3 point hitch adjustment

[BWSwede]

All,

I wasn't sure which category to post this question so I thought I would try here.

I am building a category II 3 point hitch for the back of my truck/tractor and am trying to decide if I want to go with fixed-width non-adjusting lift arms or the standard set up. This question I have (I am new to tractors) is regarding how tight the adjustment chains should be when the tractor is in use and pulling an implement. Should the chains be tight, in which no side to side movement of the implement would be permitted, or is it best to keep slack in the chains so that the implement and tractor have some play between them? If the chains are suppose to be tight then I think I will go with a fixed arm set up so I can use the hitch for other things beside a 3 point.

I hope my question makes sense, if not please let me know.

Thanks in advance,
Blane

 

[Slamfire]

They should be at least tight enough to keep the lower arms from contacting your tires, but not so tight as to restrict the lift height. Keep tryin' you'll find the right adjustment.

 

[JerryG]

I have always used about an inch of slack on each side unless I am using a Moldboard plow. Then, I just keep it off of the tires.

 

[BWSwede]

Thanks guys. I appreciate the input.

Best regards,
Blane

 

[Ford850]

Although some slack is usually allowed with most implements, I think you could have a solid 'no slack' set up with one exception. Moldboard plows require a left to right floating setup as Jerryg said.

 

[BWSwede]

Ford850 thanks for the reply.

Your thoughts are sort of what I was thinking, but I wasn't sure. I'll have to give that method of plowing more thought before I give it up and start fabricating a rigid hitch.

Thanks again,
Blane

 

[Farmwithjunk]

Plows, disc's, and subsoilers need to be able to float from side to side, or they control the tractor. Sorta like the tail wagging the dog. You wouldn't be able to make even the slightest course corrections with a rigid hitch. Even a corn planters and cultivators needs some freedom to move, or more accurately, the TRACTOR needs to be able to move side to side in front of them while making slight turns.

Implements like mowers, tillers, box blades, ect, work well with very limited movement side to side.

 

[BWSwede]

Farmwj,

It sounds like an attachment in the ground without the ability to move side to side is like a ship with a rudder unable to swing.

Thanks for chiming in.

BWSwede

 

[Farmwithjunk]

Farmwj,

It sounds like an attachment in the ground without the ability to move side to side is like a ship with a rudder unable to swing.

Thanks for chiming in.

BWSwede

That's a good description.

 

[MtnViewRanch]

I have a question regarding plowing implements and the 3 point hitches that have the sliding adjustable links that have no slop. Either they are set at a point and are rigid or not set at all leaving the arms to swing and hit the tires. If what you guys are saying is true, then all of the tractors that have this type of 3ph are no good for plowing?