In case you’re considering acquiring a tractor, be it pre-owned or brand new, several factors need to be taken into account. Besides the cost and dimensions of the tractor, the intended use is equally vital. The tractor’s size and its usage will dictate the type of 3-point hitch to be employed.
Need tools for your project? Toolbox, a tool rental marketplace, might be worth a look.
So, do you know what a 3-point hitch is? It is the equipment that allows you to attach ploughs and other agricultural tools to a tractor. It doesn’t matter if the tractor is for industrial and farming purposes. The 3-point hitch is attached to the tractor directly.
Now that you are familiar with the 3-point hitch, let’s talk about the quick hitch.
Once you become more used to hitches, you will come to appreciate the quick hitch. A quick hitch is mounted on the 3 point hitch, and it allows you to attach rear tractor equipment quickly. You wouldn’t even need to get off your tractor seat before attaching and releasing equipment.
The 3-point hitch comes in 5 different sizes, numbered from 0 to 4. This article will help you differentiate the 5 categories, guide you to buy a suitable 3-point quick hitch, and recommend the best category 1 3-point quick hitches available.
Considerations Before Buying A 3-Point Quick Hitch
How do I know what category my tractor is?
There are majorly 2 ways to determine the category hitch that can work with your tractor:
- The type of equipment you want to attach to your tractor. Heavy-duty equipment requires a higher category hitch.
- Your tractor horsepower. For instance, a tractor with a horsepower of 180 HP or higher will use a category 4 hitch.
How to differentiate 3-point quick hitch categories?
We can divide 3-point quick hitches into 5 categories based on these following basic differences:
- The dimensions of the 3-point hitch triangle.
- The size of 3 connecting pins.
- The weight capacity of 3-point hitch.
| Category | Tractor power | Top link pin diameter | Lift arm pin diameter | Lower hitch spacing | Approx max weight |
| 0 | Up to 20 hp | 5/8’’ | 5/8’’ | 20’’ | 500 lbs |
| 1 | 20 to 45 hp | 3/4‘’ | 7/8’’ | 28’’ | 2000 lbs |
| 2 | 40 to 100 hp | 1’’ | 1 ⅛’’ | 34’’ | 5000 lbs |
| 3 | 80 to 225 hp | 1 ¼‘’ | 1 7/16’’ | 40’’ | 15,000 lbs |
| 3N | 80 to 225 hp | 1 ¼‘’ | 1 7/16’’ | 34’’ | 5000 lbs |
| 4 | More than 180 hp | 1 ¾’’ | 2’’ | 48’’ | 20,000 lbs |
| 4N | More than 180 hp | 1 ¾’’ | 2’’ | 40’’ | 20,000 lbs |
* The N is a subcategory of certain hitches and it stands for narrow. The difference between this N subcategory and their main category is the smaller pin sizes. The N subcategory is common with quick hitches, and they modify small implements to work with larger tractors.
Category 0
Category 0 hitch versions are light-duty, and they work well with 20 HP tractors or less. They are a great fit if you own a lawn or garden tractor. This hitch category only works with 20” wide implements.
The distance between the lower pins on this hitch category and the top link pin is usually 12”.
The implements you can use with a Category 0 3-point hitch are ploughs, tillers, cultivators, thatcher, back blades, etc.
Category 1
You can find category 1 hitches on compact or subcompact tractors. These tractors usually hover between a horsepower of 20 to 50 HP. The arm lift pole measures 7/8” with the top link pin measuring 3/4” in diameter. The distance between the lift arms of the hitch is 26” with a 15” mast height.
There are versions of category 1 hitch called limited category 1 hitches. These limited category 1 hitches are peculiar to the subcompact tractors and have similar dimensions to regular category 1 hitches.
Category 2
Category 2 hitches have more power than the earlier iterations as it is more heavy-duty. Only tractors with 40 to 125 HP can use this hitch. It has 32″ arm spacing, 1″ top link pins, and 1 1/8″ lift arm pins.
Liquid sprayers, planters, back blades, rakes, and box scrapers work with category 2 hitch.
Category 3
Category 3 hitches have a 1-¼“ top link pin, 1 7/16” lift arm pins, and an arm spacing of 38 inches. These dimensions make it great for heavy-duty equipment used by 80 to 225 HP tractors.
Also, the category 3 hitch has similar dimensions to the category 3N hitch. However, there is a lift spacing difference as 3N has a 32” lift spacing.
Category 4
You can mount category 4 hitches on a 180 HP or higher tractor. The hitch has lift arms with a 46” spacing, 2” lift arm pins, and 1 ¾ top link pins.
There is a similar 4N which shares pin diameters with category 4 but with a nearer 38” lift spacing.
Who Should Buy A Category 1 3-Point Quick Hitch?
You should buy a category 1 3-point hitch if you want to do medium-duty tractor farm work.
As such, you can attach up to 200 lbs category 1 blade and also your medium-duty tiller with your quick hitch.
Top 5 Best 3-Point Quick Hitches Category 1 Ever!
1. ECOTRIC 3 Point 2” Receiver Trailer Hitch Category 1: Best for Versatility
Review
When you are in the market for a quick hitch, do yourself a favour and get a versatile one. In essence, what you want is not rather than ECOTRIC 3 Point quick hitch that can work with both large and smaller tractors. The dimensions make this possible as it has 2” trailer receiver and unique 7/8” diameter lift pins.
Also, this quick hitch has an impressively made hook that combines well with the solid and durable triangle design. This means that the hitch is lightweight yet strong enough to do some heavy-duty lifting.
There is more on durability as the hitch steel is made from alloyed steel coated with powder for longevity. You can be sure of using this hitch for a longer period without fear of damage.
ECOTRIC 3 Point 2’’ Receiver Trailer quick hitch doesn’t sacrifice effective performance for versatility. With ease, you can change whatever implement you are carrying behind your tractor. It won’t rattle or wobble while in use.
Pros
- Highly versatile usage
- Made from high-quality powdered alloy steel
- Capable of heavy-duty lifting
Cons
- Doesn’t work with the John Deere IMatch quick hitch
- Require expert installation for a first-time buyer
Verdict
If you are looking to buy a quick hitch that can perform some heavy-duty functions, just stop. ECOTRIC 3 Point 2’’ Receiver Trailer Quick Hitch Adapter is what you need.
Interestingly, some users have used it with a John Deere 4110 compact tractor without issues. It also works well with the Mahindra 1626 HST and Kubota BX tractor.
ECOTRIC Category 1 3-Point Hitch Adapter
2. 7BLACKSMITH 3 Point 2” Receiver Trailer Hitch Category 1: Best Value for Money
Review
The 7BLACKSMITH 3 Point Hitch will be one of the most satisfying purchases you will ever make. You wonder why? This quick hitch is strong and durable with complete metal steel. However, this is one of the problems with this hitch. It isn’t made with powdered steel, which reduces rust. So, you have to take extra care to make sure the hitch doesn’t rust.
The adapter sits pretty much on the top as it has a 2” trailer receiver for ease of use. This makes changing implements easy as the hitch slides in and out of implements.
Furthermore, you can alternate this adapter with light-duty farm equipment or a trailer. It has lift pins with a 7/8″ diameter and a 26″ width when measuring from the endpin. It also has a 19″ height from the bottom to the top. All these translate to a quick hitch with light-duty functionality.
Pros
- You get value for money
- Strong and durable
- Has versatile uses
Cons
- Not for heavy-duty work
- You have to take extra precautions to prevent rust
Verdict
If you want to get a quick hitch for a small tractor while not spending much, 3 Point 2 Receiver Trailer Hitch is your best bet. Sure, you have to take extra care in maintenance, but the price is worth it.
Enjoy using this hitch with John Deere, LM25H WLM Tractor, NorTrac, Kioti, and Yanmar.
7BLACKSMITH Category 1 3-Point Hitch Adapter
3. Titan Attachments HD 2-in Receiver Hitch Adapter: Best for Multiple Categories
Review
Titan Attachments HD hitch adapter works for categories 1 and 3. So if you are thinking of changing your current tractor for a stronger one, you won’t need a new hitch. Its dual compatibility easily allows you to change implements without stressing yourself.
Sure, you can easily change implements, but what about stability? Fortunately, the 2″ hitch offers stability when working with trailers or even cargo carriers. Your security is always assured.
Since it can work with a category 3 3-point quick hitch, the heavy-duty capability of this adapter is not in doubt. The Titan Attachments HD hitch is made from high-quality alloy steel, 37 pounds weight, and has a sturdy triangular design. In addition, it has a superb D-Ring when combined with other features, making heavy-duty transport very easy.
Pros
- Not susceptible to rust as it has a powder coating
- Great for heavy-duty transport
- Can secure multiple hitches
Cons
- Can be costly but worth th
- Not so impressive a return or replace option
Verdict
If you are thinking of changing tractors to a more powerful kind soon, you should buy the Titan Attachments HD hitch adapter. It works for both category 1 and 3 3-point quick hitches.
Also, this adapter works well with cargo carriers. It is a perfect fit for John Deere quick hitch.
Titan Attachments 3-Point Hitch Adapter
4. Hikotor 3 Point 2 Inch Receiver Drawbar Hitch Adapter: Best Excellent Performance
Review
Hikotor Heavy Duty 3 point quick hitch has power due to its stainless steel, which provides enhanced strength and durability. Also, this sturdy triangular quick hitch has a black powder finishing. So, you will get longevity to go with its power.
Furthermore, with its 28” width and 19” height, you can easily mount this hitch to a trailer or tractor.
Some quick hitches usually lack stability when you mount them, but this quick hitch wouldn’t face such problems. This is because the hitch comes with a drawback adapter.
Pros
- Heavy-duty and high-quality materials
- Performs excellently
- A powdered finish means it won’t rust
Cons
- Needs expert installation
- Doesn’t fit the Kubota BX2380
- No update
Verdict
If you want to do heavy-duty work, you should buy the Hikotor Heavy Duty 3 point quick hitch as it is stable.
The product is great for John Deere, LM25H WLM Tractor, Nortac, Kioti, and Yanmar.
Hikotor 3 Point 2 Inch Receiver Drawbar Hitch Adapter
5. Titan Attachments Trailer Hitch 2” Receiver Quick Hitch: Best for Heavy-duty
Review
Unlike the triangular-shaped quick hitches we have mentioned so far on this list, Titan Attachments quick hitch is vaguely triangular. However, the hitch still boasts power with its high-quality alloy steel irrespective of the different shapes.
In addition to strength and durability, Titan Attachments Trailer Hitch will also last longer than most quick hitches with its powder finish. This means you can keep outside for extended periods without thinking of rust.
Plus, the quick hitch has a 2” receiver which makes it versatile enough to accept Class 3 style hitch. The versatility also comes with ease as the gooseneck ball makes towing an implement easier. Also, this hitch fits all category 1 tractors.
Pros
- Durable
- Longevity is assured
- Versatile gooseneck ball
Cons
- Doesn’t have a stabilization bar
- Doesn’t come with link pins
Verdict
The quick hitch is durable as it is made from a high-quality metal alloy with a powder-coated finish. Plus, this quick hitch fits all category 1 tractors.
Titan Attachments 3-Point Quick Hitch
Will Cat 1 Implements Fit Cat 2 Tractor?
Yes. Many category 1 equipment could be used for a category 2 tractor. You only need to do the following:
- Modify equipment by changing pins or utilizing bushings to achieve a suitable diameter. Bushings will allow your implements to be fixed quickly to the hitch pin for your ease of use.
- Replace your cat 1 hitch pins with cat 2 pins.
Since there would be a difference in top link hole diameter, you can easily rectify this. Drill the top link hole to fix cat 2 top link pin.
However, it would be better to use Cat 2 implements for Cat 2 tractors. The reason for this is that Cat 2 tractors have more HP. The higher HP means they can drag your implements on rougher terrain when it would be ideal not to do so. Driving across rougher terrains could get your Cat 1 implements destroyed.
How Does A 3-Point Quick Hitch Work?
A hitch has two lift arms coupled with a top link. So, this top link ensures stability when the hands are raised and lowered.
Now, the 3-point hitch works by using a tractor’s hydraulic system to control the hitch’s lift arms.
In addition, top links have holes that are linked with pins on the implement. This makes it easy to attach and remove implements quickly.
FAQs
How do you hook up a 3-point hitch to a tractor?
- Firstly, line the tractor’s rear to the mouthing point of the implement. Then place the tractor in the park.
- Bring the tractor’s hydraulic lift arms low to be on level height with the lower points of attachment on the implement.
- Slot the lower attachment point pin on the implement you want to join through the float ball on the tractor’s lift arms. Secure the implement with the lock hitch pin
- Use the hitch rod to attach a side of the adjustable drawbar to the implement top attachment point.
- Use the hitch rod to attach the other side of the adjustable drawbar to the tractor top hitch point. Next, secure the drawbar with the hitch pin for locking.
- Raise the implement from the ground using a tractor hydraulic lift.
How do I make my 3-point hitch lift higher?
Your tractor has multiple top link attachment points that you can put through the top link of the tractor side. When you do this, it changes the ability of the 3-point hitch to lift higher.
Recommendation
Choosing a hitch can be a hassle if you don’t have the proper information you need to make a choice. However, we believe with this post, you know the hitch category and the best kind of quick hitches to buy.
If you want to buy a hitch, we recommend that you get the ECOTRIC 3 Point 2″ Receiver Trailer Hitch Category 1. This hitch is durable, can perform some heavy-duty function, and last long.
