I match vs optional adjust links

   / I match vs optional adjust links #1  

SCDolphin

Gold Member
Joined
Dec 1, 2003
Messages
457
Location
Columbia, SC
Tractor
Kubota L5240: Craftsman GT6500
If I go JD I will be starting from scratch..... would I be better off going with I match or get the $300 jd optional adjustable links.
 
   / I match vs optional adjust links #2  
I'd say go with iMatch.
 
   / I match vs optional adjust links #3  
iMatch is da bomb - as long as all of your attachments are to the ASE spec. If not, fun times with a cutting torch and welder will ensue.

-Norm
 
   / I match vs optional adjust links #4  
I think the key to quick connect/deconnect is the ability to move the attachment. Helps greatly to have them on a hard floor, not the ground, and on castors if they're too heavy to scoot around. Even with quick connect stuff, you gotta be RIGHT THERE with the arms in the exact position or be able to move the implement easily. Only thing the quick connect saves is loosening and tightening the turnbuckles, adjusting the level and connecting the top link, not too much trouble once you get used to it. Getting at the PTO with a quick connect becomes more of a problem.
 
   / I match vs optional adjust links #5  
Is there any reason the I-Match frame is incompatible with the adjustable links? That way you have the best of both worlds - I-Match where it works and you have a good fall back for any other implement.

I have the adj. links and I think that they are worth every penny - except ask your dealer about the cost when ordering your tractor versus just getting them later. Several folks have posted here that the cost is the same - the difference is that if you order them later (i.e. seperately) - you also get to keep the regular draft links as emergency backup in case you break something.
 
   / I match vs optional adjust links #6  
If starting from scratch go with the IMatch.
I added adjustable links to my 4710 after I purchased it. I had attachments that I knew were not IMatch compatable. It was still a pain to hook things up. I ended up buying the IMatch & converted my attachments to fit. The IMatch works alot better.
I still have the adjustable links if anyone is interested. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif
 
   / I match vs optional adjust links #7  
I really recommended going with both. If I had to choose one, I would go with adjustable links. The imatch is way slick and I use it alot but the reality is many attachments don't fit.

Ones that work:
MX-6
box blade
disc are fine

Ones that don't use imatch:
post hole digger
3 pt sprayer
Trailer mover (going to make imatch compatible).

Having both is the way I would do it again - for sure.

One other issue you might run into is CAT 1 vs. Cat 2. I ordered a CAT 2 imatch for my 5525, it would not work with any of my existing attachments. So, I returned it and I am very glad my 5525 has adjustable links on it.

D.
 

Tractor & Equipment Auctions

Dixie Chopper LT2000 50in. Zero-Turn Lawn Mower (A53117)
Dixie Chopper...
Year: 2017 Make: Ford Model: F-250 Vehicle Type: Pickup Truck Mileage: 69158 Plate: Body Type: 2 (A53422)
Year: 2017 Make...
FAKE (A52472)
FAKE (A52472)
Brown 3pt 6' Disc Harrow (A50123)
Brown 3pt 6' Disc...
2023 PETERBILT 389 TANDEM AXLE SLEEPER (A53426)
2023 PETERBILT 389...
2017 NISSAN NV200 VAN (A51406)
2017 NISSAN NV200...
 
Top