3pt. hitch designations

[sleepyhollow]

Hi Folks,

Could someone explain the 3pt. hitch designations that you see batted around in tech specs and discussion threads? What is Category 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 etc?

Does it relate to the lift capacity or a class of implements that work with the hitch? Is there any connection between this and the rear PTO?

Thanks to whoever can clear up my confusion/ignorance.
-Jonathan

 

[Bird]

Jonathon, this is a frequently asked question. I never heard of a category 4, but for the others, look at <A target="_blank" HREF=http://www.tractorbynet.com/cgi-bin/compact/showthreaded.pl?Cat=&Board=buyjd&Number=23048&Search=true&Forum=All_Forums&Words=category%20three&Match=Entire%20Phrase&Searchpage=0&Limit=50&Old=allposts&Main=23026>this link</A>. It is not a lift capacity, but is related to the size of implement that can be used. Some larger tractors are equipped for both category I and II.

 

[LGinIA]

Found this info at http://www.tractorsmart.com/enter.htm

Hitch Top link Lower link Lift Arm Vertical
Category Pin Diameter Pin Diameter Spread Height
0 5/8" 5/8" 20"
1 3/4" 7/8" 26" 18"
2 1" 1-1/8" 32" 24"
3 1-1/4" 1-7/16" 38"

 

[sleepyhollow]

Thanks to Bird and LGinIA for helping me out. -
Jonathan