3-Point Hitch Lift Rod Damage

[ShenandoahJoe]

Kubota B7300. I bought it used, with a damaged lift rod on the 3-pt hitch. The handle that you're supposed to use to adjust the length was broken off the middle portion of the lift rod. I've been using a big pair of channel-lock pliers to turn it. Well, that chews up the metal pretty badly, so I went and bought a new one.

I put the new piece in place. It turned out to be very easy to turn it by hand to a point where it can't be un-twisted from the top portion without my trusty channel-locks. I think this is because the top portion is bent out of shape. (I've never seen what it's supposed to look like.) I think I know how the handle got broken off the original mid-section, now, too.

Do I need to buy a new top rod? Or is there something I can do to rehabilitate the one I've got?

 

[k0ua]

obviously your top rod is bent all to ****. you will need a new one.
James K0UA

 

[k0ua]

oh, and also check the bottom rod, by taking the whole rod assembly off of the tractor and try turning the bottom rod thru its range to see if if is ok, sometimes when they have seen that much strain the threads of the bottom one may be "boogered" also even if they look ok at first glance. sometimes the threads get pulled or pushed together a little. and it still may hang up. You should be able to turn both rods all the way in and out easily with you fingers, when they are lubricated
James K0UA

 

[MarkV]

Joe that top link is shot!! I think the last one I bought from tractor supply was about $25. Just replace it and you will find adjustments much easier to make.

MarkV

 

[SPYDERLK]

There is a purposefully deformed thread on the inner end of the stud to let you know not to extend the link any further. It isnt kinked, so it would be best to just straighten it while still in the center portion. Screw the stud in until the tread binds as much as you can go by hand. Then, using wood as a cushion, clamp one part [probably the center] in a sturdy vise and work on the bent stud with cushion, hammer, levers etc til its straight. Go in small steps. It will get easier as you go. You will notice that you will be able to screw the stud in more and more as it straightens. Use a little heat to help. 400F is quite safe for the metal properties. A regular propane torch would be good because it would be hard pressed to heat it above 600. Thats the top of the safe range to retain properties.
How far are you from Orange?
Or ... if you have a friend with a press.
larry

 

[ShenandoahJoe]

Well, I asked.

The trick will be to straighten the part that's not supposed to be bent, but not the part that is supposed to be. I don't see much chance I'll be able to get it exactly lined up with the other two sections. Sounds like it's time to say goodbye to a few bucks, and the folks at tractorsmart will solve the problem for me.