I-match quick connect vs Pat's easy change

[mscheer772]

I-match quick connect vs Pat\'s easy change

I own a John Deere 4310 e-power reverser with a box blade and a rear rotary mower LX5. Which quick connect system do people recommend?

 

[anojones]

Re: I-match quick connect vs Pat\'s easy change

I have a Speeco (under a different brand) which is similar to the JD model but a bit more versitile as the top link hook can change positions. I like it, it works well and fits all my implements (except my PHD). I still end up having to get off the tractor to fine tune it and make sure it's attatched correctly. Some folks don't see the point of a quick hitch if they have to get off the tractor - getting off the tractor doesn't bother me, it's the manhandling of the implements that bothers me and the quick hitch takes care of that problem. If I were to do it again- I would look at Pat's for maximum flexibility- you still have to hook up the top link, but that's usually quite easy. If you go with an I-match or Speeco type- make sure all your implements will fit (the LX5 should) and that when you buy future implements they fit as well.

 

[texasjohn]

Re: I-match quick connect vs Pat\'s easy change

I recommend Pat's. It works for me. It comes in Cat 1 and 2 sizes... see his web site... be sure and get the one you need now and in future.

 

[3RRL]

Re: I-match quick connect vs Pat\'s easy change

Yeah, I recommend Pat's also. It's been a real worksaver for me and very versatile for all my implements, including my backhoe. I don't have experience with Speeco or other brands but I would not switch now.

 

[beenthere]

Re: I-match quick connect vs Pat\'s easy change

Welcome to the forum.
With no more information than what you have provided, I won't suggest the iMatch (becomming generic with quick hitch) type, as I don't know how 'easy' you want hooking up 3pt attachments to be. The easiest, IMO, is to standardize the attachments so just backing up to them square, with the hooks aligned, and lifting the 3pt, leaving only to throw the locks down (all while still in the seat) is the way I went. If the equipment is dropped off on a flat area, then it can't be any quicker. Dropping them off is a "don't leave the seat" deal as well, if you can reach the levers to unlock the lower pins.

If a one-time jump off the seat to attach the top link, or adjust the top link hook is agreeable to you, then Pat's system should work great and they are a sponsor of the Forum and give a special offer to TBN members. A 'one-time' jump off the tractor to drop off an attachment is probably necessary with Pat's as well. Don't have one so can't say for sure. /forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif

You decide. I can't decide for you. I decided for me. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

 

[BloomingtonMike]

Re: I-match quick connect vs Pat\'s easy change

Do you have a frontier BB that works with Imatch? If so they work great. I recently started using mine with a Frontier tiller and still have to get off teh 3320 to connect the PTO but I LOVE my Imatch. In fact I am inishing a Landscape conversion to Imatch (would not have to do with Pats) but once it is complete it will connect right up without leaving the tractor. I guess I am installing a front stand (leg if you will like my rear blade has) so I do get off to remove/flip-up the stand.

 

[KiotiJohn]

Re: I-match quick connect vs Pat\'s easy change

I went with Pat's and am very happy to have the system. I do have to get off and change the hitch arm width at times because not all my implements have the same spacing, espcially my landscape rake and boom pole. I put the top link on also after hooking up the pins, but it's sure better than doing it without the EZchange.

I didn't choose to use other hitches because of the spacing problems that can happen on different make implements, and also didn't want to buy the one where it's necessary to buy a adaptor for each implement, too costly.

Pat's is a great buy and does work, eventually, with anything I have.
John

 

[Hard]

Re: I-match quick connect vs Pat\'s easy change

I use the Speeco quick hitch I bought at TSC for $196 in March. It hooks up easily with my Woods rake, Woods rear blade and King Kutter carry all. The top hook on the quick hitch is adjustable up and down. The only time I have to move it is for the carry all.

You have to make sure your implements are quick hitch compatable. I had a King Kutter 6' rear blade and a King Kutter 4' box blade and a Leinbach 5' rear blade that would not fit the quick hitch so I sold them all. I was tired of breaking my back to hook them up...especially the box blade. Any implement I buy from now on must fit the quick hitch, makes life a little easier.

 

[GaryM]

Re: I-match quick connect vs Pat\'s easy change

I have Pat's system and love it. I only have five implements, two with PTOs, and think the Pat's is a good deal for the money. On two of my implements I need to adjust my draft arm spacing, and from my limited experience that means that either three, or two, of my implements might not work with a quick hitch. Also my tractor is a small one, so the light weight of the Pat's system vs. the heavier quick hitch is an advantage.

I don't own a PHD but do borrow one on occasion and I don't think they are compatable with any quick hitch.