QA-42A questions
 

Figured I'd start a new thread since the question asked in the topic of my other one was already answered and I didn't want to stray way off topic. I'm sure I'll probably have other questions so left the topic kinda vague.

Anyway, as I said in my other post, I just got a QA-42A for my 147. It was set up for a wide frame tractor when I got it so I had to set it up for my narrow frame. That went smoothly, but now I have an issue with the upper links not clearing the sides of the front of the tractor (see attached image.) The links are angled inward when installed. I also understand that these are the v shaped links that are actually for a QA-42B but have also read that that shouldn't be an issue. I'm thinking the mounting pins should be longer to accommodate a spacer but want to make sure I'm not missing something before taking everything apart again and trying to replace them.

Thanks again in advance!

Adam.

I found this image online. Is this how it should be?

YES, the "curved" upper links on the QA-42B are/were designed specifically for the Cub Cadet 82 Series Tractors.

I would recommend, getting the correct upper links for your application.

In the Implement Technical Library Section, there is a link to the QA-XX-A Owners Manual. See Link: Owners Manual.

There are fellows that would swap you, or you could easily make them out of flat stock

Thanks for the replies. I do have the manual but its pretty vague on what is involved in switching from wide frame to narrow.

I can make straight upper links if necessary, but I'm not sure how that would help with the clearance issue with the side of the tractor's front end (circled in blue.) There is only about 1/16" with the lift lowered.

make new bars and put about 1/4" offset in them on tractor end

I also have a 147 that I use with a QA42B that I converted into a QA42A. I actually left the the curved links on mine and they just barely clear the cast grill. They do actually scrape it sometimes if it is leaning on the side of a hill but nothing that prevents me from lifting it or binds it up. So I’m not entirely sure the reason they are interfering so bad on your’s. However, I would do what has been previously recommended and fabricate your own links out of flat bar and put a bend in them at the end to offset them around the grill.

I think that this is what I'm going to do. Can someone verify the correct hole spacing for the straight links? I read 11 1/4" on here somewhere but that seems way too short, unless its 11 1/4" from the center of the link to center of the hole. Does 22 1/2" hole center to hole center sound right? Also, is there any real need for the slot in the links?

Thanks again!

Adam

The slot is there to assist in holding the blower upright when it is unhooked and being stored or installed. When looking at the tractor from the right side (passenger side), you remove the link from the pin on the quick attach end and pivot it down and slide it onto the stud welded on the bottom link. It should have a nut with a piece of flat bar welded to it to hold it on. It just basically steadies the whole unit so it doesn’t flop down and bind up the pto shaft.

This is what I am trying to explain to hold it in place.