RJ Lift Handle

[71_Bronco 1,072]

So I was looking over my RJ-58 the other day. I am kinda a stickler for symmetry, I don't know why, but it really irks me when things aren't symmetrical.

I was looking at the lift handle, and was wondering if I can remove it all together. I will not be using the tractor for working, and do not need the lift for anything. I do not have the rear hitch, nor the lift cable, so right now the handle is just floating there.

The only downside I see to this, is that if I want to run an older bath-tub style W.H. cart, I will have no place to connect it. So I was thinking about making some kind of rigid quick-disconnect "tongue" for the trailer to connect to.

What do you guys think? I work in a machine shop, so making a spacer to put between the brake petal and frame is no issue. I will keep the handle, so that if I ever want to put it back on, I will have it.

Thanks

[grnlark 490]

It's easy enough to remove and isn't going to alter the tractor any. If you'd prefer it off then I say go crazy.

[Kelly 1,033]

I just sold a nice home made rear hitch that looked a lot like the newer tractors but was off a RJ, did not need a cable it had a tab that rode under the trans case to keep it level.

[MikesRJ 558]

I've seen several applications where the lift handle and associated cable are removed, and a chain is attached between the hitch lift are and a bracket installed on the side of the transmission case. It doesn't look too awfully bad when done correctly and painted to match. I'll see is I can locate a picture of what I am talking about and post it here when/if I do find one.

*** EDIT ***

Here's a picture of the chain attached to the slot hitch, I'll see if I can find one of the point on the transmission where you could mount it. The picture was on the old board, don't know to whom I should give credit for the image though.

[71_Bronco 1,072]

I've seen several applications where the lift handle and associated cable are removed, and a chain is attached between the hitch lift are and a bracket installed on the side of the transmission case. It doesn't look too awfully bad when done correctly and painted to match. I'll see is I can locate a picture of what I am talking about and post it here when/if I do find one.

*** EDIT ***

Here's a picture of the chain attached to the slot hitch, I'll see if I can find one of the point on the transmission where you could mount it. The picture was on the old board, don't know to whom I should give credit for the image though.

Very lever idea, who-ever came up with that.

I am going to pull the handle off and see what it looks like. If I like it, then off it stays. I am going to keep this in the back of my mind until I actually get a cart. As of right now, it is just the RJ, so I have no need as of yet for a hitch.

Thanks guys and keep the ideas coming!

[dlpaw 3]

What about a hitch off of a lawn ranger for pulling the cart? It may fit the RJ transmission, and mounts using the seat spring bolts.

Daniel

[71_Bronco 1,072]

What about a hitch off of a lawn ranger for pulling the cart? It may fit the RJ transmission, and mounts using the seat spring bolts.

Daniel

Just looked that item up that you suggested, looks like it would be the easiest thing to do and would work perfect.

Only issue that may come up would be if I decided to go with the tool box & fenders. Also would have to make sure the bolt spacing is the same, and it would be long enough to hang off the back without hitting the cast section of the trans case.

[dlpaw 3]

If you need measurements, let me know. I can measure the one on my son's tractor.

Daniel