JD4300 Center Link

[sloch24]

I finally got something to use my 3-point hitch for, and I need some help. The center link that came with my tractor is a Cat1 to Cat2 link. I originally thought I could just buy a bushing for the cat2 end, but there are "handles" welded on the link that hit my mid-mower hydraulic hoses mounted above the hitch.

I'm thinking about buying a new Center Link. I have the John Deere part number, but I'm wondering what everyone here thinks about the aftermarket links that can be bought for a fraction of the cost of going with JD. I have a Tractor Supply, Family Farm and Home, and a Rural King all within driving distance.

The JD part I'm looking at is AM119698. Does anyone know what length link this tractor comes with? The aftermarket links look like they come in different sizes. Without an original to compare with, how do I know which one to get? With the one that I have now, I can level the attachment (Trailer Mover).

Another question I have is which end is supposed to be adjustable? I'm assuming it's the implement end, but my current link will not install this way so the adjustable end has to be at the tractor. I'm assuming that's part of my problem with the handles hitting, but I thought I'd ask.

Any help is appreciated! I'm a total newbie to all of this 3-point stuff!

 

[rekees4300]

Does anyone know what length link this tractor comes with?

Another question I have is which end is supposed to be adjustable?

It's adjustable from approximately 19" to 29". Both ends adjust simultaneously, it is a turnbuckle.

 

[sloch24]

It's adjustable from approximately 19" to 29". Both ends adjust simultaneously, it is a turnbuckle.

Cool. Thanks for the info! I appreciate it.

The link that I was given with the tractor is welded on the one side. It makes sense that it should be adjustable without removing it.

Any thoughts on aftermarket top links vs. JD? There's a HUGE price difference.

 

[rekees4300]

Personally I only buy JD genuine parts. IMO you get what you pay for. Good luck.

 

[sloch24]

Thanks again.

When you measured, did you measure from end to end, or from the center of the pins?

 

[rekees4300]

Center of the pins

 

[sloch24]

Okay, Thanks

 

[dfkrug]

Any thoughts on aftermarket top links vs. JD? There's a HUGE price difference.

This is one place where the aftermarket are clearly better than OEM. That applies to all
the JD, Kubota, and Kioti toplinks I have owned. I have prob bought 7 or 8 of the Agrisupply
toplinks, CAT 1 in 2 different lengths. Their threaded rods are larger in diameter. I have
had numerous damaged JD and Kub toplinks, damaged by bending in the threaded areas.

$25-$30 gets a very nice toplink.

 

[sloch24]

This is one place where the aftermarket are clearly better than OEM. That applies to all
the JD, Kubota, and Kioti toplinks I have owned. I have prob bought 7 or 8 of the Agrisupply
toplinks, CAT 1 in 2 different lengths. Their threaded rods are larger in diameter. I have
had numerous damaged JD and Kub toplinks, damaged by bending in the threaded areas.

$25-$30 gets a very nice toplink.

Thanks for the info! I'll have to check out Agri-Supply, they don't have any stores up here, but I've ordered from them in the past with good results.

 

[dfkrug]

Tractor Supply and Surplus Center also have them at good prices.