TO-30 3-point hitch--HELP!!

The problem is that the Fergusons have a "draft control"
hydraulic system. The control handle sets the pull
on the top link and the system works to keep the
pull at that constant value. The result is that the
handle sets the lifting force, not the height of
the arms. This is great if you are plowing but terrible
for a blade or bush hog. If you lift something heavy
like a bush hog, you can set the handle to hold a
height if you have a constant load hanging on the
top link. Light loads are pretty touchy. The added
problem is when the load increases, the lift lowers
in an attempt to lighten it. If the load lightens,
the lift raises to increase it - both just the
opposite of what you want. Remember, it is keeping
a constant "draft" for a mounted plow that pivots on the
lower arms. I have had years of practice and can do pretty well with my TO-20. An 8N Ford has selectable
height or draft control and if someone could fit it
in, I expect it would work. good luck.

David,

I too have a TO-30 with a grader blade, and know exactly what you're talking about.

There really isn't a way that I know of to make the hydraulics float; about the best I can do is have it slowly creeping up or slowly creeping down.

However, you can set how far down the lift travels with the use of limit chains. CT Farm sells these, or they're fairly easy to make if you've got a welder and are handy with metal fabrication.

Basically, limit chains connect to the top link attachment point on your tractor, and connect to the lower attachment point on the implement you're using -- bush hog, grader box, whatever. You adjust the chains to limit the lift's downward travel.

Do a search for "limit chains" on the N-Board at this web site, you'll find some very nicely drawn prints on how to make your own limit chain set. It isn't a perfect solution, since the grader box or blade can't "float" downward beyond the limits of the chains, but it beats spending all your time worrying where the lift is when you need to concentrate on driving!

Good luck!

Jim

I'd like to know more about this too if you get more information, David. That would sure make life easier!

Good luck!

jim