Ratcheting top link-CategoryI

Soundguy · Apr 24, 2002

It isn't ratcheting, but some new holland tractors have a hand crank style connecting link. I've seen many peope convert those connecting links to toplinks. New holland even sells the toplink end sections..
I had our local machine shop weld ends on one for me, for my yanmar 1700.

Soundguy

ns_in_tex · Apr 24, 2002

beenthere, Good Idea, I presume you are talking about something like a satellite dish actuator. If someone isn't making one, maybe that should be something for the drawing board. You rang my bell. Attached is picts an old one I put to great use last year. Since I am about over the hill, I have to look for easier ways to do things. I change a lot of air conditioners by my self now & got tired of dollying them around the houses.
Just tried it out of things on the place. Couldn't even find the voltage on the motor, but hooked it up to 12 volt battery & it worked. Someone told me later the actuator was rated at 1500 lbs. Of course, had to add a little concrete & railroad iron to front of mower.

ns_in_tex · Apr 24, 2002

Close up of lift

kyoders · Apr 24, 2002

If you are looking for linear actuators, try Motion Systems at http://www.actuator.com/. I haven't figured out where to buy them (direct/distributor), but I bought a Cat 0 3pt hitch for my ATV, and it uses one of their units for raising/lowering the lift arms. It's an incredibly strong unit. The best thing about them is that they free-wheel at the ends of the stroke. No slip clutches to wear out, and no limit switches. They seem to be the only manufacturer that has this. I'm not sure they would be good for a top link, though (or any manufacturer's). Most of them are quite strong in the direction of motion, but can't take much side-load.

Kevin