Safehitch hits the mark

Many operators will have discovered, in backing up to an implement, that a lower link slides past the pin on the implement, requiring a repositioning of the tractor, getting off the tractor to reposition the link arm or -- inherently dangerous -- getting someone else to guide the link arms into position.

The Safehitch, designed to solve this problem, was designed by engineer Jim Cassidy and part-time farmer Pat McKenna. The unit comprises a zinc plated bar with an adjustable length that connects both lower links via a set of brackets. A graduated scale on the bar corresponds to the width of the lower link pins on an implement.

For initial setup the operator measures the range of implements to ascertain the lower link spacing, and records this with a number on the headstock, which will match a position on the Safehitch. 

In use the operator checks the number on the implement, sets the Safehitch to the same number, then backs up the tractor to hook up first time.

This saves time if frequent implement changes are made during a day, and improves safety: it protects the operator from risk of injury while trying to manhandle a machine into the correct position, and makes it unnecessary to enter the ‘crush zone’ between tractor and implement. And no need to rely on another person during hitching up.

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