Thanks, Mike. It sounds like it operates similar to the constant draft control. I have struggled with the lack of live hydraulics and PTO on my 8N for some 40 years. We finally got a Nor Trac with live PTO and full hydraulics. Much more convenient although it doesn't have the maneuverability of the 8N.
I had toyed with the idea of tapping into the hydraulic system on the 8N to operate a hydraulic top link, the purpose to make a small dump bucket, but never followed through. I also worked on a design to make a trip mechanism for the top link. The mechanism would be reset by lowering the arms.