3-Point Hitch CK20 Adjustable lift link tensile failure

sschriber · Nov 15, 2010

Yesterday I was doing some trail work with an unloaded Interforst 35E 3pt skidder on the back when I heard a pop then a crash behind me. On investigating I found the adjustable side link had come apart (tensile failure) right where the threaded rod joins the "C" shaped lower arm connector. The winch weighs less than 500lbs, but I do notice that it "bounces" when I drive over roots and ruts. The center of gravity is only about 6 inches beyond the lower arm mount points. This 3pt winch is a pretty useful attachment and I thought the CK20 made a perfect "gentleman forester" skidder. My concern is am I over-loading the lift system? If I have too big a log load attached, my hydraulics lets me know. Are the CK20 links subject to failure? There are just 60 hrs on the tractor. Thanks.

wade simpson · Nov 15, 2010

I'm sure our tractors could handle that weight. The manual says 1109 lbs 24 in out (about the full extension of the 3 pt arms). The 6 " extra may cause some problems but shouldn't break that link. That arm would have only supported 1/2 the weight which really isn't very much. I'm sure my box blade weighs somewhere around 300 lbs and it way out there in back. The bouncing around could be part of the problem, some accelerations in there. I'm sure you travel with the arms up, that would reduce the moment arm as well. I'd bet it was just a bad part, weak from the start just needed enough weight to get it to go.

I've seen bolts break at the same point, right where the thread ends or starts, at work but that is usually a torsion related break. It must be the weakest area of a threaded rod.

sschriber · Nov 24, 2010

I had the piece welded back together as a quick fix and ordered the threaded/u-connector part of the link for $15 from Kioti. Hopefully, this will keep me for a while. Thanks to everyone who responded.

wade simpson · Nov 24, 2010

When I got divorced I let my welder go out of temporary insanity. I miss that thing so much..I'll probably buy a new one.

Did you check about the warrenty or is that long gone? I'm sure it was a bad part.

Lately I've been gathering a lot of wood. I think some type of winch may save some wear and tear as I have to get within around 20' to get a chain on them. That usuaslly involves making some type of path.