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Tractor Hook-ups
(three-point hitch, hydraulics, power take off (PTO), drawbar)

While not actually implements, tractor hook ups are the all-important connections between the implement and the tractor.

Points A and C make up the three-point hitch. This is the connection used for three-point-mounted implements – implements that hang behind the tractor. These implements usually do not have wheels, and the depth is set by adjusting the height of the arms on the tractor. Point A is the top link or third arm. It is used to level the implement from front to back. It is essentially a large turnbuckle. Sometimes, a special hydraulic cylinder is used for the top link. Points C are the lift or side arms. They, as the name implies, lift the implement. They may also have a turnbuckle for leveling the implement from side to side. Notice the "eyes" or balls at the ends of A and C. These fit over pins on the implement. The eyes and pins come in different sizes for different size tractors and implements and are listed as Category O, I, II or III, with O being smallest and III biggest. Not every tractor has a three-point hitch. This tractor has a Category II hitch.

Points B are the hydraulic connections (remotes, stacks or selective control valves). These are typically used to run hydraulic cylinders, which raise and lower pull-type implements. They can also run orbital motors or be routed to run a loader on the front of the tractor. They are configured differently for each brand, but universal adaptors can be added. Tractors come with various numbers of hydraulics, from zero to four. In this picture, there are three.

Point D is the power take off, or PTO. The PTO is a shaft that provides power to the implement. Care should always be taken around PTO shafts, and they should always be operated with the proper shields in place, because clothing and other loose items can catch on them and cause personal injury. The revolutions per minute (RPM) on a PTO shaft are determined by the engine RPM. Typically an engine RPM of 2600 will turn the PTO at 540 or 1000 RPM, depending on the model. This tractor is equipped for 540.

Point E is the drawbar. This is the connection used for pull-type implements. Pull type implements typically have wheels and tires they ride on while being pulled by the tractor. Pull type implements are raised and lowered by hydraulics. The drawbar extends under the belly of the tractor, where it is attached. This makes it low to the tractor’s center of gravity and is the safest place to pull from since it reduces the risk of a tractor rollover.

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