CHAIN FOR THIS JOHN DEERE HAY/GRAIN ELEVATOR - DON'T KNOW WHAT MODEL IT IS!

[barryjam2016]

I just bought this 36 foot John Deere hay/grain elevator to do some experiments. The chain on it is good, but I am told that it will break at some point. So I'm looking for replacement chain. Problem is the plate with the model etc. is completely unreadable. I know it's a John Deere because that is printed on the side and I suspect it's an older model because it has cables to lift it rather than solid steel frame members. The closest I could find was a 321? There is an 8088-C embossed in 1/2 inch numbers next to the unreadable plate. Any ideas about this unit would be appreciated. Thanks for anything you can tell me about it, parts, operation, anything. I want to try to use it to move mixed paper - may have to do some creative retrofitting.

Barry

 

[Tx Jim]

I guessed at the elevator model # as 300 but size of chain should be stamped on chain link if not worn off by use. I came up with chain size of "55". Can you provide me with the correct elevator model #?

 

[barryjam2016]

I guessed at the elevator model # as 300 but size of chain should be stamped on chain link if not worn off by use. I came up with chain size of "55". Can you provide me with the correct elevator model #?

There are no numbers on the elevator. There is a nameplate but the information is totally worn off.

 

[barryjam2016]

I guessed at the elevator model # as 300 but size of chain should be stamped on chain link if not worn off by use. I came up with chain size of "55". Can you provide me with the correct elevator model #?

I think you figured out the chain type. I just looked closely at the chain in the picture on the right that I attached. It looks like every link has the number "55" stamped in it. Now that we know the chain number, where do I get something like that?
Thanks again for solving the chain puzzle!
Barry

 

[Tx Jim]

Back when I was employed at a JD dealership I sold the customer how ever many links of different number chain they desired. You could try Tractor Supply,Motion ind or some other farm supply store.

 

[beenthere]

Or try your JD dealer...

or search for JD chain link 55

get something like this
#55 STEEL DETACHABLE CHAIN

 

[5030]

Common elevator / manure spreader chain. TSC will have it. The trick to making them last is keeping them oiled. Used motor oil works real well.

 

[barryjam2016]

Common elevator / manure spreader chain. TSC will have it. The trick to making them last is keeping them oiled. Used motor oil works real well.

Yes, I have been told a number of times to keep the chain lubed. What is the best way to apply the used motor oil without getting it all over the place? Oil can? Garden sprayer? Do you run the chain and stand in one place to oil it or do you walk up and down the length of the elevator and just shoot it on? I'm trying to avoid an oil waterfall along the inside of the elevator.
Thanks. Barry

 

[beenthere]

Used to have a couple rags dragging on the chain as it returns, and put some oil on the rags to keep them with a thin film of oil. Doesn't take much oil...

And the square chain repair tool will be needed.. shown here at TSC
Cast Iron Steel and Roller Chain Detacher - For Life Out Here

 

[5030]

Actually, I have 2, one like yours for loading bales in the upper loft and a shorter hay only elevator for loading trucks. I fill a small garden sprayer with a mix of used motor oil and diesel, about 50-50 and sprat it on the chains as the move (from the ground) about 2 times a year.

I use the same sprayer with more diesel and less oil to oil mist my balers and mowers prior to winter storage. Keeps things from rusting in the barn all winter.

Keep all the pivots and axles well greased too. Many elevators have died an early death from sprockets hanging up and ripping chains apart. I just rebuilt an old ground drive for a lady down the road. Never greased it and tore the bed chain apart. I had to machine new sprockets, replacement parts were unavailable.