Non-Cub Cadet Front Blade

alsparl · #1 10-01-2014, 12:59 PM

Sometimes you don't know whether you are just in luck or a glutten for punishment. Such is the case with my search for a plow for my 782. I couldn't find one locally but came across this Murray plow at a garage sale. The gentleman told me he bought it new as a package in '79 with the tractor he is keeping (moving south). So for a "just take it" price, I am gonna see how this is gonna work.

It is an interesting unit as the Murray tractor accepts the 1/4" steel mounting bracket bolted to the front, then the entire blade assembly mounts to that bracket using (2) 5/16" sheer bolts. That doesn't seem like near enough to me, but oh well. The previous owner said when a shear bolt breaks, yes, the entire blade assembly gets all cattywompus. When both bolts break, the entire blade assembly falls off. The trip springs look very light as well compared to the Cub blades, which I expect. Very interesting technology Murray used, but also shows how much better built Cub items are. I am sure some of that was due to the different pricing platforms each company was at.

For my use, knowing I will not be able to use hyd lift option on the 782, it will be a hand lift unit. I have a spare, old mule drive bracket that I think I can remove the pullies and tentioner off of. Drill a couple holes to mate the plow itself, and "viola," I have a plow...in theory...yes I said that with A LOT of caution.

My first concern, I don't think (2) 5/16" bolts will be good enough for a gravel driveway. I generally try to leave at least 1/2" to an 1" of material to drive on, which melts very quickly when the sun hits it. Plus, I am not digging up or shoveling gravel instead of snow. With that being said, would you all recommend going up to a larger size bolt, say 1/2" for more strength ???

My second concern, would you recommend placing a steel plate in behind and front of the mule drive bracket before attaching the plow from front strength?

As mentioned above, price was right, not looking to make this a permanent fixture, just trying to get something in place until the correct thing is put in place. Any opinions or suggestions would be and are appreciated.

Aaron

Berwil · #2 10-01-2014, 01:38 PM

Well, if you believe this chart; 2 grade 2 bolts will fail at 7k lbs, grade 8 at double that. Just curious, how wide is the plow?

Bill

alsparl · #3 10-01-2014, 01:57 PM

The blade is 40" wide. The bolt holes are only 4" apart and the mounting face plate is only 6 1/2" wide, which leave a lot of torque, maybe pressure, to be applied to the outsides of the plow to cause damage.

Nitro · #4 10-01-2014, 05:49 PM

The force of the plow on my QL is taken by the under carriage, not the front of the frame, so keep that in mind when you go to modify the mule drive. It's only gonna be as strong as what holds it to the tractor.

alsparl · #5 10-02-2014, 03:16 PM

Nitro, I appreciate the caution as that is exactly in the forefront of my mind. That is why this will only be used for the small snows (up to 2" or so) and anything more will be cleaned up with the snow thrower. Besides, with the way my driveway sits between two houses, it has to be precisely placed, which the walk-behind does a great job of.

Thank you all once again.