Loosen your turnbuckles and you will find it possible to open a BX 3 pt to over 28" with no problem. Not saying those turnbuckles are a lot of fun, though.
That's what I was overlooking, mine are bent from using the rear blade, so I never try to adjust them. I'll straighten them out and see if that works. Thanks.
As to spreading the arms for attachment, I do what's described in this thread. Gotta be careful though. I've twice bent check chains doing this - forgetting to reattach them before backing up.