Removal of Bent Holder Lift Link in B4200D

[B4200D-Oldy]

Newbie here! Anyone know what the usual procedure is to remove a Holder Lift Link assembly (Pt #76502-51192) of a mid mount mower in an older Kubota B4200D tractor? This is the linkage that lifts the mower deck. It looks like the linkage bar is slightly bent, so it won't rotate in the horizontal tube of the assembly meaning the lift tabs can't be moved. So even though I've detached it from the transmission case and loader subframe, I cannot wiggle it out from between the subframe. it looks like I could remove the subframe, but I'd like to avoid that, unless that is part of the normal removal procedure. I was hoping to take this part to a shop where they could bend it straight so it will rotate again. Any ideas.

 

[Bee-Positive]

I've been wrong (several times) before but looking at the parts diagram I don't believe there's anything that "rotates" in the tube. Looks like it's all one piece and the linkages rotate on the ends. There's only the one part number for it and no indication of a separate shaft running through it. Not sure if you could get enough leverage on it to bend it straight without taking it off the tractor.

As to getting it out - it appears to put the FU in FUN. Hopefully others here with more experience have an easier solution.

 

[B4200D-Oldy]

Well, here's an update if anyone is interested...
Looks like I am going to have to support the front loader somehow, and then disconnect the front loader uprights from the subframe (there are two clevis pins) — my goal is to not have to disconnect the hydraulics — and then disconnect the front and back mounts of the subframe so that I can lower it enough to remove the holder lift link assembly. Then I can have a local tractor shop press the bent rod and assembly straight and hope it will rotate. Fingers crossed.

 

[B4200D-Oldy]

I've been wrong (several times) before but looking at the parts diagram I don't believe there's anything that "rotates" in the tube. Looks like it's all one piece and the linkages rotate on the ends. There's only the one part number for it and no indication of a separate shaft running through it. Not sure if you could get enough leverage on it to bend it straight without taking it off the tractor.

As to getting it out - it appears to put the FU in FUN. Hopefully others here with more experience have an easier solution.

Thanks for your reply Bee-Positive! ... The parts diagram doesn't detail the way the linkage functions. Tabs on either end of the rod would need to rotate in order to raise the mower deck, because the main body of the holder is bolted to the subframe and transmission case. It's too bad that the linkage tabs are welded to the ends of the rod on both sides such that it is not removable (which is why it's a single part). If they were removable somehow, the rod could simply be pushed (or hammered) out of the holder tube and straightened. Kind of a design flaw. Sigh!

 

[B4200D-Oldy]

Looks like this tractor has quick disconnect couplers on the loader hydraulic lines which means minimal fluid leaks. So I'm going forward with removing the loader as directed in the manual — moving the brackets to their standing positions. Learning more each day. I did learn that removing the rear subframe mounting bolts allows the differential gear oil to dribble out. Need a gallon of UTTO or UDT universal oil on hand to top up.

 

[whitetiger]

Looks like this tractor has quick disconnect couplers on the loader hydraulic lines which means minimal fluid leaks. So I'm going forward with removing the loaders as directed in the manual — moving the bracers to their standing positions. Learning more each day. I did learn that removing the rear subframe mounting bolts allows the differential gear oil to dribble out. Need a gallon of UTTO or UDT universal oil on hand to top up.

Is the fluid leaking out of a bolt hole?

 

[B4200D-Oldy]

Hey Whitetiger, yes, the fluid is leaking out of the rear stay bolt holes. Regarding the holder lift link assembly, I got the bend straightened out, but the shaft which should rotate freely is stuck. Corroded or something. I tried soaking in penetrating oil for a few days, then working it in a vice, but can't get it to turn more than a 1/2". Thinking of grinding off the weld of one of the link tabs and maybe break it loose, so I can hammer the shaft through and remove it to clean, and then re-weld. Btw, I searched all over for a used part but couldn't find one. If anyone has a source for used parts, the part number is 76502-51192.

 

[B4200D-Oldy]

Update: I did grind off the weld of one of link tabs on the holder lift link. Removed the tab, and took it to a place with a hydraulic press. They couldn't press the shaft out of the tube. Really corroded. They're going to try heating the tube with a torch to expand it. TBD. ... Meanwhile, I found a used part on MBTractor.com which said it was in stock. I ordered it, but then they cancelled the order without any explanation and they haven't responded to emails or phone calls. Pretty frustrating! I'd say avoid them.