lynch pin alternative

[RayIN]

One trick I've learned for lynch pins that are holding something like a hitch pin (like on a sprayer, fertilizer spreader, garden cart, etc.) is to install the pin from the bottom with the lynch pin on the top (upside down).

This keeps the lynch pin away from the grass and sticks passing below the machine, so they can't grab the pin and pull it out. Seems counterintuitive because if the lynch pin comes out, you lose the hitch pin, but the chance of the lynch pin coming out is almost zero.

Also, this kind of pin can be more secure/less likely to spring open:

https://www.tractorsupply.com/tsc/product/curt-1-4-in-safety-pin-(2-3-4-in-pin-length)-25080-2001216

I guess nothing is foolproof though...

I've purchased those hitch safety pins from several different suppliers, none are actually ¼"/.25"; they measure closer to .2".
IMO everyone must buy from the same China mfgr. Rural King sells them for $4 ea.; I buy a dozen off Amazon for $8.
Their actual purpose is trailer hitch safety pins.

 

[bigtiller]

I have good luck with a locking lynch pin. but they are a little pricey.