A strong garden tractor hitch should fit your mower’s mounting points, connect to the trailer hardware you use, and sit at a height that keeps towing level. The ECOTRIC JD-011 is a leading choice for owners who want five height settings and compatibility with several conventional mower brands, including specified John Deere compact tractor models. This roundup also compares fixed hi-hitches, a three-way tractor hitch, a mower-focused receiver-style option, and a zero-turn kit with a 2-inch ball.
The right pick depends less on a broad compatibility claim than on your tractor’s rear plate or hitch setup and the ball or pin connection your trailer requires. Check those details before ordering, and do not treat a stated capacity as proof of safe towing for your particular tractor.
The ECOTRIC JD-011 is the best overall choice because it offers five adjustable heights to help level a trailer, accepts a standard 3/4-inch-shank ball, and is listed for conventional mowers from several brands. Its specified compatibility also includes John Deere JD 1023, 1025R, 1026R, and 2025R models. Confirm that your tractor’s mounting arrangement matches before buying; the listed fitment does not establish a towing limit for every tractor or trailer combination.
Our Top Picks
Best OverallFive adjustable heights help level a trailer, it accepts a standard 3/4-inch-shank ball, and fitment includes conventional mowers and specified John Deere models.
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Best Adjustable FitFive positions support level towing, and its ball mount accepts a standard 3/4-inch shank; the listing covers several common mower brands.
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Best Three-Way HitchThis all-steel tractor hitch has a 5-inch rise and slotted 6-inch and 3-inch support braces for adjustment across tractor models.
View on Amazon- Broad Brand Fit Eapele EA97013
- Included 2-Inch Ball CAROD ZTLMHP004
Compare Hitch Fit, Adjustment, and Setup
| # | Product | Material | Weight | Compatible with Vehicle Type | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1. ECOTRIC JD-011Best Overall | — | 3.95 kg | Tractor | View on Amazon |
| 2 | 2. Eapele EA97013-N1Best Adjustable Fit | — | — | Lawn Mower | View on Amazon |
| 3 | 3. HECASA MO-1184Best Three-Way Hitch | Alloy Steel | — | Tractor, Trailer | View on Amazon |
| 4 | 4. Eapele EA97013Broad Brand Fit | Iron | 5 lb | Lawn Mower, Marine-Personal-Craft, Tractor… | View on Amazon |
| 5 | 5. lifgarfe FBAS07Conventional Mower Tow Setup | Alloy Steel | — | Lawn Mower, Tractor, Trailer | View on Amazon |
| 6 | 6. LAFORMO LFMOT001228Bolt-On Iron Mower Hitch | Iron | 2.94 kg | Lawn Mower | View on Amazon |
| 7 | 7. MOEUFFIR Trailer HitchHeavy-Steel Conventional Mower Hitch | Metal | 2.8 kg | Lawn Mower, Tractor, Trailer | View on Amazon |
| 8 | 8. CAROD ZTLMHP004Included 2-Inch Ball | Metal | 6.9 lb | ATV, Garden Tractor, Golf Cart, Lawn Mower… | View on Amazon |
| 9 | 9. ELITEWILL TOW_HITCHProperty Trailer Hauling | Carbon Steel | 9.07 g | Lawn Mower, Marine-Personal-Craft, Tractor… | View on Amazon |
| 10 | 10. Kolpin 85620ATV UTV Dual-Towing Receiver | Alloy Steel | 1.1 lb | ATV, UTV | View on Amazon |
Detailed Reviews: Best Trailer Hitch For Garden Tractor

#1 · Best Overall
1. ECOTRIC JD-011
- Weight: 3.95 kg
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Tractor
Best for: Adjustable Trailer-Leveling Hitch.
Why it ranks #1: Five adjustable heights help level a trailer, it accepts a standard 3/4-inch-shank ball, and fitment includes conventional mowers and specified John Deere models.
Five freely adjustable height positions are the defining feature of the ECOTRIC hitch, letting owners set trailer tongue height for a more level hookup. It fits conventional lawn mowers, including listed John Deere and Cub Cadet models, and its ball mount takes a standard 3/4-inch-shank ball.
The five-position adjustment addresses mismatched mower and trailer heights: users can select a position to level the trailer rather than rely on a fixed mount. The hitch accepts a standard 3/4-inch-shank ball, making that measurement central when choosing a ball for the setup. Compatibility includes conventional lawn mowers and specified John Deere JD 1023, 1025R, 1026R, and 2025R tractors. The package includes the adjustable hitch and hardware, so the listed components cover the mounting setup.
- Five adjustable height positions for leveling a trailer
- Accepts standard 3/4-inch-shank hitch balls
- Compatible with conventional mowers and named John Deere tractor models
- Hardware is included
- The listed ball mount requires a 3/4-inch-shank ball.
Skip it if you need a ball mount for a larger shank; lifgarfe FBAS07 accepts balls up to 3/4 inch, so it does not solve that need either.
This suits owners who need to level trailers behind compatible conventional mowers or the listed John Deere compact tractors. Check that your ball has a 3/4-inch shank; that size is the stated connection limit.
Full product details
| Brand | ECOTRIC |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Tractor |
| Included Components | 1*Adjustable Lawn Garden Tractor Hitch. Including all hardware |
| Item Weight | 3.95 kg |
| Manufacturer | ECOTRIC |
| Part Number | JD-011 |
| Model Number | JD-011 |
Listed on Amazon as: ECOTRIC Lawn Mower Trailer Towing Hitch fit for John Deere Cub Cadet
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#2 · Best Adjustable Fit
2. Eapele EA97013-N1
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Lawn Mower
Best for: Five-Position Trailer Leveling.
Why it ranks #2: Five positions support level towing, and its ball mount accepts a standard 3/4-inch shank; the listing covers several common mower brands.
Five adjustable positions make this Eapele hitch a useful choice when trailer height needs to match a conventional riding mower. Its ball mount accepts a standard 3/4-inch-shank ball, and the compatibility list covers John Deere, Cub Cadet, Craftsman, Husqvarna, Poulan Pro, and Ariens.
The five height positions let owners set the trailer connection to reduce dragging and improve stability, as stated in the listing. That adjustability pairs with a standard 3/4-inch-shank ball mount, giving buyers a clear ball requirement before setup. Compatibility covers several common riding-mower brands and conventional mowers. The hitch ball is not included, so the owner must supply a matching ball; this matters when planning a complete towing connection.
- Five adjustable positions for trailer leveling
- Accepts a standard 3/4-inch-shank ball
- Compatible with several listed riding-mower brands
- Listing identifies reduced dragging and improved stability as benefits
- The hitch ball is not included.
Skip it if you want a supplied hitch ball for a zero-turn setup; CAROD ZTLMHP004 includes a 2-inch ball and lists zero-turn mower compatibility.
This is suited to conventional mower owners who need to adjust trailer height and already have, or will obtain, a 3/4-inch-shank ball. The ball is not included, so account for that separate connection requirement.
Full product details
| Brand | Eapele |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Lawn Mower |
| Included Components | Adjustable Trailer Hitch |
| Manufacturer | Eapele |
| Part Number | EA97013-N1 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 1 Year Manufacturer |
| Model Number | EA97013-N1 |
Listed on Amazon as: Adjustable Trailer Hitch for Lawn Mower and Garden Tractor, Compatible with John Deere Ariens Cub Cadet Poulan Pro Husky Husqvarna Craftsman Riding Mower
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#3 · Best Three-Way Hitch
3. HECASA MO-1184
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Tractor, Trailer
Best for: Five-Inch-Rise Three-Way Hitch.
Why it ranks #3: This all-steel tractor hitch has a 5-inch rise and slotted 6-inch and 3-inch support braces for adjustment across tractor models.
A 5-inch rise and three-way hitch format distinguish the HECASA from basic mower towing mounts, giving compatible tractor owners a raised connection point. The package includes slotted 6-inch and 3-inch support braces, and the listing names John Deere, Cub Cadet, and Husqvarna compatibility.
The 5-inch rise sets the hitch’s stated mounting height, while the three-way format offers a different connection arrangement from a simple fixed towing point. Included 6-inch and 3-inch slotted support braces can be adjusted to fit many tractor models, helping accommodate mounting differences. Its all-steel structure and black powder coating are specified for strength and protection against wind and rain. Check the mounting arrangement and rise against your tractor and intended trailer setup.
- 5-inch rise
- Three-way hitch format
- Includes slotted 6-inch and 3-inch support braces
- All-steel structure with black powder coating
- The fixed 5-inch rise may not suit trailer setups needing another hitch height.
Skip it if you need several adjustable hitch heights rather than a 5-inch rise; ECOTRIC JD-011 offers five adjustable positions.
This fits tractor owners seeking a three-way hitch with a 5-inch rise and adjustable slotted support braces. The stated rise remains a fit consideration, particularly when your trailer setup calls for a different connection height.
Full product details
| Brand | HECASA |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Tractor, Trailer |
| Included Components | 1* Set of Universal 5" Rise 3 Way Lawn Garden Tractor Hitch |
| Manufacturer | MOD VANTEN |
| Part Number | MO-1184 |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Model Number | MO-1184 |
Listed on Amazon as: HECASA 3-Way Lawn Garden Tractor Hitch Compatible with Cub Cadet
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#4 · Broad Brand Fit
4. Eapele EA97013
- Material: Iron
- Weight: 5 lb
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Lawn Mower, Marine-Personal-Craft, Tractor…
Best for: Full-Back-Plate Mower Owners.
Why it ranks #4: Its listed compatibility spans John Deere, Ariens, Cub Cadet, Poulan Pro, Husqvarna, and Craftsman, though some installations may need modifications.
A broad list of compatible mower brands makes the Eapele hitch relevant to owners of John Deere, Ariens, Cub Cadet, and several other riding mowers. Its key mounting condition is a full-length back plate, which provides the required attachment surface for this iron hitch.
The full-length-back-plate requirement determines whether this hitch can mount to your mower, so checking the rear plate is essential before planning installation. The listing describes a bolt-connected installation, while warning that some tractor models may need minor cutting, bending, or new holes. That flexibility may help accommodate differing models, but it also means the work can extend beyond a straightforward bolt-on fit. The stated compatibility spans several major riding-mower brands.
- Compatible with listed John Deere, Ariens, Cub Cadet, and other mower brands
- Iron construction
- Bolt-connected installation
- Product information identifies possible minor fit modifications
- Some mower installations may require cutting, bending, or drilling new holes.
Skip it if you want height adjustment to level different trailers; ECOTRIC JD-011 offers five adjustable positions.
Consider this Eapele hitch if your riding mower has the required full-length back plate and you can handle model-specific fitting work. Its broad brand list is useful, but the installation may involve modifications.
Full product details
| Brand | Eapele |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Lawn Mower, Marine-Personal-Craft, Tractor, Trailer |
| Item Weight | 5 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Eapele |
| Part Number | EA97013 |
| Material | Iron |
| Model Number | EA97013 |
Listed on Amazon as: Trailer Hitch for Lawn Mower, Garden Tractor Trailer Hitch, Solid Iron Construction, Compatible with John Deere Ariens Cub Cadet Poulan Pro Husky Husqvarna Craftsman Riding Mower
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#5
5. lifgarfe FBAS07
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Lawn Mower, Tractor, Trailer
Best for: Conventional Mower Tow Setup.
Why it ranks #5: Alloy-steel construction and a corrosion-resistant powder coating suit outdoor use, and it accepts conventional hitch balls with a 3/4-inch diameter or smaller.
Compatibility with John Deere, Cub Cadet, and Husqvarna riding mowers is this hitch’s clearest advantage, giving owners of conventional lawn tractors a route to tow a trailer or yard equipment. Its mount accepts standard hitch balls with shanks up to 3/4 inch, supporting common small-tractor towing setups.
The alloy-steel construction provides the hitch body, while its black powder coating is specified to resist rust and corrosion in bad weather. Together, those features suit outdoor yard work where equipment remains exposed to the elements. The stated compatibility covers conventional mowers from several major brands, and the accepted ball-shank size gives buyers a concrete connection requirement to check against their trailer setup. The listing also names log splitters and wood chippers as towing uses.
- Fits listed John Deere, Cub Cadet, and Husqvarna riding mowers
- Accepts standard hitch balls with 3/4-inch-or-smaller shanks
- Alloy-steel construction
- Black powder coating helps resist rust and corrosion
- The listing gives no adjustable hitch-height positions.
Skip it if you need multiple hitch heights to level different trailers; ECOTRIC JD-011 provides five adjustable positions.
Choose it if you own a listed conventional mower and want to tow a trailer, log splitter, or wood chipper with a 3/4-inch-or-smaller ball shank. Its fixed-height setup is the relevant boundary for varied trailer tongues.
Full product details
| Brand | lifgarfe |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Lawn Mower, Tractor, Trailer |
| Manufacturer | lifgarfe |
| Part Number | FBAS07 |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Model Number | FBAS07 |
Listed on Amazon as: Lawn Mower Trailer Tow Hitch Garden Tractor Tow Hitch Fit for John Deere Cub Cadet Husqvarna Riding Mowers
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#6
6. LAFORMO LFMOT001228
- Material: Iron
- Weight: 2.94 kg
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Lawn Mower
Best for: Bolt-On Iron Mower Hitch.
Why it ranks #6: This iron hi-hitch lists multiple conventional mower brands and accepts balls with a 3/4-inch shank or smaller; a full-length back plate is required.
Compatibility with a wide range of named riding-mower brands gives the LAFORMO hitch broad appeal for conventional mower owners. It accepts trailer-hitch balls with shanks of 3/4 inch or smaller, while its mounting requirement—a full-length back plate—sets the key fit condition.
The full-length back plate is required for mounting, so it is the first physical check for a prospective installation. The iron hitch uses bolt-on assembly, though the listing notes that some drilling may be needed; that means installation can vary by mower rather than being identical across the compatible brand list. Its stated ball-shank limit is 3/4 inch or smaller, which helps determine whether a trailer ball matches the connection.
- Compatible with listed John Deere, Ariens, Cub Cadet, and other mower brands
- Accepts balls with 3/4-inch-or-smaller shanks
- Iron construction
- Bolt-on assembly
- A full-length back plate is required, and some installations may require drilling.
Skip it if you want a hitch that explicitly includes mounting hardware; ELITEWILL TOW_HITCH lists the hitch as its included component and installation instructions.
This suits owners of listed conventional mowers with a full-length back plate and a matching small-shank ball. Be prepared for model-specific installation, since the product information says some setups may require drilling.
Full product details
| Brand | LAFORMO |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Lawn Mower |
| Included Components | NO |
| Item Weight | 2.94 kg |
| Manufacturer | LAFORMO |
| Part Number | LFMOT001228 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | NO |
| Material | Iron |
| Model Number | LFMOT001228 |
Listed on Amazon as: Lawn Tractor Trailer Hitch, Fits Lawn Mower, Garden Tractor, Iron Construction, Compatible Trailer-Hitch Balls 3/4'' Shank Or Smaller, Installation Instructions (LFMOT001228)
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#7
7. MOEUFFIR Trailer Hitch
- Material: Metal
- Weight: 2.8 kg
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Lawn Mower, Tractor, Trailer
Best for: Heavy-Steel Conventional Mower Hitch.
Why it ranks #7: The heavy-duty steel hitch is listed for conventional mowers including John Deere, Cub Cadet, and Husqvarna, but provides fewer fitment details.
Heavy-duty steel is the main practical draw of the MOEUFFIR hitch, which is intended to give conventional riding mowers a towing connection for yard work. Its compatibility list includes John Deere, Cub Cadet, Husqvarna, and Craftsman, covering several common mower brands.
The heavy-duty steel construction is described as providing stronger carrying capacity, making it the feature to weigh for owners adding towing tasks to a lawn tractor. The hitch is stated to be easy to install and compatible with conventional mowers, including the named brands. Those details support a straightforward conversion for a compatible mower, but the supplied information does not specify a ball size or adjustable height positions. Buyers should base the connection plan on the hitch details provided.
- Heavy-duty steel construction
- Compatible with listed John Deere, Cub Cadet, Husqvarna, and Craftsman mowers
- Stated to be easy to install
- Converts a conventional mower for towing tasks
- The supplied listing does not specify ball size or adjustable height positions.
Skip it if you need a stated ball-shank size and multiple height settings; ECOTRIC JD-011 specifies both a 3/4-inch ball shank and five positions.
Choose this for a compatible conventional mower when heavy-duty steel and straightforward installation matter for towing around the yard. The listing leaves ball size and height adjustment unspecified, so it is not the clearest choice for those requirements.
Full product details
| Brand | MOEUFFIR |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Lawn Mower, Tractor, Trailer |
| Included Components | Lawn Mower Trailer Towing Hitch |
| Item Weight | 2.8 kg |
| Manufacturer | MOEUFFIR |
| Part Number | Trailer Towing Hitch |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 2 |
| Material | Metal |
| Model Number | Lawn Mower Trailer Towing Hitch |
Listed on Amazon as: Lawn Mower Trailer Towing Hitch, Garden Tractor Pro Hi Hitch Compatible with John Deere Cub Cadet Husqvarna Riding Mowers
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#8 · Included 2-Inch Ball
8. CAROD ZTLMHP004
- Material: Metal
- Weight: 6.9 lb
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: ATV, Garden Tractor, Golf Cart, Lawn Mower…
Best for: Zero-Turn Ball-Hitch Setup.
Why it ranks #8: The kit includes a 2-inch hitch ball, magnetic pin, and hardware, and lists garden tractors and zero-turn mowers among compatible vehicle types.
A supplied 2-inch hitch ball makes this CAROD kit distinct for owners seeking a ready ball connection for a zero-turn mower. The listed kit also includes a magnetic hitch pin and clip, and it specifies compatibility with zero-turn mowers, lawn mowers, garden tractors, ATVs, and UTVs.
The included 2-inch ball means buyers do not need to source that ball separately for a matching trailer coupler. A magnetic hitch pin and clip are also included for the hitch connection, while the listed vehicle compatibility spans zero-turn mowers and several other outdoor vehicles. CAROD states a maximum towing capacity of 10,000 pounds; that figure is a listed specification, not a substitute for checking the towing limits of the vehicle and trailer components.
- Includes a 2-inch hitch ball
- Includes a magnetic hitch pin and clip
- Lists zero-turn mower compatibility
- Lists a 10,000-pound maximum towing capacity
- The included ball is 2 inches, which may not match other coupler sizes.
Skip it if you need a hitch with five height positions to level a trailer; ECOTRIC JD-011 offers adjustable height settings.
This kit suits a zero-turn mower owner whose trailer uses a 2-inch ball coupler and who wants the pin and clip included. Its stated capacity does not establish the capacity of your mower or other towing components.
Full product details
| Brand | CAROD |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | ATV, Garden Tractor, Golf Cart, Lawn Mower, Truck, UTV, Zero Turn Lawn Mower |
| Included Components | 1 x 2" Hitch Ball, 1 x Harewares Accessories, 1 x Magnetic Hitch Pin & Clip, 1 x Zero Turn Mower Hitch |
| Item Weight | 6.9 pounds |
| Manufacturer | CAROD |
| Part Number | ZTLMHP004 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 12 months |
| Material | Metal |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 10000 pounds |
| Model Number | ZTLMHP004 |
Listed on Amazon as: Lawn Mower Hitch with 2" Ball, Trailer Hitch Zero Turn Mower Accessories
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#9
9. ELITEWILL TOW_HITCH
- Material: Carbon Steel
- Weight: 9.07 g
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Lawn Mower, Marine-Personal-Craft, Tractor…
Best for: Property Trailer Hauling.
Why it ranks #9: Its three-point hitch lists conventional lawn mowers and tractor use, with a steel structure and installation instructions, but gives little adjustment detail.
The three-point hitch format is the central feature of this ELITEWILL setup, connecting a conventional riding mower with utility-trailer tasks around a property. The listing names Cub Cadet, John Deere, and Husqvarna among compatible brands and also describes moving a boat around the property.
Its steel structure and powder-coated surface are specified to withstand most trailer loads and resist exposure, making them relevant for outdoor hauling. The three-point format is intended to transform a riding mower into a utility-trailer puller, including the listed use of moving a boat around a property. Installation instructions are included, offering guidance during setup. The listing gives no adjustable height positions, so buyers with varied trailer tongue heights should consider that fixed-setup limitation.
- Three-point hitch format for conventional lawn mowers
- Compatible with listed Cub Cadet, John Deere, and Husqvarna models
- Steel structure with powder-coated surface
- Installation instructions are included
- The listing does not specify adjustable hitch-height positions.
Skip it if you need to level trailers at several heights; ECOTRIC JD-011 provides five adjustable positions.
This is a fit for owners of compatible conventional mowers who want to pull a utility trailer or move a boat around their property. The listing does not describe height adjustment, so varied trailer setups may need another approach.
Full product details
| Brand | ELITEWILL |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Lawn Mower, Marine-Personal-Craft, Tractor, Trailer |
| Included Components | Lawn Mower Trailer Towing Hitch |
| Item Weight | 9.07 g |
| Manufacturer | ELITEWILL |
| Part Number | EW-C76 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Yes |
| Material | Carbon Steel |
| Model Number | TOW_HITCH |
Listed on Amazon as: Lawn Mower Trailer Towing Hitch Reciever
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#10
10. Kolpin 85620
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Weight: 1.1 lb
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: ATV, UTV
Best for: ATV UTV Dual-Towing Receiver.
Why it ranks #10: This alloy-steel multi-hitch fits 2-inch receiver hitches and serves ATV or UTV use, but its listed vehicle types do not include garden tractors.
Dual towing capability is the Kolpin hitch’s defining feature: its 2-inch receiver drawbar supports a ball mount or pin mount. Side loops add attachment points for tie-downs, tow straps, or safety chains, making this an ATV or UTV receiver option rather than a mower-specific hitch.
The drawbar fits a 2-inch receiver hitch, and the design supports either a ball mount or a pin mount, giving compatible ATV and UTV users two towing connection styles. Its 3/4-inch ball-mounting hole accommodates the stated ball-mount arrangement, while side loops provide places to attach tie-downs, tow straps, or safety chains. The listing specifies off-road use only. It does not list lawn mowers as compatible vehicles, an important boundary for garden-tractor shoppers.
- Fits a 2-inch receiver hitch
- Supports ball-mount or pin-mount towing
- Has a 3/4-inch ball-mounting hole
- Side loops attach tie-downs, tow straps, or safety chains
- The listing specifies ATV and UTV compatibility, not lawn-mower compatibility.
Skip it if you need a hitch specifically listed for lawn mowers; Eapele EA97013-N1 names conventional lawn mowers as compatible.
Choose this for an ATV or UTV with a 2-inch receiver when you value ball-or-pin towing and side attachment loops. It is an off-road receiver accessory, not a listed garden-tractor hitch.
Full product details
| Brand | Kolpin |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | ATV, UTV |
| Included Components | Mounting Hardware, Receiver |
| Item Weight | 1.1 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Kolpin |
| Part Number | 85620 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 1 year manufacturer |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Model Number | 85620 |
Listed on Amazon as: Kolpin 3-Way Hitch, 2-Inch – 85620 , Black
View on AmazonAvoid the rear-plate compatibility trap
A hitch described as universal may still fail to mount if your tractor’s rear plate does not match its attachment style. The Eapele EA97013 and LAFORMO LFMOT001228 both specify a full-length back plate, and the LAFORMO listing notes that some drilling may be required. The ECOTRIC JD-011 instead advertises broad mower fitment and names several John Deere compact tractor models, but that does not confirm every tractor configuration.
Before ordering, compare the hitch’s actual mounting points with your tractor’s rear plate, holes, and available clearance. Do not assume that brand compatibility alone guarantees a direct fit.
If the hitch listing mentions modifications, decide whether you can safely make them and whether they will leave enough solid material around the fasteners. When fitment remains uncertain, verify the specific tractor model and hitch arrangement with the seller or manufacturer rather than relying on a general compatibility list.
Match the hitch connection to your trailer
The hitch must match the trailer’s connection, not just the tractor. Several listed products accept a ball with a 3/4-inch shank: the ECOTRIC JD-011 and Eapele EA97013-N1 explicitly describe that standard, while the lifgarfe FBAS07 accepts a ball with a 3/4-inch diameter or smaller. The CAROD ZTLMHP004 instead includes a 2-inch ball, so its supplied interface is a different consideration.
The Kolpin 85620 is a receiver-style ATV/UTV hitch with a 3/4-inch ball-mounting hole, not a listed garden-tractor hitch. These details describe connection dimensions, not the size of a trailer coupler or safe towing capacity.
Check your trailer’s coupler, ball requirement, and tractor-side mounting style separately. A mismatch can prevent connection even when a hitch’s brand-fit list includes your mower.
How to Choose a Garden Tractor Hitch
Height adjustment and rise
Look for height adjustment when you need to level trailers with different tongue heights. The ECOTRIC JD-011 and Eapele EA97013-N1 each list five adjustable positions; the HECASA MO-1184 instead specifies a 5-inch rise and slotted 6-inch and 3-inch support braces. Several other options provide no stated adjustment range.
A buyer who uses different trailers or equipment may prefer the five-position designs, while someone matching one known setup may find a fixed hitch adequate. Do not assume that more positions guarantee a level connection on your tractor: compare the hitch height with the trailer coupler height when both vehicles are on level ground.
The product information does not provide a common measurement range for every adjustable model, so verify the actual fit before relying on adjustment alone.
Mounting style and tractor fit
Choose a hitch whose mounting style matches your tractor, and check model-specific fitment before buying. The ECOTRIC JD-011 lists conventional mower compatibility and specifically names John Deere JD 1023, 1025R, 1026R, and 2025R models. The Eapele EA97013 and LAFORMO LFMOT001228 require a full-length back plate, while the HECASA MO-1184 includes slotted support braces in two sizes.
The CAROD ZTLMHP004 lists garden tractors and zero-turn mowers but provides a different kit format. Buyers with a confirmed matching rear plate can consider the hi-hitch designs; those with a named ECOTRIC-compatible model have more explicit fitment information.
Broad brand lists should not replace checking the exact tractor model and mounting points.
Ball, pin, and receiver connection
Match the hitch connection to the trailer and to the tractor-side mount before choosing a model. The ECOTRIC JD-011 and Eapele EA97013-N1 accept standard 3/4-inch-shank balls; the lifgarfe FBAS07 accepts balls with a 3/4-inch diameter or smaller. The CAROD ZTLMHP004 includes a 2-inch ball and magnetic hitch pin, while the Kolpin 85620 is designed around a 2-inch receiver and has a 3/4-inch ball-mounting hole.
These are not interchangeable descriptions: a ball shank, ball size, pin mount, and receiver refer to different connection details. Buyers with an existing compatible ball may favor a hitch listing its shank requirement; buyers needing the supplied 2-inch ball may consider CAROD.
Confirm the trailer coupler requirement independently.
Which Garden Tractor Hitch Should You Choose?
For most conventional mower owners seeking adjustable trailer height, choose the ECOTRIC JD-011: it has five positions, accepts a standard 3/4-inch-shank ball, and names specific compatible John Deere models. If you want five-position adjustment and your mower appears on its fitment list, the Eapele EA97013-N1 is another strong option. For a tractor setup needing a 5-inch rise and slotted braces, consider the HECASA MO-1184.
Pick the Eapele EA97013 or LAFORMO LFMOT001228 only after confirming your mower has the required full-length back plate. The CAROD ZTLMHP004 suits buyers seeking a kit with a 2-inch ball and listed zero-turn compatibility.
Avoid treating the Kolpin 85620 as a garden tractor pick: its listed fitment is for ATV and UTV use.
Related Buying Guides
- Best Trailers For Garden Tractors
- Best Aluminum Trailer Hitch
- Best Trailer Hitch Accessories
- Best Trailer Hitch Ball
- Best Drop Trailer Hitch
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I check whether my garden tractor’s rear mounting plate matches a hitch?
Compare the hitch’s stated fitment and mounting requirements with your tractor’s rear plate, including its shape, hole locations, and usable space. Check your tractor and hitch instructions, and contact the seller or manufacturer if the details are unclear. A brand or model appearing in a listing does not guarantee every mounting arrangement will fit.
How do I choose the right trailer ball shank and hitch height?
Match the ball shank to the hitch opening and select a hitch height that keeps the connected trailer level on flat ground. For example, the ECOTRIC JD-011 accepts a standard 3/4-inch-shank ball and offers five height positions. Verify the ball and trailer coupler requirements before assembly; do not assume a ball is included.
What should I verify about towing capacity before pulling a loaded trailer?
Check the tractor, hitch, trailer, and ball instructions for their rated limits, and follow the lowest applicable limit. Include the loaded trailer’s weight and any tongue-weight restriction specified by the manufacturers. A hitch’s fitment listing alone does not establish a safe towing capacity for your particular tractor and trailer combination.
When should I choose a hitch with adjustable height?
Choose adjustable height when you need to align the trailer coupler and keep the trailer level behind your tractor. The ECOTRIC JD-011 and Eapele EA97013-N1 are identified as five-position options in the article. Confirm the mounting fit and the actual height range against your trailer before choosing either one.
What should I confirm before buying a hitch that requires a back plate?
Confirm that your mower has the required full-length back plate and that the hitch’s mounting pattern matches it. The Eapele EA97013 and LAFORMO LFMOT001228 are options to consider only after that check. If the plate’s length or hole arrangement is uncertain, compare the listing instructions with the mower or hitch manufacturer’s guidance.
Final Words
Start by matching the hitch’s mounting arrangement to your tractor, then check the trailer’s ball and height requirements and verify capacity for the complete setup. For a conventional mower needing height adjustment, the ECOTRIC JD-011 is the recommended choice; consider the Eapele EA97013-N1 as another five-position option if fitment checks out. Choose other designs only when their stated requirements match your setup, and don’t treat listed compatibility as proof of towing capacity.

