What are the categories for 3-point hitch?
William Burgess
Updated on March 13, 2026
What are the categories for 3-point hitch?
What are the 3-point hitch categories?
| Category | Tractor Power | Lift arm pin diameter |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 20-45 HP | 7⁄8 in (22 mm) |
| 2 | 40-100 HP | 1 1⁄8 in (29 mm) |
| 3 | 80-225 HP | 1 7⁄16 in (37 mm) |
| 4 | More than 180 HP | 2 in (51 mm) |
What can you do with a 3-point hitch?
The three-point hitch (British English: three-point linkage) is a widely used type of hitch for attaching ploughs and other implements to an agricultural or industrial tractor.
What is considered a Category 1 tractor?
Category 1 is very, very common and typically you’re gonna see Category 1 on tractors under about 50 horsepower. The back of this B-series tractor here is a Category 1 hitch. This is typically used on tractors between about 50 and 150 horsepower or so, although there are always gonna be some exceptions in those ranges.
What is a Category 1 or 2 tractor?
Category 0 Hitch For tractors with up to 20 horsepower. Category 1 Hitch For tractors with 20 to 50 horsepower. Category 2 Hitch For tractors with 50 to 90 horsepower.
How does a 3 point linkage work?
The three-point hitch uses two lower connection points and one upper point which provides a rigid connection. Hydraulic cylinders operate on the lower arms to raise and lower the implement. An additional hydraulic arm may act on the upper arm to control the draft (depth) of tillage equipment.
How much weight can a 3 point hitch lift?
1356 pounds
Category 1 3-point hitch for maximum implement versatility. Category 1 hitch allows quick hookup of 3-point hitch implements, especially when equipped with the iMatch™ Quick Hitch and/or iMatch AutoHitch™. The lift capacity of the 3-point hitch is 1356 pounds (615 kg) measured at 24 in. behind the hitch balls.
What is SCV in tractor?
Implements are the typical use of hydraulics off the tractor, and selective control valves (SCVs) control the volume of flow. Implements use hydraulic oil to perform a variety of functions such as raising and lowering parts as well as providing power to motors and other devices for mechanical movement.
What is a Category 1 implement?
Category 1 hitches are generally found on subcompact and compact tractors from 20 hp up to about 50 hp. The top link pin measures 3/4″ in diameter and the lift arm holes are 7/8″. The spacing between the lift arms is approximately 26″ while the mast height is 15″.
What is a three-point linkage?
The three-point linkage is a standard design for attaching implements (equipment & machinery) to tractors. This is usually dependent on the HP rating of your tractor and can also vary by manufacturers preference. Three-point hitches are divided into different sizes of linkage categories. Most of our equipment will be fitted with category 1 (Cat.
What is the difference between the 3-point hitch categories?
To use those implements, you’ll need to know the difference between the 3-point hitch categories. What are the 3-point hitch categories? 3-point hitch categories tell you what size implements can be used with a specific tractor. Smaller categories like 0 and 1 are typically found on lawn tractors, compact tractors, and sub-compact tractors.
What is a three point attachment?
Three point attachment is a simple way of joining any implement to the tractor. The implements can be attached on to the tractor by one operator, as well as implements that are pulled they can be lifted up for transport. The three points resemble either a triangle, or the letter A. Its versatility and simplicity has made it an industry standard.
What type of linkage will my tractor be fitted with?
Most of our equipment will be fitted with category 1 (Cat. 1) linkage which is most common with compact tractors and some pieces will also have the option to fit to smaller sized Cat. 2 tractors.
