Replace Center Link

wyeguy · Feb 25, 2021

I've got a Ford 1100. Tiny 13HP diesel tractor. A few years ago I bent the original center link but got by ok. Decided to replace it. Got a Country Line replacement at TSC. It broke trying to lift my back blade the first time I tried to use it. The threaded collar broke near the end. Got a similar but I thought better replacement at another local store (Orschelins) used it a couple times recently moving snow. Nothing very stressful. Now its threads seem bungled up. Can't get it to screw all the way in.
A couple people I've talked to said, "Chinese Junk" and maybe it is. But we're talking about a small Cat 1 tractor implements. I don't mind spending more at all but nothing was stocked locally.So I'll order something.
Could I be doing something wrong using these things? Manual, not hydraulic. Any advice on a quality brand? I just never imagined this could be an issue. Thanks.

Cycledude · Feb 25, 2021

I bought one for my 8n Ford tractor about 5 years ago from Fleet Farm it痴 been working great, I mostly use it with a John Deere 3point rear blade for plowing snow and gravel. The threads on the old one were pretty much worn out and sloppy but it still worked. There are Fleet Farm stores in Iowa but I don稚 know if there are any near Bartlett .
Have you tried taking yours apart to oil the threads ?

RjCorazza · Feb 26, 2021

Is it possible the replacement toplink was too long, causing it to bind? Cat1 links come in a variety of lengths.

wyeguy · Feb 26, 2021

I bent the original probably backing into a garden fence post with the tiller.
I've been careful to get the same length link so it didn't goof up adjustments for my implements.
I tried to figure out how to edit my profile last night. I live near York Nebraska now.