Compact Tractor iMatch Hitch

[gorbur]

There's a few out there using compact tractors to jockey trailers around. For maneuverability they can't be beat.
Lots of import Cat 1, 3 point hitch to 2" receiver versions. However, if you have a JD iMatch or QuikHitch the choice then becomes almost non-existent. Import quality and ratings dubious at best. Given my JD dealer has been backordered for the last year he recommended Heavy Hitch Company which makes a quality iMatch compatible hitch. Unfortunately if your out of country freight, exchange, and duty can get costly.
A bit frustrated I spend a day in the shop and came up with a design that should suffice for tongue weights up to 800lbs. Or more to the point match the limits of my 3025 tractor. Cost all in was $150 CAN. Attached is a pic and a rough sketch of the design. Anyone else out there thinking of doing the same it may help you out.

[Ballistic]

Looks good.

[brucemc]

Looks great!

One option would be to remove the iMatch setup, and install a standard 3 point receiver.

Rather than buy one, I built a Cat 1 sized receiver setup for my Kubota BX1860. I purchased a 2 1/2" to 2" adapter, then built the upright & upper mount, and bolted it to a standard drawbar, much like yours. The drawbar was $20 ish, and the adapter was a few dollars. I enjoyed the build, so it was worth much more than the few dollars I saved over purchasing a ready-made setup.

[gorbur]

The iMatch virtually seconds to swap between implements which I really like. What really drove me to weld up my own was the lack of quality on the import ones. I didn't mention it in the post but I did find a import that fit. When I received it the quality was pathetic. Cold welds, misaligned, sloppy clearances etc. Returned.
Reassuring that were thinking the same on the design. I like being able to unbolt the hitch from the drawbar should I ever need it separately.

[brucemc]

Here's a pic of mine:

[Red Ryder]

Hey Gorbur, put a Harbor Frieght (imatch version) on my John Deere 2320 and love it. Never thought about a hitch set up like yours for towing my Rockwood 8329ss at 8850 gvwr. Really like your setup, that is awsome, Thank You.