Mark,
I did have to thread out the top link a bit to have the hitch perpendicular to the ground, but then ran the three point through its full range, and there is plenty of room between the seat and the hitch. I'll just have to bring it back in a bit when i put the blade on the back. Hmmmmmmm...... a hydraulic top link would make short work of that !!!
Gary,
I too figured the plain steel drawbar would be my weak link. I plan on running a brace diagonally from the top of the 3 x 3 to the ends of the drawbar. I had considered making the crossbar out of 3 x 3 also (with some bolt on hitchpins), but i wanted the holes in the drawbar for use with a clevis, or grab hook. I haven't made the braces yet, as i wanted to make the slide in mount for my boom pole, as i will be drilling holes through the sides .... and wanted the holes in place first, so the braces won't interfere with the holes/pins. I guess i figured i'd try the drawbar first... if it bends, i'll cut it out and start over with 3 x 3 .
I still need to get back to the steel shop with my second list of needs.... now that i have the main frame fitted. I was also contemplating making a bracket to hang some suitcase weights.... again, one that will slide into the 2x2 reciever. That way i'll have more weight keeping the scarifier shanks in the ground.... or more weight on the back to counter my (future) front end loader??
Scott