New shop started

plastikosmd · Mar 7, 2020

Ok arms installed, just need to add stabilizer links

Big Barn · Mar 7, 2020

Looks awesome. What’s the plan for the stabilizer links? Are they Stratton supplied or do you have to make your own? Bars? Chain and turnbuckle? Internal sway blocks?

I couldn’t see enough detail to tell what would work.

I had a whole pallet (well 6 or 7) of those Category 2 JD quick hitches. I kept one and sold the rest.

plastikosmd · Mar 7, 2020

Has chains already
There is a couple bars I have to order. Nothing complex
Stratton is no more, sadly. This lift was the last generation of 3 pt lifts for the jeep. Personally, I think the best one. In the original design, the goal was not to alter any of the jeep functions (ground clearance, bed space, etc)
Once the gas tank was moved from under the seat to under the bed, the lift had no place to go
If u go here:

Stratton 3 point hitch - The CJ2A Page Forums - Page 1

U can see the bars.

Mine still works well with chains

daugen · Mar 8, 2020

this is one impressive project, fun to watch you make progress with it.

If you weld, hard not to hoard metal pieces. I'm a terrible welder but have a nice pile of small pieces ready for something.
I even keep my old worn out mower blades in case a small chunk of strong steel is needed. It's cutting them up that is always the
hard part for me without a plasma cutter or a power metal saw. Just hand power equipment with diamond wheels.

plastikosmd · Mar 8, 2020

I used a torch for years. Frankly, I use my m18 fuel grinder with a cut off wheel more than anything. Unless I’m cutting a pattern or plate, the m18 gets me by (and is quick!)
I tried the diamond a while and went back to the diablo 5”, 1mm thick abrasive wheel. They cut like a hot knife and being relatively thin require less energy (that’s great for the battery.)

Another great thing to save are the cut off pieces shaped like triangles (of all sizes)
I have a 5 gallon bucket of these and are my go-to for gussets.

Big Barn · Mar 8, 2020

plastikosmd said:
Another great thing to save are the cut off pieces shaped like triangles (of all sizes)
I have a 5 gallon bucket of these and are my go-to for gussets.

Me too!!

Plus all the centers and slugs from using the hole saw. And the arcs left over from large circles cut with the torch or plasma.

daugen · Mar 12, 2020

it's not like those saved pieces are going to wear out...so why not.
It is so satisfying to go looking for a piece that size, and find it.
My metal pieces are all stored in a metal trash can.
Tractor Supply has a small selection of metal but pretty pricey.