Protecting tractor paint around hitch hole

[sgoldste01]

Hi,

I'm a newbie, but I'm guessing I'm not the first to ask this question (although my search didn't reveal anything helpful, so I could be wrong about that).

I just purchased a used JD GT245. It will be used primarily as a mower, but will also occasionally pull a cart or spreader.

My question is regarding the hole on the rear of the tractor into which you can install a hitch ball or a hitch pin for pulling an attachment. Because the previous owner used attachments with hitch pins, the paint around this hole is gone. In fact, he must have done quite a bit of towing, because the hole is slightly elongated as if some of the tractor's steel has worn away.

Anyway, my plan is to sand and paint this area. But I don't want to re-damage it when I tow something with the tractor myself. Is there something I can install to protect the tractor? I'm envisioning some kind of sacraficial flange or something that can be installed in the hole that would take the damage while protecting the tractor itself.

Is there a product out there that will perform this task?

Thanks!

Steve

 

[mmurphy]

Sorry, I have to ask why?
Just let it wear off like we naturally get older, and greyer.:2cents:

 

[gwdixon]

Hmmm....I'd say don't worry about it. That is normal wear rather than any kind of damage. The tractor is not "unprotected".

It would probably be cheaper to replace the part with new. Not familiar with the JD GT245 so can't be sure. I have a JD LA125 mower so if the rear plate is the same it is simply sheet metal and is replaceable.

You could also weld a large grade 8 washer over the hole. One side may need to be trimmed but it should work.

Hadn't heard anyone mention it before but there have been some topics about elongated holes in implements where the top link attaches. Try searching for that.

 

[bigdad]

I'm a newbie, but I'm guessing I'm not the first to ask this question (although my search didn't reveal anything helpful, so I could be wrong about that).

I just purchased a used JD GT245. It will be used primarily as a mower, but will also occasionally pull a cart or spreader.

My question is regarding the hole on the rear of the tractor into which you can install a hitch ball or a hitch pin for pulling an attachment. Because the previous owner used attachments with hitch pins, the paint around this hole is gone. In fact, he must have done quite a bit of towing, because the hole is slightly elongated as if some of the tractor's steel has worn away.

Anyway, my plan is to sand and paint this area. But I don't want to re-damage it when I tow something with the tractor myself. Is there something I can install to protect the tractor? I'm envisioning some kind of sacraficial flange or something that can be installed in the hole that would take the damage while protecting the tractor itself.

Is there a product out there that will perform this task?

Thanks!
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I'd give it a good coat of graphite paint, spray or brush on. It'll keep it from rusting and I can't help but think that the wear will be reduced. I keep all of my pins coated with it. Dust and debris won't stick to it like grease.

 

[jenkinsph]

I would sand, prime and paint it with the Deere paint, let it cure for a week or two. To maintain it in "mint" condition I simply would not use it.

 

[radioman]

To maintain it in "mint" condition I simply would not use it.

Doesn't this defeat the purpose of having a tractor ? :laughing:

 

[jenkinsph]

Yeah but if you want to protect the finish on the hitch pin hole thats what it takes.

 

[funwithahoe]

You would be farther ahead to get a job paying a couple of dollars an hour and replace it when it wears out. I am not someone who abuses my tractor - I respect it and treat it right but it is like any other tool and that means over time (a long time) it will wear out. Plan on replacing it if you are lucky enough to outlive it (most of us won't and I don't think I will but I am 36).

Enjoy your tractor!

 

[kebo]

If the OP is smart, he'll repaint the damage as suggested by jenkins, and then fabricate (or have fabricated) a nice bolt-on heavy gauge plate with a 90deg bend (lip) at the bottom that extends out horizontal about 3-4 inches. This is where you drill a hole and use to mount trailer balls or just pin a trailer to it. I've seen a picture on here somewhere that another forum member did that to his garden tractor. The factory "hitch bracket" is not particularly strong on most that I have seen, so he beefed his up some. It looked really good, and was much stronger than the original, but yet could be unbolted for the stock appearance.

 

[devildog1]

"Protecting tractor paint around hitch hole", Say What? Use it but don't abuse is the word, that's what the hole is for.:laughing::laughing::laughing:
DevilDog