Simple retrofitting of a ball-type hitch

Walterscheid Cramer offers new retrofitting options for the trailer-ball coupling with 80 mm ball – Numerous advantages favour this hitching concept – New technical information describes conversion options. Hitching machines by means of an 80 mm ball offers numerous advantages in practice. For example, it permits transmission of high vertical loads. In addition, a play-free connection is established between tractor and implement, and an 80 mm ball offers great angular manoeuvrability. That is why many farmers are interested in retrofitting their existing vehicle fleet with this hitch system.

For this field of application, GKN Walterscheid Cramer GmbH, a specialist manufacturer of coupling and hitch systems, now offers a new and extended range of options for converting not only tractors, but also attached and trailed implements.

Rapid conversion on the tractor

Among others, these options include the inexpensive and simple possibility of using a ball insert with rapid height adjustment feature.

This unit is simply inserted into the hitch frame instead of the trailer hitch usually present. The various components are easily replaced. This system can be used for top or bottom attachment. GKN Walterscheid offers retrofit parts for all common hitch frames.

Use of a bolted hitch support is another possibility for retrofitting via the guide rails of the existing hitch frame. It is fitted in a locking position of the hitch frame below the PTO shaft by means of bolts. Vertical loads of up to 3,000 daN can be realised.

Ball-type drawbar for high vertical loads

Higher vertical loads can be handled by using a ball-type drawbar. It is inserted instead of the standard drawbar in the drawbar mount already present or likewise to be retrofitted. Vertical loads of up to 4,000 daN can be achieved.

Permanent ball for play-free hold

A new and ideal method for professional use is replacement of the complete hitch frame by a version with a permanently built-in ball. The direct connection of the ball coupling to the tractor gearbox achieves permanently play-free connection, eliminating any dependence on additional components. Vertical loads of up to 5,000 daN can then be achieved, depending on vehicle, and the achievable trailer loads are also higher.

New detail solutions

The new trailer-ball products from GKN Walterscheid Cramer are particularly characterised by the solid, adjustable retainer for accommodating what can occasionally be high negative vertical loads.
The retainer is swung aside for hitching and unhitching, largely eliminating the risk of damage if tractor and implement collide.

Your Walterscheid agent can inform you about the various options and the corresponding approval regulations, as well as the different vertical and trailer loads that can be achieved with individual tractor types.

Technical Note:
When operating Walterscheid Cramer products in a hitch frame, please note that you must pay attention to both the data on the rating plate of the retrofit part, the D-value and the permissible vertical load of the hitch frame. The lower value is authoritative in each case!