A hitch extension apparatus for attaching an implement with a pto driven
drive shaft having front and rear universal joints to a tractor drawbar.
The apparatus comprises a first member adapted for attachment to the
tractor drawbar by insertion of a drawbar pin through the drawbar such
that the first member is fixed with respect to the drawbar. An extension
member is pivotally attached to the first member about a horizontal pitch
axis oriented perpendicular to the travel direction, and about a
horizontal roll axis oriented parallel to the operating travel direction.
The extension member defines a pivotal attachment location rearward of the
draw pin hole adapted for pivotal attachment of the implement about a
vertical yaw axis located equidistant from the front and rear universal
joints when the drive shaft is connected to the tractor power take off.
The pitch axis can be located forward of the yaw axis, and forward of the
draw pin hole in order to reduce bending forces on the drawbar.
