Mechanical Pin Grab Quick Hitch VS Autolock Quick Hitch Coupler

Say goodbye to the Rhinox standard mechanical pin grab quick hitch and say hello to our all-new and enhanced autolock quick hitch coupler! Wondering why we made this change? Well, buckle up because we're about to unravel the game-changing reasons behind this upgrade. Keep reading to discover how our cutting-edge autolock coupler is set to revolutionise your attachment changes!

Differences in Operation Efficiency

Although both types of quick hitch require manual operation, the biggest difference between the mechanical pin grab and autolock quick hitch is how the coupler locks to your buckets and attachments. The mechanical pin grab quick hitch requires the operator to manually remove and reinsert the safety pin to lock the latch in place. This process involves the operator getting out of the cab twice to operate.

Our game-changing upgrade, the autolock hitch coupler, requires the operator to only get out of the cab once to operate. The operator must get out of the cab to lock the hitch into an open position, the self-locking mechanism that is build into the latch will then snap shut when the pressure sensitive finger inside the latch is activated by the pressure of an attachment pin. When the latch snaps shut, the internal spring-loaded safety pin slides into place, locking the latch shut and securing your attachment pins in place. Not only does the autolock hitch half the number of times you have to get out of the cab, but it also drastically reduces the amount of time you spend changing your buckets and attachments as it's much quicker to operate.

To ensure a smooth, user-friendly transition between these two types of hitch and to make operation as simple as possible, we have manufactured our new autolock quick hitch coupler to suit the same industry standard lever bar as our old style mechanical pin grab quick hitch. Not only does this mean you can use the bar from your Rhinox mechanical quick hitch if required but it also means that if you misplace the lever bar provided with your autolock coupler you can easily replace it or use something similar, like a piece of rebar, to open the latch and release your attachment. We avoided a unique lever bar as this would cause potential downtime if the lever bar was misplaced while on site.

Differences in Fitment Process

The Rhinox mechanical pin grab quick hitch and autolock quick hitch have similar design features, meaning the external body of the couplers are effectively the same. This provides a huge benefit in the fitting aspect of these hitches, as they fit to your excavator in the same way, which is a huge bonus if you're looking to replace your mechanical pin grab hitch with the new Rhinox autolock quick coupler. Simply, remove the coupler pins from the hitch, locate the end of your digger arm between the hitch ears and reinsert the pins through the dipper end and your quick hitch pin holes. If there is slight movement of the hitch when attached to the machine, utilise the 1mm, 2mm and 3mm shims provided with the coupler prior to use to ensure a snug fit and prevent wear to the hitch or dipper end.

Differences in Versatility & Safety Features

A feature that the new Rhinox autolock quick hitch possesses is a LOLER rated lifting eye which is rated to 250 kg and is designed to suit a 12mm D-shackle. This is a substantial advantage when it comes to efficiently and safely transporting heavy loads around site. Although the Rhinox mechanical pin grab quick hitch has a lifting eye fitted to the rear of the hitch, it has not been LOLER tested prior to dispatch so can not be deemed suitable to use upon arrival. This is usually the standard process for quick couplers across the industry. The distinctive feature of LOLER testing the lifting eye on the Rhinox autolock hitch sets it apart from other hitches in the industry. As mentioned, LOLER testing lifting eyes prior to sale is not the standard practice across the industry, so providing this feature on our autolock hitch is a huge benefit to operators as it prevents operational downtime when delivered.

In conclusion, the decision to upgrade from the mechanical pin grab quick hitch to the self-locking autolock quick hitch marks a significant leap forward for efficiency, convenience, and safety. In essence, our upgrade to the autolock quick hitch represents a commitment to innovation and a dedication to meeting the evolving needs of operators in the construction and excavation industry. This enhancement not only simplifies your day-to-day operations but also raises the bar in terms of safety and versatility, setting a new standard for quick couplers in the market.

Purchase your own today!

Do you like the sound of quicker and easier bucket and attachment changes? Why not check out our range of autolock quick hitch couplers. If you want some more information or to order with one of our sales team get in touch and we'll be more than happy to help!

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