Three Point Quick Hitch Comparison...Pats' Versus Speeco / Worksaver / Deere / Land Pride

[@stevemartinez6757]

I purchased a Pat's Easy Change for my old tractor (Ford 3600) and I am very happy with it. One thing that I'll point out that you touched on is the customer service. I happened to mis-place one of the pins that came with it. While doing research for parts I found out that there is an optional pin for older Ford tractors with sway bars available. I called the company up to order a new pair of pins for my application, and they sent them to me free of charge. I was fully prepared to purchase them, but the nice lady that I spoke with on the phone would not hear of it. That's what I call customer service and the fact that it is manufactured here in the USA is a huge bonus. On a side note, I will be rooting for your KC Chefs tonight since they are playing a division rival (Houston Texans) of my team (Jacksonville Jaguars). I'm looking forward to being able to relax and watch some football once again. I'm hoping that the NFL and the broadcasters leave the politics/social issues out of it after this first week of the season.

[@woods-garage]

Good info as usual. I have the Harbor Freight cheap one. One additional advantage with that is the ability to weld things to it to make it do more than just be a quick hitch. I have chain hooks on both sides that let me easily skid a log by lifting it with the 3 point. I also have a receiver tube welded to it so I can use trailer hitch or tow hooks that I already own. It is harder to attach the PTO shaft as you mentioned, but my extra ‘attachments’ welded to it make the frame design worth it for me.

[@martyhelfers8642]

I bought the Pat’s quick hitch for my 1964 Ford 2000 from you Mike. Greatest thing since sliced bread! My back thanks you! Great explanation thru your video. Good job!

[@reneouellette9934]

A tip to attache a quick hitch frame. Leave the frame on the ground, attache the top link first. Place a block under one end on the quick hitch. Then attache the other end to the lower lift arm of the tractor and other afterwards.

[@brookslee4913]

One of your best videos ever as I have purchased all of these over the years and your analysis is spot on and truthful. Well done...

[@DIYMyWay]

Hi Mike! Excellent video! I’ve had the Pat’s system for 2 years now and have really enjoyed their ability to work with any implement, old or new. You covered a lot of the same points as I did in my video comparing Quick Hitch to Pat’s. Your point about PTO shafts being harder to hook up with a Quick Hitch is a good one. I solved the issue of PTO shafts potentially being too short to safely operate with a PTO extender, which extends the PTO out about 4” to make up for the extra length the Quick Hitch and Pat’s add to the lift arms. Thanks again for sharing your wisdom and know-how! I always learn something from you!

[@eugenedennis2897]

Matter of personal preference as you stated. I had Pat's on my Kubota B2710HSD for many years (long before I learned of your channel). Loved it. When I added a Kubota BX1860 to my stable I decided to try out a Titan quick hitch. Loved it - although I did replace the top hook with a pinned hook that BXpanded sells to make it much easier to use with a wider range of implements. After using both for quite some time with mostly the same group of implements, I ended up finding the Titan quick easier for me to use overall - not with all implements, but most. I now have the Titan on both tractors and the Pat's on the shelf. It was a close call but that has been my experience with my compact and subcompact tractors. I always look forward to your videos and find them very useful.

[@chankalalchan5962]

i am a tractor guy myself i own a new holland and i am a fan of your site your videos are very informative i am looking forward for more of your videos.

[@rustylee9630]

Well sir I have been watching you several years and been fighting the hook up of my bushhawg and box blade even longer, 20 years or more. So as Gomer Pyle would say thank you, thank you, thank you. I got my Pats about six weeks ago and if has immensely reduced my cussing. Keep up the good work.

[@michaelslater4841]

Mike I really rate your videos. I am a new landholder with 50acres of hills and gullies and your videos are straight to the point no marketing hype brilliant thanks (Australia) I’m planning on buying either a 50 or 70 hp Kioti from my local guy. Tks

[@stepphenwolfmbsc2099]

Thank you for this information. You have helped me decide without me having to buy the wrong quick hitch.

[@The1025RChannel]

Very happy with my Pat's Easy Change. It took me a bit to get used to but now I love it. I was hooking up a finish mower on another tractor one day with a quick hitch and it made connecting the PTO shaft extremely difficult. After about 15 minutes I nearly gave up. This was on a Kubota standard L with a Land Pride QH15 and FDR1672.

[@jamesiversen42]

I ordered the Pat's Quick Hitch from your site Mike. I received it today and immediately began to install it. First I was very impressed with the quality of the hitch. I went onto my sub compact Mahindra with ease. First hook up also went flawlessly. Thank for your web site and Pat's Quick Hitch.

[@catfishinwithcrow685]

Mike this was one of the first topics I watched and I’ve learned so much in a year or so . The haul master is a Harbor Frieght item

[@rogercansler3709]

I bought the pats on your early recommendations over a year ago to fit my 2-60 white. Absolutely no regrets. A best buy accessory.

[@trentstractor]

Landpride (Kubota) has quick hitches for category 1 implements designed to be used without bushings. They have a smaller hook to go directly on the lower 7/8" pins.

[@The_Squirrel_Samurai]

Just ordered myself a Pat's today. Very excited to get it. Been looking into quick hitch recently, and I think this will definitely make my weekend time on the tractor more productive and enjoyable.

[@lancelot1953]

HI Tractor Mike, this is useful info and as one gets older - it gets less and less fun to step off the tractor to hitch implements. There was a system that I grew up with years back, International Harvester's "Fast Hitch" - it came with a full line of implements - it was compatible with the three-point with an adapter but did not catch on as IHC did not allow other companies to manufacture it. Ciao, L

[@stewartwaters1778]

I'm with Mike. I purchased Pat's around '08, the original welded ones from pat's garage. Love them. Half my implements didn't fit speeco design.

[@bigbigby4657]

Very good points I never thought about! Been on the fence about buying either, just still doing the old way. This helps greatly. Good video! Thank you.👍

[@ront8261]

I bought the Pats Easy Change for my Kubota B7500 for just the reasons Mike describes; different implements with different widths; and I like it a lot!! Only down side, and would be the same for the other Speeco style system, I have a Woods sub-frame mounted backhoe; without the Pats couplers on the lower 3 pt lift arms, i can mount the BH with the lower lift arms in place; but with the couplers installed, their isn't enough room for the backhoe to connect to the sub-frame; so I've had to remove the couplers from the arms; best thing would be if i could figure out an easy way to take the lower lift arms off with the Pats couplers still installed when i'm going to mount the backhoe; then they would be completely out of the way and make mounting the BH even easier. Need to noodle on that a bit.

[@bradbruggeman6745]

Gotta imatch and love it. The extendable links have been around a long time. I was raised using a JD 620 made in 1957. It had them so did the Massey's of the 70's that I used.

[@jessesuess4948]

I have a speeco and another con for it over the Pat's is the tilt adjustment on the lift arm. If I want to put an angle on the blade I have to remove the quick hitch. When I remove I leave it attached to the last implement so I don't have to lift it.

[@jeremygladd6657]

Hey Mike, I use Pats on my Kioti CS 2210 sub compact. I agree with all your points and ya can’t beat that stamp that says made in the USA.

[@mdh7812]

Mike, good video. I wanted to tell you and your viewers that SpeeCo has a quick hitch call an E-Hitch that does require the pin adapters. But it can only be used on Cat-1 implements. I also use a PTO extender for the PTO shafts that I had cut before I got the quick hitch. The one I bought adds 4 1/2", I think it was around $35. It has a push-pin, so it is pretty easy to put on and take off.

[@ejdprice]

I plan on going with Pat's Cat 2. I bought a Speeco Cat 2 traditional quick hitch only to find my implements are not of the newer standardized Cat 2 widths. I am alone and have wiped out knees and back, so getting on and off is a huge issue. I plan on modifying the new Pat's adjustable arm spacing bar to go up and over the PTO while marking it's adjustment for "each" implement so to set the distance before the next hookup. I will also modify all implements upper center link ball mount to be the same neutral length therefore my JD 3020 quick disconnect (with a rope or chain) can be operated while sitting on the tractor's seat. The same rope or chain method can be used on the Pat's couplers with an added homemade rope/chain guide so that disconnect can be accomplished from the seat as well.

[@flyfisher301]

Have used Pats quick hitch for 2 years now. Works with everything. Heavy, well built!!! Friends who have seen me hook something up have oder Pat’s the next day. So easy to use. 5 stars!!!

[@rogered6504]

I own the speeco style. It is very difficult to hook up the pto shaft with its frame in the way. Wish I bought Pats style.

[@frosty6720]

I use the Speeco system and like it. I use a couple of blocks under it if/when I need to remove/install it (i.e. post hole digger). I have modified a couple of implements and I do get off the tractor to attach implements due to visibility as you pointed out. I installed bushings (TSC) on the implement pins so that works great. The other best thing I did was installed a top n' tilt, don't need the adapter - works slick! Great vids Mike - thank you.

[@VinceEspositoJr]

I use the Pat's hitch system and absolutely love it and agree the folks who sell this are great and fantastic with support. The only issue I've had is with the spring wearing out and as a result that swing latch does not stay put (on my second set). As a result, I wrap a large zip tie around the hitch and over the swing latch to hold it in place. A minor inconvenience in my mind given how well the hitch system works.

[@tominsc9909]

Also check your top link length if you get any of these quick hitches. Pat's also has a weld on version, intended for replacing the ball ends of your arms. I have extendable lower link arms and basically made new inserts with the weld on version. Also if you don't have any of these quick hitches you don't have to get both arms exactly aligned at the same time to get hooked up. Get one connected and then try to get the other aligned. Also, keep a long length of a pipe or something to use as a lever near the implement to help move it around some if necessary.

[@JB-70]

Hey Mike, Great video and comparison. I purchased the Pats system and love it for all the reasons you pointed out. Keep up the good work!

[@coypatton3160]

Mike, there are PTO extenders that can be added to take up some distance if you add one of these systems and have a short PTO shaft.

[@pbgd3]

There are although I tell people to just get a overrun clutch even if the tractor doesnt need one.

[@pbgd3]

My complaint with the speedco type product is that when using that top adapter instead of the hook adds a hinge effect that is problematic with some implements. It's fine on a rotary cutter as that's floating anyway and rides on the tail wheel. But if you're using anything ground engaging it's a hideous source of slop and play with the hook and far worse with that flip over doohickey. I also like to hook up the lower links then the PTO and last the top link so I have better access

[@NSEasternShoreChemist]

I just put a Cat 1 Pat's on my B6200. I have 5 implements: ballast box (I built), log carrier (I built), Woods RM59 finish mower, hitch receiver, and back blade. The main reason why I wanted a quick-hitch was because getting the ballast box and finish mower on was very difficult, especially when the ground isn't perfectly level -- and I use the tractor for literally everything so I'm changing implements frequently. Now, I might have to scoot things around a little, but no more lifting implement with crowbars. A traditional quick hitch wouldn't work with most of my implements.

[@robertlynnblasscyk6541]

Great job of demonstrating the difference I have seen a lot of videos and yours absolutely the best. Go Orange!!!!

[@hmfrye]

An added bonus, you didn’t mention for the Speeco …it adds 60-100 lbs of rear ballast weight. Granted, in the overall scheme that’s minuscule, however, GWT has designed a system that you hang off the Speeco, to hang six suitcase style ballast (in two sizes) …which significantly increases your minimum ballast requirements.

[@5critters]

One thing about the SpeeCo design is that you hook up all in one step; there's no need to hook up the top link in a separate operation. Get all 3 hooks set, throw the levers to lock the bottom 2 hooks in place, and you're good. Then hook up the PTO. Though I'm a lanky 6'1" the quick hitch frame doesn't seem to get in the way of that too much, the way I do things at any rate. I got a generic house-brand SpeeCo type at AgriSupply, and so far so good. It only cost $130, right much less than Pat's Easy Change. Even with the extra cost for bushing sets for two implements (so far), it's less expensive. You do have to be careful when buying an implement to make sure it's compatible with the SpeeCo design, both in terms of implement width and PTO shaft length. My JD rotary cutter and CountyLine tiller have both worked just fine, though, with no mods necessary.

[@garrytalley8009]

Myself I don't have nor plan to have a posthole digger and the quick hitch is the way to go especially if you are buying new and just getting into a tractor. One can by a Cat 1 quick hitch that will not need spacers. Only when you buy a cat 2 quick hitch do you need spacers. I did have a wood chipper that was not quick hitch ready but I did modify it so it would work. I have a Kubota L2501 and I purchased a QH10 quick hitch for it and it works great. I would suggest that if one goes that way to pretty much buy the land pride quick hitch implements for perfect fit. Pats is more versatile it's true but it is also more work to hook things up. It is true also you may have a little more room to hook up the PTO shaft. If going to a quick hitch one can purchase an adaptor which is just an extension that adds about the length more you need in a shaft to fit the quick hitch if you have shafts that already fit your tractor and would not be long enough to reach the quick hitch and be of proper length. I am sure Mike would agree. It is understandable that he would prefer the Pat's because of his post hole digger and able to use non quick hitch compatible implements.

[@jimmcknight3021]

This was great information as I didn't know about the pats system. I have an older Kubota that is not compatible with the quick attach system. I like them, but they just won't work with some older tractors. I would point out though there is a new quick attach that you don't have to get bushings on your implements as it is designed to go straight in to your implement and lock down without the bushings.

[@GrampyScott]

Harbor Freight quick hitch, easy to hook up all attachments and never had a problem. Fits all my attachments. 79.99 or so with 20% coupon.

[@gckshea]

I agree, Mike. I bought a Pat's Easy Change...not even a hint of a regret!!! Every implement fits. You have to get off the tractor to hook up the PTO anyway, so getting off to hook up the top link is no big deal, especially easy with my hydraulic top link!!! That is one add on EVERYONE should have, if they have rear hydraulics.

[@coldspring624]

I went to Pats this yr and love them....easy to set for any of my implements . My implements vary just as you say and the Pats work great

[@kirkbarley4999]

Mike, I have a JD and have JD attachments and others. I found the "Speeco" difficult to match my implements. I've generally been happy with Pats, but not thrilled. If my boot slips and I go back instead of forward, I get Pat's stuck below my implement pins. It breaks the tabs, and is hard to get clear. Like some others, I find Pat's bar that spreads the 3pt flimsy and something to deal with from implement to implement. Wish Pat designed it to be more a jig that fits your "behind the seat" comment than it is now. Since there isn't a level place on my property, I find it difficult to square Pat's. As I move my arms out and up connecting, I find Pat's hooks often misaligned, angled against the pins. Certainly fixable, but hard to adjust 4 bolts and shims and more to get it so the implement pins sit flush instead of canted. Thanks for all you do, covered this well.

[@CamppattonFamilyCompound]

The Pat's Easy Change works great for me. The others won't work because of the different pin widths on my attachments but the Pat's does. To put the Pat's on my 1939 Ford I had to make some shims for the bottom of the Pat's because arms are narrower (height wise) than modern tractor arms. it was easy for me to make the shims, well worth the time.

[@2009rummell]

If you call Pat's they send you an extra shim kit for the n series Fords

[@bigal25938]

I need a quick hitch. Hooking up has been a real pain. Been using a slate bar to maneuver whatever I am trying to hook up.

[@chuckm482]

Just ordered the Pat's Syetem. Thank you!

[@silverrussell1978]

I have the Pat's quick hitch and recommend it to everyone. I am very happy with it. One problem with the quick hitch system is that it ties your control arms and top link together and doesn't allow for much movement and you will find the weakest part of that system if/when you get it in the slightest bind.

[@rickyhayes8206]

I bought a Pats' and it does not work for me. Harder to use than to do without it

[@tractorben]

Yes Sir, says exactly what I’ve been saying. Agree on all points.

[@dnwaldmann]

I ordered a Pat's, but it would not fit on my Kubota with the factory extendable lower arms.

[@claetuswoodroofe4164]

The pat’s style hooks have been coming on tractors in Europe from the factory for over 30 years we call them Waltershied as they make most of them

[@williamhaynes7089]

Pat’s Easy Change Quick Hitch will be the next thing I purchase

[@saltysteel3996]

Speeco E-hitch "quick hitch" requires no adapter bushings.

[@stevefisher8514]

Everything does not work with this quick hitch

[@bradsmith1046]

A very helpful review of the pros and cons. I have a speeco currently and am thinking of switching to Pat's I was wondering if you might know of anyone making after market telescoping lift arms as that in combination with the Pat's QH seems to be an ideal solution for amateur tractor operators like me. Thanks Mike!

[@TractorMike]

The only person I've found that makes something like that is this guy: www.stabilworks.rocks/.

[@jimpage6533]

I've had my Pat's for over a year and love it makes life easier !

[@jerva245]

Excellent work again, Mike!!

[@NeedsMoreToys]

My primary issue with quick hitch (I have Pats) is that it effectively increases the length of the 2 lower arms out about 4” so implements ride further back adding stress on my lift. I also had to buy a longer top link to compensate the longer lift arms and it’s maxed out on length beyond what I think is safe, making it a weak connection point. Long top links are hard to find. With Pats you still have to jump on and off to connect the top link. Overall it is still easier to hook up with Pats than without it.

[@jestione1]

Pat's Easy Change rocks!

[@ralphjaneheywood2565]

Try using spring washers between the two nuts, and between the nut and the side faces. ciao from New Zealand.

[@davidhoy8997]

I have seen many videos extolling the benefits of the bulky frame type quick hitch systems, your comparison between those and Pat’s is the 1st I have found, and, you hit all the important distinctions allowing your viewers to avoid what has happened to me and so many others when we make decisions not having all the available info. A couple years ago I bought the Pat’s system for my Kubota L 3301 which my daughter now owns. I now have a NH TC 40 D and have decided to get a set of Pat’s for it. The only complaint I had was the length of time it took for “Pat” to get them to me. I am thinking he opened up a wider distribution system and I plan on ordering a set from you later today......tks

[@semco72057]

I have a Speeco design hook up for both of my tractors and have to use the optional hook to put on my box blade to hook it up and the Pats designed system sounds nice, but I don't have it, but would like to buy one to try out on one of my tractors. There is a problem connecting the PTO on the back of the tractor with the quick hitch attachment on the tractor and most of my components attach easily, but my box blade is hard to attach quickly.

[@kevchard5214]

I love my pars for all the reasons you mentioned.

[@mikerequa820]

Great video Mike!! I bought the quick hitch from orscheln's it actually came with the extra piece you showed and the pins but still wouldn't hook up to all my implements except for box blade it worked sweet but I believe the Pat's would be great. But I'm computer illiterate I can't find your store where to buy them. Thanks for sharing be safe have fun

[@TractorMike]

Hi, Mike. Here's a link to help you find Pat's on my website- asktractormike.com/product/pats-easy-change-quick-hitch-category-1/?wcacra=4029161 If you need any other help, contact me through email: [e-mail] and one of us will try to help you figure out what you need. Or you can contact us through the website also, by clicking on About/Contact Mike at the top, then fill out the web form on the right side of the page and hit "send." Thank you for your interest in Pat's and my online store.

[@d.a.ballou9740]

Mike, I don't know how you do it, but you seem to post a video on a subject at the right time for me. I've been trying to decide whether to by a quick hitch or not, but I'm never sure if it will fit my implements or not. You hear about guys having to modify their implements to fit the quick hitch by cutting and/or welding something, and that is not something that I can do. There is another guy on KZbin that sells a Speeco brand quick hitch that fits Cat 1 implements and doesn't require the bushings, which would be a savings, but is 2-3 times the cost of the Haul Master brand (sold by Harbor Freight) which would require the bushings. If I'm measuring correctly, the Speeco should fit my box blade, carryall, and landscape rake, but not my chipper. Will either of these systems, Pat's or Speeco style, interfere with the extendable arms? Or even make the extendable arms not needed because of the way they attach? Thanks for all you do. Sorry for the length of this comment.

[@coypatton3160]

Typically, with a QH system including Pat’s system, you will not use the extended arms, as with some practice (not much either) you will be able to push the implement slightly to get the lower slots aligned with the pins. The practice us mostly needed with Pat’s as the raised portion of the qh is fairly short. The system I have is similar to Pat’s, but Pat’s is nicer. Pat’s also maintains your implements freedom to flex as all 3 connections remain independent from one another. The big benefit of this is all your implements will work with no modifications. The only possible issue may be the additional distance you add between the tractor and the implement with a PTI shaft that might be too short. I had this issue with my tiller. But a PTO extension between the tractor and the shaft was much less cost than a new shaft.

[@jamesb.armstrong5433]

If I remember correctly Case had a system called Eagle hitch. Why did that go away? It seemed a lot like the Pat's system.

[@stogieltd]

MIKE! Why do people not just use a little common sense with the Haulmaster Quick Hitch? You DON'T need a flip over connector. I don't use bolts in my top hook I use hitch pins so if I hook up to my bushhog I simply attach the bottom then remove the pins from my top hook, set it in place then put the pins back in. No fuss, no muss and its completely adjustable in the field without wrenches. I only have one implement that is designed for a Quick Hitch but I can use my Quick Hitch on any of them without an adapter. Now, because of some of the other reasons you pointed out I do use your Pat's Hitch on my main tractor. One thing I think you should have mentioned though is the spreader bar or stableizer bar as you called it. You did say it should be taken off however, it has clip holes so you can put clips in it and as mine stays on most of the time because typically it's not in the way. It MUST be removed, not should be but MUST be removed when your PTO shift is attached or you will bend the heck out of it when you raise tge implement. Don't ask me how I know. If you do though all is not lost. You can hammer it out straight and it will ve just fine. Love your videos Mike. Russ (Florida)

[@terrycapozza8485]

The lock lever gets loose on the Pats system and one of the lift arms drop out.It must be common.I've seen them held closed with rope like I do.

[@ronnieg6358]

I have link arm hook ends and balls and it takes me ages to attach the hay mower. In and out of the cab several times. The width gauge seems a good idea, I'll try and make one. I'd like to see you attaching your post hole digger. I find you need four strong men and a dog! PTO criticism: The pin type securing design has been around for decades and is simple to use especially with a heavy wide angle shaft. Some enthusiastic health and safety geek thought of the spring loaded push ring type which everything seems to use nowadays. I hate them with a passion and I'm sure they cause more back injury than any injury caused by a small pin revolving well behind a guard! A simple improvement to this would be a simple twist action securing design to hold the ring back while using two hands to fit the shaft. When attached it could be undone to secure the shaft.

[@timziegler9358]

Thanks for the quick hitch comparisons Mike. It is easy to see your point. Best wishes

[@joshuapreusser2265]

Biggest disadvantage with the quick hitches (in my experience) is that with the quick hitches you're trying to align two planes with each other rather than three points ..... which can quickly turn into a session filled with four letter words and loads of frustration if the different implements aren't all on level ground with their hitch planes at a similar pitch angle (fore/aft). Top link extended too far? implement won't connect. Top link not extended far enough? implement won't connect. implement rolled to a side relative to the tractor? implement may or may not connect. If I had to have lower link arms that weren't extendable I'd be inclined to use Pat's, but personal opinion is that extendable lower link arms are preferable (if the tractor has them). ..followed closely by the old/obsolete IH fast hitch (especially when combined with 3pt inserts and a top link). ...but that just might be me.

[@gilbertboffa860]

Do you have a video showing how to switch over to put a backhoe on ? that would be very handy

[@TractorMike]

Don't have anything on my channel because I've never owned a backhoe, but I did some work for Montrose Equipment in Colorado a few years ago and we covered that. Here's a link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZpPSk615d5eCmLM.

[@holdennelson7216]

Do you know if these (Pats') can be left on when I reattach my backhoe (Massey Ferguson GC1710)

[@gregb2144]

Great information of both quick hitch options!

[@donjochum1360]

Hello. Can you tell me if the Pat's quick connect will fit on my Kioti CX2510?

[@Raul28153]

Got a couple questions. 1) The Pat's can't have the spreader bar on during any PTO use. So then does getting the hookup present a greater challenge because the linkage is flopping around? 2) HAve you used the Pat's with a tractor that has a cab? Can yo see to hook up? 3) Is the Pat's system cast or forged?

[@TractorMike]

Raul, I'm not really understanding your first question, but the way the spreader is supposed to work, it keeps your lower link arms at the right width so you can back up and lift the implement without them in the way. I'd recommend getting a paint pencil and marking the widths that the spreader bar needs to be for your various implements. After the implement is hooked up and locked into the Pat's cradle, the spreader bar needs to come off and be stowed somewhere so it doesn't get lost or damaged. Then you can adjust your stabilizers on the tractor so the implement stays where you want it. Did that answer your question? If not, shoot me an e-mail at [e-mail] and we can correspond about it. I've not used the Pat's system with a cab, but since you're sitting up higher, I would think the visibility would be better to the lower links than it would be on the tractors in the video. Finally, Pat's Easy Change is cast in the U.S. -Mike

[@peteduncan921]

On the Pat's system, the spreader bar is only used temporarily to maintain proper spacing between the links while hooking up the implement. The spreader bar is then removed and stored somewhere until the next time you need to hook up the implement. The spreader is adjustable so that it can be set for different spacing if necessary for different implements. The Pat's system appears to use castings, with some machining and thread tapping. I've been using this for a couple of years, on a Deere 5065, and the only issue so far is that the hook bodies do not remain vertical under a load. I spent a bit of time initially to get them aligned vertically and tightened, but both sides rotate a little when lifting my brush hog. It doesn't seem right, but so far it has not been a problem.

[@Raul28153]

@@TractorMike Umm So then you leave the spreader on while connecting and then remove it to hook up the PTO??? Or am I operating under a misconceptioin? I thought the pto and spreader interfered with each other. So one had to go.

[@TractorMike]

You're correct, leave the spreader on while hooking up/getting the lower link arms under the pins, then you can remove the spreader and attach the PTO.

[@Raul28153]

Got it thanks. Do ya know whether they are cast or forged?

[@MrDdaland]

Looks like Pats is a updated type of Eagle Hitch used on Case's from the early 50's

[@stevek4449]

One would think tractor makers would standardize the cat 3 hook down to 2 and 1 3points. Would be nice to swap our extendable link for a pats style extendable link. Or just buy a pre made arm with that built in. Maybe pat could make those link arms with the hooks built in for owners to swap out?

[@charlieg2839]

On a Kubota backhoe, Bh77, do you have to remove the Pats easy change to put your removable backhoe on, ty

[@TractorMike]

Charlie, probably, but I'm not sure. If you'll e-mail me at [e-mail] I'll check with the Pat's folks to know for sure and let you know. If you'd like to call them direct, their number is 888-243-4204. Thanks!

[@matthewlacombe2146]

Love your videos and have learned much thanks and recommend you to all the people I know that are new to tractors. Have you had a chance to look at quick PTO connectors

[@TractorMike]

A little...I'm planning to do something on that later. Stay tuned!

[@fondy44]

Would you still recommend going with Pat's if you occasionally used a frame-mounted backhoe? Admittedly the BH is my least-used attachment but it's already enough of a pain to install without having to remove the Pat's system every time.

[@imonittonite]

Are parts available for the first version of Pat's Easy Change? One of my levers snapped in half. I like the new version with the loop levers. I wish they were interchangeable.

[@tominsc9909]

They have rebuild kits available that will probably work. I used one on an old set.

[@michaelchance9405]

Great Video, Mike!!

[@ashlandgunclub1000]

Kind of wish all my implements were quick hitch compatible but since they aren’t I will stay with Pats.

[@TedErhartCFP]

This was a great video. Helped me make a decision. Thanks!

[@mudpuddle8805]

I installed Pat's Easy Change. In theory, it's great. In actual practice, I wish I purchased something else. Pat's unit is bulky and extends the length of your two lower arms. This causes problems when I hook up my backhoe. The now-too-short hydraulic upper arm is a nuisance when using most of my three point attachments. Pat's system also needs a spacer bar to hold the two lower arms apart. That can be a hit and miss sort of affair and makes for multiple trips on and off the tractor. The Pat's System has U-bolts that have come loose and caused problems as well. I think the John Deere extendable lower arms would be my choice. Wish I bought a Deere...

[@thomasrouse3826]

I like the Pat’s quick hitches too. I’ve had two sets over the last 6 years. Like you said, keep an eye on & tighten the nuts on the U-bolts periodically. I also find the springs that hold the latches wear out over time & need to be replaced periodically. Also, use the spacer bar to save frustration when hooking up. It makes it so easy! We have a mix of newer and older implements which means a traditional quick hitch does not fit some of them. The Pat’s allows you to use implements with multiple hitch spacings. I don’t know why US tractors don’t adopt the hook system like they use in Europe. Pats is as close as you can get, and it works so much better than the captive ball pull arm end system.

[@mr.redneck2715]

How bout the jiffy hitch or Delta hook! I suppose there is no money in it for you.

[@Hfoutdoorsyt]

Always good stuff 👍

[@rongibbs1778]

On pats quick hitch how much do you have to add to the top link,

[@TractorMike]

It varies, Pat's will set the implement on the back rearward about 4".

[@bmiller22765]

I bought the Pat’s but it wouldn’t work on my 2750E Massey. Pat’s easy hitch was only has a 1 1/2” opening and my lower arms have cat 1&2 balls in them and they are 1 7/8”. Do they make one to fit my tractor?

[@TractorMike]

Yes, they make Cat I and Cat II. Click the drop down menu here and you'll see them: asktractormike.com/product/pats-easy-change-quick-hitch-category-1/

[@jamesshepherd6260]

You can get a PTO extender that make up that extra inches.

[@doylemarkham1010]

Hello Mike, how do we attach quick hitch when stabilizer arms connect along with hitch arms with out major change with stabilizer arms?

[@TractorMike]

Doyle, are you talking about on some of the older Fords or Masseys? Pat's makes an option for longer pins that extend to catch the stabilizers. If you'll note that in the comments we'll ship you the longer pins and then Pat's will work in that application. Same price, either way.

[@doylemarkham1010]

@@TractorMike That is exactly what we are talking about. The Ford is a 1974 model & my Massey Ferguson 240 is a 1990 model. I will call Vicki for mounting kit for me then order the Pats quick hitch Cat 1 with the longer pins for my son from you. He will be surprised for Christmas & all Thanks to you. 😁

[@addacus3]

@@TractorMike I just bought pat’s easy system on Amazon before I found you. I bought it for elderly man in his 80s to make hook up easier. He has the Massey Ferguson 240 Will the PTO be too short and do I need longer pins? I ordered category one. He is excited about getting this ... and likes the design. My son and I bushhog for him but I can’t easily change out implements. Love you channel. ( I like to drive the tractor but he has do the upkeep! ). Thanks!

[@carmencesario6144]

Is this available in Canada

[@swiftcaution5170]

Good video Mr Mike. Hey, I was checking out your tractor caddy and it looks like something I could use. Is there a weight limit on it? Cuz it looks like you could pile a good amount of gear in it! Just wondering..

[@TractorMike]

Yes, we rate it at 40 lbs. capacity. Holler if you have any other questions.

[@gordiesullivan3289]

How much overlap is required on the PTO?

[@TractorMike]

Gordie, it varies with each implement depending on the torque load. At least 6-8", the more the better.

[@PennyRockStomper]

Oliver had a nifty setup back in the day!

[@profdave2861]

Mike - I’m curious why you didn’t mention that with either the Pat’s or the quick link systems, a longer top link might be required for some implements, as well as a longer PTO shaft. I don’t have the Pat’s system (my Kubota has the extendable links that work just fine for me), but based on your video, it appears to displace the lower hookup points a bit further back than the quick hitch. Might this not be an issue with a stock top link?

[@TractorMike]

Yeah, that can be an issue, mostly on smaller tractors. Great point, should have covered that...

[@kevinclements440]

Not all of us can afford nice big new tractors. Does anybody have a pic of the Pat's unit on a ford 8 or 9 N or a TO 20 Ferguson with the longer pins?

[@danwilliams4877]

Thanks Mike. I've just bought some land it has a 1992 tractor with it. I was looking at the quick-hitch frame and then found that there are already Pats-style quick eagle claws installed. Great advice from you for a new tractor owner like me. Quick question. The different bushing styles, there are some round ones (small billiard ball size, with a hole for the pin to go through) and some tubular ones (like in your video here). Any advice on either style for different types of implements?

[@TractorMike]

Dan, great question! Someday I'm going to do a video about tractor design quirks and I'll include your question. Truth is, I have absolutely no idea why there are varying designs on top link balls like you're referencing or if there'd be any benefit of one over the other.

[@danwilliams4877]

@@TractorMike Cheers Mike. Thanks from one of your Aussie viewers.

[@chuckbushell3790]

Do you use pin bushings with the Pat’s hitch?