Understanding 3-point hitch categories
When purchasing a tractor, consider the size, condition, and price, as well as the types of jobs you expect it to perform. For most jobs, you’ll need a loader or a 3-point hitch, as well as some implements.
What are the 3-point hitch categories?
The lift arm pin diameter, which ranges from 5/8 in (16 mm) to 2 in (51 mm), is the easiest way to differentiate the 3-point hitch categories, which tell you what size implements can be used with a specific tractor.
Limited Category 1 3-Point Hitch
Some John Deere tractors have a “limited category 1” hitch, which means the hitch may not lift as high or open as wide as a standard category 1 hitch. Some implements, such as the Frontier BB20L Box Blade and RB20L Rear Blade, are designed specifically to work with limited category 1 hitches.
Quick Hitches
If you’re interested in trying a quick hitch, feel free to contact us or stop by one of our stores. John Deere’s iMatch Quick Hitch fits category 1 and limited category 1 3-point hitches.
What is the difference between Category 1 and 2 tractors?
Long days can seem even longer when you aren’t comfortable. Category 1 Hitch For tractors with 20 to 50 horsepower. Category 2 Hitch For tractors with 50 to 90 horsepower.
What is a Category 3 tractor?
Category 3 tractors have top link pins that measure 1-1/4u2032u2032 and lift arm pins that measure 1=7/16u2032u2032, with lift arm spacing of about 38u2032u2032. Category 3 tractors are beyond what most homesteaders will have, but if you do, be aware of the differences between the cat.
Which is bigger category 1 or 2?
If you have to swap pins frequently, an impact wrench comes in handy; those pins need to be torqued down tight so they don’t come loose. If the equipment has clevis type mounts where a pin goes through two tabs, those frequently have both Cat 1 and Cat 2 spacing.
What is a Category 1 quick hitch?
Designed to meet the ASAE Category 1 Standard S278 for easy attachment and dismounting of 3-point implements and equipment. Heavy duty, yet lighter weight than some others to allow for maximum lift capacity of your tractors three-point hitch.
What is tractor drawbar?
A solid coupling that connects a tractor and an implement to haul heavy loads. This tractor drawbar is a swinging drawbar that gives loads more flexibility when driving through turns and is a safe device to use when hauling large loads.
How much can a 3 point hitch lift?
Horizontal sway chain stabilizers regulate side-to-side sway of 3-point-hitch-mounted equipment, with a lift capacity of 1356 pounds (615 kg) measured at 24 in. behind the hitch balls.
What’s a drawbar used for?
A drawbar is a solid coupling between a hauling vehicle and its hauled load that is commonly used with rail transport, large and small road trailers, industrial and recreational trailers, and agricultural equipment.
What is a 3-point quick hitch?
This category 1 tractor hitch’s lift arm spacing is 27-1/4 in., and the distance between the lift arms and the top link is adjustable from 15 in. to 18-1/4 in.
What is a hydraulic top link?
This hydraulic top link is a useful agricultural tool that connects to 3-point equipment and is constructed to perform for excellent longevity. It is a category 1 cylinder, compatible with a horsepower range of 25 to 55, and can operate at 3,000 PSI.
What is the difference between Cat 1 and Cat 2?
Tractors with a horsepower on the border between categories can have either hitch, depending on the manufacturer’s design. Category 1 is standard on tractors with 20 to 45 horsepower, category 2 on tractors up to about 90 horsepower, and category 3 on tractors over 90 horsepower. Tractors with a horsepower on the border between categories can have either hitch, depending on the manufacturer’s design.
Are 3 point hitches Universal?
As patents on the technology expired in the 1960s, tractor and implement manufacturers agreed on the three-point hitch as the single, interchangeable, full-featured system for hitching implements to tractors.
What is quick hitch compatible?
COMPATIBLE WITH A QUICK HITCH: This adapter is designed to fit a Category 1 3 Point hitch with a quick hitch, allowing you to quickly connect your tractor to your 3 Point implements, saving you time and effort.