Inspector507,
Question. Does this top link replace the one that is already on the tractor, and what is that valve set-up that is mounted lengthwise along the top link?
Yes, this replaces the existing top link. The valve is a safety lock in the event of a line rupture. The link locks to prevent a lifted implement from dropping due to a rapidly extending top link.
<A target="_blank" HREF=http://www.tractorbynet.com/forumfiles/5-186253-FreedomHitchwithLandPride-1024.jpg>Last Freedom Hitch shot with Land Pride...</A>