• Compact hitch handles front implements without steering restrictions
• Lift capacity up to 4.55 tonnes; single- and double-acting lift cylinders
• PTO and hydraulic couplings for powered and power-adjusted implements
A compact front three-point linkage and power take-off assembly introduced as a factory-fitted option for McCormick MTX tractors caters for the growing popularity of front-mounted implements.
Produced to McCormick's specification by Zuidberg, a specialist manufacturer of front-end equipment, the new assembly is especially compact and can be used without restricting the steering angle or turning circle of the tractor.
"Using an implement on the front as well as back is an excellent way of making full use of a tractor's power and traction," says Paul Wade, McCormick technical specialist. "Especially on a tractor like the MTX, which has a cast chassis designed to withstand substantial front-end loads and stresses."
However, it is important to use a hitch with the correct geometry, he adds, and one that does not interfere with any aspect of the host tractor.
The new McCormick-Zuidberg unit is designed for the 115hp MTX120, 131hp MTX135 and the 152hp MTX150 – McCormick's most popular six-cylinder tractor.
It bolts directly to the cast chassis at the front and is plumbed into the hydraulic valves at the rear. Diverter taps select single- or double-acting operation of the lift cylinders to suit different types of implement and there is also a tap to lock-off the front lift arms for safety; for transport, the arms fold up to a near vertical position.
Couplers provide hydraulic power for the implement if needed – to fold wings on a cultivator or to operate the push-off frame on a buckrake, for example.
Lift capacity is a generous 3 to 4.55 tonnes through the full range of linkage arm movement, while the 1000rpm pto shaft is powered from the engine crankshaft via a multi-disc clutch for smooth drive engagement and maximum power/torque delivery.
Factory-fitted, the GB list price for front linkage alone is £1373; a front linkage and pto combination is £3621.
A 900kg solid weight block for the front linkage has also been introduced as a means of quickly ballasting the tractor when operating heavy rear-mounted implements and removing it for lighter work. It retails for £1148.
