Three-Point Hitch Attachment Guide

Quick Summary

A scalable, 3D-printed storage tube system designed to fit Kubota loaders. Features include magnet-equipped caps for secure, easy access, compatibility with a range of Kubota tractor sizes (from compact B-series to LX-series), and cost-efficient customization. Starts at around $29 per tube, with discounts for multiple units. Learn how this DIY approach can expand storage on your machine and how Messick's can help with parts and support.

Overview: What makes up a three-point hitch

 A practical, plain‑language guide to attaching implements to a three-point hitch. Learn the key parts (top link, lift arms, rock shafts, sway bars, and ball ends), step‑by‑step techniques, common frustrations, and upgrade options you’ll find at Messicks. This overview helps you work safely and efficiently with Kubota and other brands.

Key terminology you should know

• Top link: The upper control rod that sets the tilt of the attached implement. It can be turned in or out to adjust how the implement sits in relation to the tractor.
• Rock shafts and lift arms: The supports that raise and lower the implement. On many tractors you’ll find a ratcheting lift link and sometimes a turnbuckle to fine‑tune height.
• Lower links with ball ends: The arms at the bottom of the hitch that connect to the implement pins via ball‑end ends. The balls slide into the implement’s pins.
• Ball size categories: Ball ends come in categories (0–3) based on attachment size and tractor horsepower, with most under 60 hp in category 1, about 60–150 hp in category 2, and larger/high‑hp setups in category 3.
• Sway bar (check chain): A linkage or chain assembly inside the hitch that controls whether the lift arms can swing freely or are held tightly in place behind the tractor.
• PTO shaft: The power take‑off shaft that transfers engine power to a powered implement. Attaching or removing the PTO shaft is a common part of the process.
• Extendable top link: A feature on some deluxe tractors that lets you extend the top link from the center to reach farther holes. Many older or standard setups require other methods to achieve the same alignment.

Preparing to attach an implement

1. Open the three‑point hitch arms so they are wide enough to clear the pins on the tractor. On many Kubota machines, you’ll remove pins from the sway bars, pull the bars out, and drop the pins back into an available hole to keep the arms wide for easy attachment.
2. Understand that some tractors don’t have easy inside sway‑bar adjustments. In those cases, you may rely on the sway bar or a check chain/turnbuckle to manage alignment and height, which can be more challenging but is still workable.
3. Know that the “frustration points” often come from aligning the bottom lift links and matching the ball ends to the implement’s pins. You may need to adjust the lift links up or down to bring the arms into the correct height range for your attachment.
4. Remember that many tractors have different configurations for sway bars and lift link adjustments. Upgrading to factory or aftermarket kits can improve ease of use if you attach implements frequently.

Attaching the implement: Step‑by‑step

1. Back the tractor up so the implement’s three‑point hitch pins line up with the lower lift arms. If you’ve removed pins from the sway bars, you’ll want the hitch arms wide enough to clear the pins as you approach the implement.
2. Attach the lower lift arms to the implement pins on each side. If you’re using an average ballast or a light duty implement, the ball ends should seat on the pins without forcing the pieces together. If the implement is higher or lower than the hitch, use the lift links to adjust height.
3. For tractors with sway bars and inside adjustments: ensure the sway bars are in a comfortable position for your implement. If your tractor uses a check chain or turnbuckle, adjust so the arms can swing as needed but don’t be over‑loose.
4. Move the top link to line up with the implement’s upper hole. If you have an extendable top link, extend it until you can insert the top‑link pin. On non‑extendable setups, use available holes and the turn of the top link to reach the correct position.
5. Attach the top link pin and secure with the Clevis or quick‑release hardware. Watch for knuckles or tight spots; use the provided clips and keep spare clips in the toolbox. We have a variety of these to offer for quick replacements.
6. Attach the PTO shaft if your implement is PTO driven. There are two common methods: a release button or a collar you pull back to allow the shaft to slide onto the tractor. If the shaft is not aligned initially, rotate or wiggle slightly while pushing until splines line up, then lock it in place.
7. Confirm the three main connections are secure: top link, lower lift arms, and PTO (if used). Then raise the implement slightly and test swing to ensure clearances before operating.

Common frustrations and practical tips

• Some tractors have difficult inside sway bars or non‑adjustable sway bars. In those cases a check chain or turnbuckle can help, but be prepared for more manual effort when widening the arms.
• When the implement is mounted, the top link may sit too close or too far from the tractor. Adjust the lower lift links first, then adjust the top link length to bring everything into alignment.
• For older three‑point hitch systems, you may need to “pound” the ball ends over the pins or use a boot to jog the ball ends into place. This is normal on classic setups, but upgrading to newer sway bars or extendable top links can reduce the need for this.
• Height differences between implements and hitches require adjusting the lift links’ height. Lift links with turnbuckles can help you fine‑tune the range of motion for different attachments.
• Be mindful of peg and pin wear. Keep spare pins, clips, and Clevis pins on hand—we see these as one of the most frequently replaced small parts at Messicks. Shop Hitch Hardware

Upgrades and parts to consider

Modern enhancements can make attaching and detaching gear much easier. Consider options like:

• Extendable top links for easier reach and alignment
• Improved sway bars or upgraded check chains for consistent performance
• Three‑point hitch quick‑hitch kits for faster attachment
• Upgrade kits from Kubota and other brands to improve range of motion and ease of use

Messicks carries a wide range of parts and upgrade options for Kubota and other brands. If you’re shopping for equipment or parts, our team can help you pick the right pieces for your tractor and implements.

Related pages you might find helpful: Three‑point hitch parts, More guides from Messicks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the top link and why is it adjustable?

The top link is the upper connection that tilts the implement. Adjusting it changes how the implement sits in relation to the tractor and helps level or tilt as needed.

What are sway bars and why do I need them?

Sway bars (or check chains) control how freely the lift arms can swing. They help keep the implement aligned and can simplify mounting, depending on the tractor style.

What should I do if my implement won’t connect because pins are too high or too low?

Adjust the lift links or use the range of holes on the sway bars to bring the arms into the correct height. If necessary, both lower links and top link adjustments may be needed to bring the hole alignment together

How do I attach a PTO shaft to a PTO driven implement?

There are two common methods: a button release that slides the shaft on, or a collar you pull back to release. Align splines and push until the shaft locks in place. Some versions require a little wiggle and a push to engage the locking mechanism.

What should I upgrade first if I attach a lot of implements?

Consider upgrading sway bars and top‑link systems, or add a quick‑hitch kit for faster, easier mounting. Extendable top links can reduce the effort needed for alignment on many setups.