How tough is the draw bar setup?

[Banjo 0]

300 series for example, I am a bit concerned about hooking up a trailer using this setup

http://cgi.ebay.com/WHEEL-HORSE-TORO-LAWN-...1QQcmdZViewItem

which BTW looks really cool, but the thing about our factory draw bars is when you have a lot of tongue weight like the above custom tow hitch leads to, I am always concerned about that metal tab PUSHING UP under the transaxle and breaking the transaxle.

I probably worry too much. Any thoughts or experience here?

[BPjunk 184]

The load is actully on the cross shaft.

I have seen many of the toungs bent but never had on push through the bottom of the transmission case.

Bill in Richmond, Va.

[WheelHorse_of_course 99]

BP,

so you have seen them bent? <_<

Any idea how they got that way?

I am in the market for one to mount a receiver hitch to and will be using that to mount a lifting arm, so I am curious.

Cheers

[kpinnc 14,652]

I've seen the bottom broken out of an 8 speed because someone put too much on it. Chances are, the PO dropped a heavy load on it.

I welded a small piece (just a couple inches wide) of 1/8 plate to the top of the "tongue" on the drawbar, where it rides up against the bottom of the tranny case. It helps spread the weight out over a larger area under the case.

Even so, I would say you're unlikely to break the bottom of the case. Just don't drop anything down on it. Cast iron is very strong, but will shatter if you strike it hard with another object.

Kevin

[Kelly 1,033]

I have one bent down and touches the ground, not sure how??? but the trans is good. I've done what Kevin said too, on one that has a 200lb weight bar hooked to it, to spread the load out.