Top Link length Measurement

GaryM · Nov 24, 2003

How is the length of a top link specified? Is it the shortest length or perhaps middle length? The toplink that came with my JD4100 is too long for the rear blade that I received as a freebe. It's too long to get the rotaion axis vertical. So as a result the blade doesn't stay level as it's rotated to throw material to either side.

I'm assuming that the rotation axis should be vertical, but maybe that's not the case.

CTyler · Nov 24, 2003

You would need the Min/Max lengths for the TL to size it properly. You should be able to tilt forward and back with a level point somewhere in the middle.

When level you should be able to rotate the blade and it will stay level.

rambler · Nov 24, 2003

Sounds like you have it figured out right, you need a shorter one. I always see them listed with a max/min length.

--->Paul

GaryM · Nov 24, 2003

So I guess I need to crank mine all the way in and look for one that's about that long extended.
Sounds like a plan. Thanks for the information!

OkieG · Nov 25, 2003

Gary,
Another option is to add an alternative attachment point on your backblade for your toplink. Weld a couple of metal ears that extend back, behind your current attachment point with holes drilled in them to fit your toplink pin. Then, you should be able to make your blade pivot axis vertical and not bother buying an extra short toplink (which might be very hard to find in the first place). If you can't weld, you might even be able to attach the ears by bolting them using the current toplink pin holes as bolt holes.

OkieG

GaryM · Nov 26, 2003

That's a good idea. Actually, I might not need the new toplink at all. The draft arms ahve been extended with a set of the Easy Change disconnects and that added 5 inches or so to the length. That might be enough to solve the problem. I've just not mounted the blade since adding the disconnects.

We're not living in the new house yet so when we do go out there it's always time to do something else other than fit scraper blades. But earier in the year when I did have the blade mounted I could see that the pivot wasn't vertical. And that means the blade drops on one side as the angle changes. Trying to get ready for snow as we hope to be moving in in January.

OkieG · Nov 27, 2003

<font color="blue"> The draft arms ahve been extended with a set of the Easy Change disconnects and that added 5 inches or so </font>

Great. Seems to me that lengthening the lift arms should help as much as shortening the toplink to square up the pivot axis to vertical.

OkieG