42" plow rod

[AndrewNoyes]

I bought a 42" plow for snow use, but it came without a rod. So I researched a bit, including here. Thanks! I was a bit unclear on the length, so I put the tractor on a 2x4 as suggested, and measured. When I bent up the rod, it didn't end up at the length I intended. But it still worked, just didn't lift the blade very high when not scraping. So I decided to implement an adjustable version. I think I may have gotten more ideas here, but I thought I'd post my results in case it helps someone else.

The rod is simply a chunk of 1/2" steel rod from Lowes. I heated and bent the ends. I bought an 8" long 3/8" black pipe nipple, and a full thread 1/2-13 x 5" long hex head screw. I cut the rod and welded the head of the screw to one cut end of the rod, and slipped the pipe over the other cut end, leaving about 5" "empty". I also welded a nut to the end of the pipe. A bunch of grinding and a bit of paint for cosmetics, and that was it!
I hope this helps someone!

[EricWww]

Good stuff. It definitely helps me out. Funny you mention this as I just posted in the implements forum about my 42" and of course I can't find the rod either. Although I might just get lazy and order one from Xtreme along with the high lift bracket.

[AndrewNoyes]

Glad to help. Hmmm, "high lift bracket"? Maybe I need to learn more about that! Anyone have a photo or info? Thanks for the idea, Eric.

[EricWww]

I def can't take credit for this idea haha. Anyway to see one, go here http://www.xtrememotorworks.com/Part...r%20Parts.html then look for part CC-96-015. I've found my snow thrower (and presumably plow) doesn't raise high enough for me to drive the tractor onto the trailer ramp. Hopefully this gives it the extra lift it needs. We'll see! Plan B would be long ramps to decrease the angles.

[SGragg]

Originally Posted by AndrewNoyes

...I bought an 8" long 3/8" black pipe nipple...and slipped the pipe over the other cut end...

Pardon me here, but did you mean to say 8" long 3/4" black pipe? I don't believe a 1/2" steel rod will fit inside a 3/8" black pipe.

[AndrewNoyes]

Thank you, that is very interesting! I may try one...

[AndrewNoyes]

I initially thought 1/2" pipe, but I looked up the spec, and 3/8" black iron pipe is .490 ID. I should have mentioned that I did have to run a half inch drill in, just to clean out the weld line inside the pipe from where it was made. But it didn't even cut all the way around. Good question though.

[mjsoldcub]

i just cut mine in half and thread both ends...have to have a .50" LH die though and then throw a closed body turnbuckle on it....nice job though

[J-Mech]

Be careful trying to lift the blower higher. You can damage the driveshaft.

[Berwil]

Originally Posted by J-Mech

Be careful trying to lift the blower higher. You can damage the driveshaft.

And depending on the tractor/thrower combo, the chute and hood may try to occupy the same space and time.