Adjusting the Tractor Top Link to Pull a Brush Hog

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of adjusting the tractor top link when hooking up a three-point mounted rotary cutter, commonly known as a brush hog. Properly adjusting the top link enhances the performance and safety of your equipment, especially when working with implements that interact with the ground.

Step 1: Gather Necessary Materials

Before starting, ensure you have the following:

• Owner’s manual for your rotary cutter
• Tractor with a three-point hitch
• Measuring tape or ruler

Step 2: Understand Top Link Importance

Recognize that while the top link is essential for specific implements (like plows or box blades), it is less critical for rotary cutters. The cutter's height is mainly set by the lower link arms and tail wheels.

Step 3: Check Owner’s Manual

Refer to your rotary cutter’s owner's manual for specific recommendations on:

• Blade height above skid plates
• Required top link adjustments

For example, if the manual states that blades should be 1 inch above the skid plates, and you want to mow at 4.5 inches, then:

• Set skid plates to 3.5 inches off the ground.

Step 4: Adjust the Top Link

1. Position the Tractor: Ensure the tractor is on level ground.
2. Raise the Lower Link Arms: Use the tractor controls to lift the lower link arms to the desired height.
3. Adjust the Top Link:
   • Tighten the top link until it just begins to "catch" at the height you've set.
   • This engagement is important, especially when navigating uneven terrain, as it prevents the PTO shaft from binding.

Step 5: Test the Adjustment

• Once adjusted, hook up the brush hog and take it for a test run in the field.
• Observe how the top link behaves as the terrain changes. It should allow the rear wheels to follow the ground contours while preventing excessive movement that could stress the PTO shaft.

Step 6: Future Adjustments

• Be prepared to make additional adjustments based on field conditions and performance.
• You may want to revisit the owner's manual for more specific guidance on setting tail wheels for optimal height and rake.

Conclusion

Adjusting the top link for your rotary cutter is a straightforward process that can significantly impact your mowing efficiency and equipment longevity. Always refer to the owner’s manual and test your adjustments in the field to ensure optimal performance. For more detailed setups, consider checking back for future videos that will cover additional adjustments, such as setting tail wheels.