Golf Tractor, best conversion recommendation

golfguy · May 12, 2017

Hello, been reading a LOT recently here and trying to figure out best set up for following:

Got a JD 4066R and I want an aerator that has Cat. 2 pins standard, in the manual says Cat. 2 hitch required.

The tractor meets all the recommend specs well, and have seen it running on other brands with less Hp (even below the recommended) and no issues there.

BUT the other brands have Cat. 1 and 2 as hitch standard,

The JD is Cat. 1 only, the hitch type is how the balls can stay on the implement to make hitching easier (name?).

Tractor dealer says best option just to put Cat. 1 pins on implement (its 1065kg / 2345lb), slightly concerned about warranty if something went wrong with implement with this suggestion. Whats the weight rating for Cat. 1 pins generally, much risk of bending anything?

OR

He said can cut off the Cat 1 hitch and weld a Cat 2., this is far the least appealing to me.

Looking at so many ball attachments and getting lost with it, is there a ball that is Cat 1. that can fit a Cat 2. pin? There looks like would be space, even on the coupler for a slightly larger ball?

Holding a Cat. 1 ball up to the Cat 2. pin looks like is possible to drill the centre larger to fit the Cat 2. pin and still have enough material left for strength?

What would suggest is the best bet / safest / easiest way to proceed? I must have this implement one way or another...

M5farms · May 12, 2017

just put a quick hitch on the tractor and problem is solved

jeff9366 · May 12, 2017

CAT 1 / CAT 2 PIN SPECS: TractorData.com - Three-Point Hitch

"Holding a Cat. 1 ball up to the Cat 2. pin looks like is possible to drill the centre larger to fit the Cat 2. pin and still have enough material left for strength?" NO.
Category 1 Draw Pins are 7/8" diameter, Category 2 Draw Pins are 1-1/8" diameter. Big difference.

You need to post specific information on the aerator you are considering. Aerators come in a multitude of variations and weights.

Aerators which have cylinder form with spikes, designed to roll, are very low stress on the tractor. It should be sufficient to remove bolt-on Category 2 draw pins from the implement and replace with bolt-on Category 1 draw pins. The implement end of the Category 1 pins will have to be bushed/sleeved to achieve a tight fit. You may or may not have to shorten bushings to snug nuts on Category 1 draw pin threads.
VENDER: Search Results for bushings at Tractor Supply Co.
CountyLine Draw Pin, Cat 1, S7245TSC - For Life Out Here
Conversion will cost less than $25 for parts.

You will need to bush holes for Top Link pin as well.
HOWEVER NEED INFORMATION ON THE SPECIFIC AERATOR YOU ARE CONSIDERING.

What is the Three Point Hitch lift capacity of your Deere 4066R? More than 2,345 pounds?

Even if you cannot lift cylinder aerator, which may not be a big deal on fairways, pulling it should not be difficult.