Hitch Pins

Hitch pins are a type of three-point pin, which refers to a range of fastening pins commonly used to connect agricultural equipment to the back of a tractor. A tractor’s hitch system consists of three arms - hence “three points” - that attach to and lift mating components. The attachment is secured with three-point pins that are available in a wide variety of styles. Hitch pins are durable, simple, and reusable options for a three-point connection.

Hitch pins are also known as trailer pins because they commonly attach trailer hitches to ball mounts, receiver hitches, or other types of connections via the receiver tube. While these are common uses for these pins, they are versatile fasteners with a design that is conducive to a wide range of temporary and in-field applications.

What To Consider When Buying Hitch Pins

Before purchasing hitch pins, it is important to think about how you plan to use them in your application. There are several key points to consider about the fastener's potential environment to ensure optimal performance:

Three-Point Hitch Categories and Classes: Depending on the vehicle or equipment in question, hitches will support different levels of weight. There are 5 categories (0-4) of tractor hitches that differ based on the pin diameter and size, three-point arm sizes, spacing, and maximum weight limit required to safely tow the component; there is a similar delineation (5 classes) for trailers towing vehicles. It is important to know your component's category or class before purchasing hitch pins.
Versatility Requirements: Do you know the effective length requirements of your pin, or will it vary depending on the connection? This will help you determine what type of pin to purchase.
Vibration: If your pin will be exposed to excessive vibration, swivel lock hitch pins may not work; however, a standard one would be a good choice. This is an important application element to know beforehand.
Environmental Elements: Will your pin need to withstand rain, temperature variation, chemicals, or other corrosive elements? Huyett offers carbon and stainless steel hitch pins with black powder coating, zinc clear or yellow, and plain finishes to provide a range of corrosion resistance for different application needs.
Mating Hitch Pin Clips: Most hitch pin designs feature a hole at the end of the shaft for a mating pin. This pin is inserted through the hole and clipped or bent into place. You will need to consider the types of mating pins that are available to you and if they meets your application requirements.

Benefits Of Using Hitch Pins

Here are the top key benefits that hitch pins offer as simple, affordable fasteners:

Cost Efficient: While an individual hitch pin is an upfront investment, they are durable, reusable, and require little to no maintenance.
Versatile: The hitch pin design does not constrain it to a specific function; it can be used a wide range of applications and industries. It also pairs with a variety of hitch pin clips, which makes it easy for you to pair it with your existing inventory.
Durable: These pins are made from carbon and stainless steel, which can withstand harsh conditions over a long period of time.
Secure: Hitch pins provide reliable security on large equipment, giving you peace of mind when hauling these components.

Different Types of Hitch Pins

While the basic design of hitch pins are the same (they all feature handles, a shaft, and a locking mechanism at the end), there are a few slight variations that help accommodate different applications.

Round Handle: Feature a long shaft with one hole at the end and an oval handle on top for easy gripping.
Square Handle: Similar to a round-handled pin, but features a rectangular handle.
Colored Handle: Features an orange handle for easy identification.
Swivel Lock: Features a swivel at the end of the shaft to self-lock the pin in place; does not require additional clips.
Adjustable/Universal: Features multiple holes for mating pins; this allows you to modify the effective length of the pin.

Types Of Hitch Pin Clips

Hitch pin clips are the mating fasteners that are inserted into the hole at the end of the pin shaft to keep the pin in place. There are several types of clips that are well suited for this purpose:

Three-Point Hitch System

A three-point hitch system refers to the connection set-up on the back of a tractor that lowers, lifts, or provides rotational power to tractor attachments like tillers, tillers, forks, buckets, etc. The "three points" are the three arms of the tractor that connect to the attachment. Three-point pins are the category of pins that are used to secure the implement to the arms.

In a three-point hitch system, a hitch pin is inserted through two holes - one on the implement and one through the lifting arm. The hitch pin is secured on the end with a mating clip like a cotter pin, lynch pin, or bridge pin.