Top-Link Ram problems??

[k0ua]

Brian, If'n I just get a shorter ram - how will that stop the rubbing effect? Whenever I retract fully, ram connects with the BB A-frame? Don't I need to get an extension on the ram end? What is that called - offset? That's the area that I'm unsure about. If I get a 10" ram, with a 12" cylinder then I'd have 2" of room at A-frame end; but won't that also make the ram more prone to bendage??

Lastly, if you guys believe that grinding on my A-frame is the best fix -- then guess I'll bite my teeth & just grind out a notch. I just don't want to ruin a good tool by doing something unnecessary

In my opinion if you had a shorter ram, it may not hit the BB at all because of the change of angles, You see you are putting the ram/boxblade in a "cramp" because the ram is fully retracted and still too long for the boxblade to pivot and it hits the ram body. This is what bent the ram in the first place. if the ram was shorter it probably would not hit at all, and if it did then start grinding. It will not really weaken the BB. Of course if you own a welder you can always put the metal back in if you grind out too much. Dont worry about the grinding, rest assured it is not irreversible. My 2 cents, and take this opinion/advice for what you paid for it but I would get a new 10 inch ram and then grind or not grind after I carefully tested the install:thumbsup:

James K0UA

 

[Eagleview]

The only other option that I can think of is to get a piece of hollow bar , say 2" long and cut it in half lengthwise . Put the two halves on the rod and weld them back together , also weld them on the eye end of the rod so they stay put . This will limit how far the rod can retract and being smaller in diameter will negate the need to grind the frame because it will clear the ears . It should also stop the bent section of rod entering the cylinder . Just make sure the hollow bar you use is big enough not to enter the seal area on the cap . I have also seen spacers in two halves with grub screws to hold the halves together but I don't know where you would get one . Once you see the photo you will understand what I am talking about .

This idea may give you a fix without replacing the ram .