Ford 1715 side link.

[3 Horse Ranch]

The adjustable side link on my tractor is worn out. The threads on bottom and cemter sections are barely holding and it often slips a little when I hit a bump. I've looked at replacing the whole thing but the cost was close to $300, which is highway robbery for such a simple part. (It's basically a small top link)

I purchased what I thought was a replacement for $35 but the ball hole is 3/4 but my tractor has. 7/8s pin. The two solutions I can think of are pressing out the 7/8s pin and installing a 3/4 pin or finding a shop that will cut the ball end off both and weld the 7/8s ball end on to the replacement link. Pressing out the pin will require removing the lifting arm from the splins and finding a shop to press the pin out. I am leaning towards the cut and weld solution.

My absolute first choice would be to buy a replacement that fits, either aftermarket or used at a reasonable price. I sire would like to find a source if anyone knows of one. Or if anyone jas a better solution, I'd lile to hear that also.

 

[fried1765]

I bought a complete aftermarket replacement adjustable side link (very reasonable) for my Ford 1920, but mine does not have the ball ends that you describe.
I thought all these Shibaura compacts had essentially the same side link system.
Apparently not!

 

[3 Horse Ranch]

I bought a complete aftermarket replacement adjustable side link (very reasonable) for my Ford 1920, but mine does not have the ball ends that you describe.
I thought all these Shibaura compacts had essentially the same side link system.
Apparently not!

I looked at the parts diagrams at Messicks and it appears that the 1715 and a few others have that ball type side link. Other manufacturers use the ball link, but use what is apparently the standardized 3/4" size.