Floating Top Link?

[greg_g]

</font><font color="blue" class="small">( The reason I am asking the question a second time is because I incorporated float in my TNT and whether it makes any sense or not ... )</font>
I don't think so. The TNT remains on the tractor, regardless of the implement attached. But not all implements need to "float". Matter of fact in some, rigidity is key to efficient operation.

Consider the TNT as part of the TPH, and a floating toplink bracket as part of the implement. Install floating toplink brackets on only those implements that need them.

//greg//

 

[RalphVa]

I need some pictures to know what some of you are talking about. Have seen pics of chains in place of the screw-type top links. My LX4 has some form of slip link in the linkages that telegraphs back to the tail wheel. Haven't seen any pics of adjustable or movable top links or mechanisms that some of you are talking about.

Seems as though brush hogs need wheels in front like is on some of the rear finish mowers, but then the hydraulics need to be able to float. The Woods finish mowers seem to have chains rigged from where the top link from the tractor attaches and run back to the tail wheel.

Here's a pic of my planned chain for the tractor top link.

Ralph

 

[greg_g]

</font><font color="blue" class="small">( My LX4 has some form of slip link in the linkages that telegraphs back to the tail wheel. )</font>
Then you'll be disappointed to learn that what you think is a linkage, is just a toplink pin for their iMatch.

There are more, but I'll upload shots of the U-type Henro's got, followed by the 3-sided type I've got. Both as you will see, provide the missing pivot point required for terrain following, while retaining the rigidity required for lifting on the horizontal plane.

//greg//

 

[greg_g]

and the 3-sided type

//greg//

 

[JackIL]

Ralph and Greg,

Attached in this post and the following 3 replys are photos from the JD LX4 Operators Manual that illustrate how the floating hitch works with the IMatch Coupler and without it. The float capability is built in to the top portion, but it doesn't look like the usual floating link on other cutters. It functions the same whether there is an IMatch coupler or not.

You set the rear tail wheel to get the proper height in the rear and then lower the front with the 3PH until it is slightly lower than the rear in most cases. At that point you set the depth stop on the control lever of the 3 PH so you can always return to the same front cutting height. Then you adjust the length of the top link of the 3 point until the pin B in the photos is in the center of the slot. This provides the full range of float and also picks up the rear tail wheel the proper amount when the cutter is lifted for turning or transport.

JackIL

 

[JackIL]

Details of float mechanism. Note the Slot.

 

[JackIL]

Without IMatch.

 

[JackIL]

Float Mechanism details. Without IMatch.

JackIL

 

[tomnky]

Look at a a Woods RM500 Finish Mower, It has a form of floating toplink.

 

[greg_g]

</font><font color="blue" class="small">( Float Mechanism details. Without IMatch. )</font>
Doesn't look like it permits much play (float) at all Jack, but then again - we're only talking 4 foot cutter here, I usually think in larger terms.

But it pretty much reinforces the idea that the toplink on Ralph's 4010 must be too long - which effectively cancels what little freedom of movement is shown in your JX(x) illustrations, AND, that his chain idea is not compatible with JD design

//greg//