This seems like a great idea. Wonder why JD didn't design it this way in the first place - is there any downside?
As promised, Modification to Loader to leave PTO Brkt on while switching snowblower
Those that have a loader and front mounted snowblower know how hard it is the remove the PTO bracket and shaft when you want to switch between the two attachments. So I came up with an idea that would make the switch much easier. I used my past experience as a autobody and frame repairman so I could moved the loader support arm outward so I could leave clearance for the PTO bracket and shaft while I make a quick switch to snow blower.
You will see the placement of the wooden blocks (4X4's 9" long) that have to be made so you will not bend the long run of pipe to the loader bracket. While you move the bucket forward with the chains attached to the bottom of the loader support arm, the force move the bracket forward while bending the pipe at the location of the blocks. Afterwards everything looks like new yet, there is no distortion of the piping or chipping the paint. If you want to protect the paint then place cardboard between the angle iron and loader and also where the chains are wrapped with old shirts.
The final location of the piping will be 3 1/4" from the face of the frame to the outer edge of the pipe, this will give you a 1/4" clearance past the PTO shaft as you lower the arm down to remove the bucket. Pictures show the setup of the pull, the final pull and then clearance from the PTO bracket and arm as it swings down.
The works awesome, I can now switch between the two attachments without any hassle.
Hope you find this helpful.
You will see the placement of the wooden blocks (4X4's 9" long) that have to be made so you will not bend the long run of pipe to the loader bracket. While you move the bucket forward with the chains attached to the bottom of the loader support arm, the force move the bracket forward while bending the pipe at the location of the blocks. Afterwards everything looks like new yet, there is no distortion of the piping or chipping the paint. If you want to protect the paint then place cardboard between the angle iron and loader and also where the chains are wrapped with old shirts.
The final location of the piping will be 3 1/4" from the face of the frame to the outer edge of the pipe, this will give you a 1/4" clearance past the PTO shaft as you lower the arm down to remove the bucket. Pictures show the setup of the pull, the final pull and then clearance from the PTO bracket and arm as it swings down.
The works awesome, I can now switch between the two attachments without any hassle.
Hope you find this helpful.
