Attach and Remove a 3-point Linkage

Implement
By Asst Editor Damian M, on July 7th, 2011
Introduction
Many implements used on a farm are attached to a 3-point linkage mechanism at the rear of the
tractor. Here you will learn how to attach an implement in the correct sequence to make the job
simple.
Telescopic draft links
If the tractor has telescoping or quick coupling draft links, use them. This is your best option.
Use your operators manual for details of hitching and ignore methods 1, 2 and 3.
Quick coupler attachments
The quick coupler is additional equipment that can be used to hook and unhook implements
quickly; for example, change bins in the paddock or change between various 3-point linkage
equipment. It is an A-frame with three hooks and is actually a linkage system attached to a 3-
point linkage. All your implements must be of the same dimension in the headstock for this to
work.

The important dimensional differences of these hitch standards are shown in the table
below:
These standards do not completely limit the type or size of implements used on different tractors.
With minor modifications, Category 1 implements can be mounted on a Category 2 tractor
linkage and Category 2 implements can be mounted on Category 3 tractor linkage.
The minor alterations may include:
Installing bushes or sleeves to the top and bottom linkage pins.
Reversing the lower draft links.
Replacing linkage hitch balls.
Notes on Three-point linkage
The 3-point linkage comprises these main parts:
Draft links - the lower links to which the implement is attached. These are the links through
which the tractor pulls the implement.
Lift links - links that raise or lower the draft links.
Lift arms connect the lift links to the rockshaft.
Rockshaft - raises or lowers the lift links.
Top link - is the third connection point for the 3-point link and resists the roll-over force of the
implement.

A 3-point linkage implement hitched and ready to go.
Three-point hitch standards
Tractor and implement manufacturers have standardised the hitch dimensions. Three common
categories are:
Category 1: for tractors with 5 to 34 kW drawbar power.
Category 2: for tractors with 30 to 75 kW drawbar power.
Category 3: for tractors with 60 kW or more drawbar power.
Note: There are other categories for larger and smaller tractors.
Note: 1 Horsepower = 0.746 kW.

In the following sections you will learn how to attach and remove a 3-point linkage implement
when the tractor does not have telescopic or quick coupling hook type extending draft links. To
hitch the implement you must first:
Choose the site. If possible, choose level ground.
Check the drawbar of the tractor to ensure it will not interfere with the lower draft links
or the implement frame when it is raised or lowered. It may be necessary to remove the
tractor drawbar.
Decide on a hitching method. There are three hitching methods and your choice depends
on the design of the 3-point linkage implement and the evenness of the ground surface.
.
Size categories


Rear three-point hitch of a Case IH tractor with implement attached by the drawbar
There are five different hitch sizes, called categories. The higher category hitches have sturdier
lift arms and larger connector pins.
[1]

Category Tractor HP Top Link Pin Diameter Lift Arm Pin Diameter
0 Up to 20
5

8
in
5

8
in
1 20 to 45
3

4
in
7

8
in
2 40 to 100 1 in 1 in
3 80 to 225 1 in 1
7

16
in
4 180 to 400 and up 1
3

4
in 2 in