Longer Top Link

[MNVikingsGuy]

I just bought a Betstco flail mower for my LX3310. When I get the mower on the 3pt hitch, I do not have enough length (fully extended) to tip the rear of the mower 15% as required for proper operation. I assume I can get a longer top link for my 3pt. Is this the case? If so, where might I get one?

This is my first tractor so any help is appreciated.

 

[jimh406]

I don’t know much about where you are, but Tractor Supply sells them, of course, there’s the dealers, and maybe Rural King.

Good luck!

 

[dirtydeed]

I just bought a Betstco flail mower for my LX3310. When I get the mower on the 3pt hitch, I do not have enough length (fully extended) to tip the rear of the mower 15% as required for proper operation. I assume I can get a longer top link for my 3pt. Is this the case? If so, where might I get one?

This is my first tractor so any help is appreciated.

I have a BETSTCO flail myself with virtually the same tractor as yours. I don't think you really should be tipping the rear of the mower. They generally run level, with perhaps only a slightly elevated front.

I believe that perhaps you may have misinterpreted the manual? the 15 degrees that they mention is a suggestion that you don't run it with the PTO shaft being more than 15 degrees from horizontal (up or down). I can assure you that I have on occasion when mowing into ditches or lifting to get up close to a tree, with no ill outcome.

 

[MNVikingsGuy]

I have a BETSTCO flail myself with virtually the same tractor as yours. I don't think you really should be tipping the rear of the mower. They generally run level, with perhaps only a slightly elevated front.

I believe that perhaps you may have misinterpreted the manual? the 15 degrees that they mention is a suggestion that you don't run it with the PTO shaft being more than 15 degrees from horizontal (up or down). I can assure you that I have on occasion when mowing into ditches or lifting to get up close to a tree, with no ill outcome.

Thanks. I flipped the black 3-pto semi-vertical brackets around (I had them in the orientation of the setup video, but the switch solved the problem.

As for 15 degrees, here is the quote from the manual:

So, not sure what to make of that, but when I used it tonight I just set at level-ish.

 

[19thSF]

Hello Vikings fan!

eparts.shop is a good place to find tractor parts. There is always Tractor Supply and the numerous other farm supply retail chains. An online search for tractor top link will show several sources of supply. Looks like you are all set for now.

We had some strange weather in New England yesterday. I was concerned about plowing when I should have been thinking about mowing.

Good luck to you!

 

[dirtydeed]

Thanks. I flipped the black 3-pto semi-vertical brackets around (I had them in the orientation of the setup video, but the switch solved the problem.

As for 15 degrees, here is the quote from the manual:

View attachment 58341
So, not sure what to make of that, but when I used it tonight I just set at level-ish.

Haha. That's interesting. Below is a screen capture from their manual that I have for my mower: Anyway, I'm sure you'll be fine as long as you use common sense.

 

[RCW]

I actually prefer some of the aftermarket top links. Took my OEM off pretty quickly in favor of a $30 aftermarket.

 

[MNVikingsGuy]

I actually prefer some of the aftermarket top links. Took my OEM off pretty quickly in favor of a $30 aftermarket.

Any specific recommendation? What are the upsides?

 

[RCW]

Any specific recommendation? What are the upsides?

Honestly , I didn't care for the OEM link, and I think it didn't adjust long/short enough for my box blade. Seemed like it was a hassle to adjust too. It's been 8 years, so just going by memory.

I bought a link at a Mahindra dealership, but it's about the same as all the chain places have - - TSC, etc. I think mine little one for a BX with an 11" barrel was $25, and it is a Cat 1 link. You'd want a longer barrel.

I like the bar through the barrel to get a hold of, and also like the more coarse threads. Adjusts quickly and easily.

On a BX, the eyes on the link are often too wide to fit in the tractor bracket. 2 minutes with a bench grinder fixes that. May not be an issue on a larger tractor.

PS - - I use Fluid Film on the TL threads...works great and doesn't attract dirt.