessary.

 

[k0ua]

If you want I will send you an excell program that will help calculate all of your dimensions for the 3pt connections for your ballast box, I used it for mine, but it will take a while to understand and take all the measurements it wants for inputs. And of course you need to know how to use Microsoft Excell. It will come with the measurements of my tractor (L3400) in it. I suggest you save a copy of it as you get it and then make another copy with a different file name for your tractor to start making changes. That way you will have a reference to start over if you need to. There is a little "graphic" that will give you an idea of the lift angles involved. Free if you want it. just let me know. Oh by the way I did not author it. I got it on here somewhere, about a year ago.

James K0UA