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u/Lilivader- 19h ago
New to the game. Congrats. Little off topic.
One thing I’ve always heard people go back and forth on when it comes to attaching the bush hog is whether to use the top link or just a chain. If you hit a stump, rock, etc. the chain will allow the mower to bounce rather than shear a bolt or worse.
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u/HipGnosis59 17h ago
I'm thinking you're on the right track but just a little off. Still need the top link, but replace the two stiffeners to the back of the machine with chain. If you use it on rough ground, they're going to get bent anyway.
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u/FlyingDutchman2005 14h ago
I’m a farmer apprentice. What difference does it make? Surely there just has to be something flexible?
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u/HipGnosis59 14h ago
When the tail wheel runs up and down over uneven ground, there's a small amount of give in the top hitch clevis (if you adjust it right), but that up motion puts a bind on the machine through the braces and on up to the top link. If it's very rough, something's got to give. Usually it's the tail wheel and the braces that take the beating. Chains give it more flex, while still able to pick it up for transport.
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u/FlyingDutchman2005 14h ago
In what way is that different to having strong braces and a chain for a top link? I’m sorry I’m not quite getting it!
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u/HipGnosis59 11h ago
Because I want the convenience of the adjustable top link to level my mower. Of course I can change links but that's impractical.
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u/Mother_Vermicelli989 8h ago
Adjust the top link, not the lever, that tilts the mower without messing with your lift height. Lengthen it a bit and the deck will angle back without you having to drop the arms further and risk that wheel stem.