Quick Change System Recommendations?

[HobbleCreek]

After taking half an hour last night to get my rear blade detached, I'm thinking hard about a quick attach system of some kind and looking for recommendations.

I'm not keen on extending the length of the draft links any more than necessary, but I would like a system that will work with as many implements as possible at the most reasonable price. My tractor is a JD 4720, so the Deere iMatch is one possibility. Other options include Pat's system that is advertised here on TBN. What are your collective thoughts about these and other systems?

Thanks,

Grant

 

[5103Owner]

I own the Imatch hitch it's great makes switching attachments
soooo much easier. /forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif Pat's system will probably fit more
attachments, because you can adjust the width. But then you
still have to attach the top link, both my blade and mower
(the only 3pt implements I have right now) measure the
same distance between the two lower pins so I chose Imatch.
But if you have implements that different width pins Pat's
system would be better. /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif

 

[kennyd]

I vote for the I-Match /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

 

[rambler]

My understanding is the 'I-Mach' is just John Deere's name for a Quick Hitch, of which there are many different makes, for probably less $$$$? I'd at least shop around a bit....

They work slick, except for 2 problems: 3pt equipment that has different widths between the lower pins. Not so often, but it does crop up. You won't be able to use any cat 2 stuff with your quick hitch for sure....

Other problem is the top link - many implements are at a different hieght for the top link pin, or there is bracing or other stuff in the way of getting the hook into the top link.

If any of your implements are of an odd dimention, then you need to have them modified - with torch & welder - or trade for something standard - to make them work with the quick hitch.

That is where Pat's is better - it will conform to irregular implements. Plus is cheaper to start with, and wieghs less so doesn't cut into your lift ###.

If all your implements are identical & fit, the quick hitch is a wee bit easier to hook things up on.

--->Paul

 

[jmc]

If you just got the tractor, you might hold off on the quick attach system until you get a little more practice changing implements. It should only take several minutes to drop an implement, especially if your lower links have the new telescoping ends.

 

[HobbleCreek]

I appreciate that thought. It's worth me asking for tips on removing implements. The trouble I was having the other night was removing my rear blade. I couldn't get the bottom links to free up so I could remove the pins. I was finally able to get the pins out, but it took a lot of lifting the very heavy rear blade and pulling/wiggling the pins out. It might have been a more pleasant chore had I remembered by gloves!

Any tips on getting those pins to come free would be greatly appreciated.

 

[jmc]

Sounds like you did it the hard way. The trick is to get the weight and tension off the 3 pins. Without seeing your setup, I'd guess:

Set the blade on the ground just enough to get the weight off the top link so you can remove that pin.

Continue to lower the front of the implement onto a support or put the front clear down on the ground. Adjust the side link crank to remove the weight from that lower link and remove that pin.

Raise or lower the 3 PH to get the implement weight off the last lower pin. Also, don't adjust the 3 PH too far lower than necessary because then you will have the weight of the 3 PH on your pin.

As you take the weight off each pins, watch the pin closely to see it "relax" as it becomes unloaded.

You may have to tweek the forward/backward tractor position to unload the pins horizontally as well. Releasing the telescoping mechanisms, if your lower links have them, will do this too.

After thinking about this, the next time I mount an implement, I'm going to try putting a light coating of grease on the pins. Still, it really doesn't take long to make the adjustments.

John

 

[andrewj]

I have a new I match i am trying to sell - would this be an appropriate time to discuss it?

 

[DirtRodder]

I purchased a Speaco and think its right up there with sliced bread. I would never go back to the old ways. The Speaco has an adjustable upper mount which may be of value to some, all in all it’s a great piece of equipment.

 

[Newblue]

Anybody around central Indiana want a free set of bushings for the speeco QH? I changed to Pats system and have no need for the implement bushings. Just PM me if interested.

Mike