Hydraulic top link

[Binford]

CK3520se, and after putting on and taking off the brush hog, I’m going hydraulic top link. Is the tractor a CAT 1?

 

[MtnViewRanch]

Yes, the pins are 3/4" dia and that is a cat 1 unit.
I normally recommend an 18"-25" working length with a 2" dia cylinder for the CK series machines.

 

[Binford]

Awesome thank you!

 

[CalG]

How does one go about adjusting the hydraulic top link length to allow insertion of the pin?

There is no way I can support the top link, hold the pin ready to insert through impliment and rod end run the hydro control for extension and retraction. At least with a screw type top link, I have hands enough ;-)

 

[IndyIan]

How does one go about adjusting the hydraulic top link length to allow insertion of the pin?

There is no way I can support the top link, hold the pin ready to insert through impliment and rod end run the hydro control for extension and retraction. At least with a screw type top link, I have hands enough ;-)

My tractor has a 3pt height lever at the rear, so I just carefully raise or lower the bottom 2 arms until the toplink pin lines up. I suppose if your tractor shuts off when you get out of the seat, then its going to be a PITA... I guess you could raise the 3pt too high, and then get off the tractor, see how close you are and then you can lower the 3pt slowly without the tractor running. For your tractor, the implements shouldn't be too heavy, a spud wrench can probably move any implement and line it up as well.

 

[CloverKnollFarms]

How does one go about adjusting the hydraulic top link length to allow insertion of the pin?

There is no way I can support the top link, hold the pin ready to insert through impliment and rod end run the hydro control for extension and retraction. At least with a screw type top link, I have hands enough ;-)

Quick hitch

 

[CalG]

My tractor has a 3pt height lever at the rear, so I just carefully raise or lower the bottom 2 arms until the toplink pin lines up. I suppose if your tractor shuts off when you get out of the seat, then its going to be a PITA... I guess you could raise the 3pt too high, and then get off the tractor, see how close you are and then you can lower the 3pt slowly without the tractor running. For your tractor, the implements shouldn't be too heavy, a spud wrench can probably move any implement and line it up as well.

Curiously The Hurlimann does not allow lowering the lift arms when the engine/ hydro pump is not turning. Not sure why. And the position/ draft control levers are around the fender anyway.
The action of the lift on the B7200 is so violent and abrupt even with the engine at low idle, that lifting the arms to obtain top link position is a fools mission, Dangerous as well!.
I can see a quick hitch as a solution to a problem I don't have.
But a dumping rear carry all on the B7200 would be mighty handy! I may not have mentioned, The cylinder and end fittings are all assembled, 'Just need the hoses ;-) ;-)

 

[PineRidge]

We added a hydraulic top link years ago, it has saved lots of cussing and bruised fingers. If you can get one with the pilot valve so the cylinder doesn’t leak down

 

[Tinhack]

Add the quick hitch with your hydraulic top link and you'll be happy for the rest of your life. You'll think it's the greatest thing since butter came in a tub.

 

[oosik]

My Fit Rite Hydraulic top link is eleven years old. Still as good as the day it arrived.

I experience the same situation as CalG. Holding the top link UP - while extending to engage the implement.

I have a solution. A short rope to hold the top link up until it's extended far enough to engage the implement.

WoW!! I even have a pic. Showing how this works.

Initially I was going to lean over the seat - grab the rope and hold the top link up - while extending it. This didn't work so very well. So with the mods you can see - I tie the top link up and then extend it. It all works very well.

 

[PineRidge]

I think a quick hitch makes sense if your implements are QH compatible. However not all implements will connect as intended. I have a rotary cutter that requires messing with every time it’s used. The QH also extends the weight of the implement out further putting more stress on the 3-point hitch. Our Quick Hitch sits in the corner of our pole barn, just didn’t work out for our needs.

 

[pmsmechanic]

I think a quick hitch makes sense if your implements are QH compatible. However not all implements will connect as intended. I have a rotary cutter that requires messing with every time it’s used. The QH also extends the weight of the implement out further putting more stress on the 3-point hitch. Our Quick Hitch sits in the corner of our pole barn, just didn’t work out for our needs.

I modified every piece of equipment I own that didn't work with the quick hitch. It wasn't hard and didn't take much and I've had the benefit of easy on/off for 20 years now.

 

[Advil]

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B08JF66Y7N?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title

This kit fits the CK SE tractors and connects directly to the rear remotes. Several youtube videos are out there on installing it. Works great. Takes about 30 mins to install. Worth every penny.