Each trip across the field costs time and money. If you believe tillage is the best option for your farm, but you’re looking for ways to improve efficiency and reduce passes across the field, here’s an idea that may appeal to you.

Unverferth Manufacturing introduces a bridge hitch for three rolling harrow models that allows you to pull the harrow efficiently behind another tillage implement. You can do as much tillage as you need and then finish with a rolling harrow, all in one trip.

You may have already figured out how to hook a rolling harrow behind another tillage tool. What this gooseneck hitch does is help you do it more seamlessly.

“One big advantage of the new gooseneck bridge hitch is that it allows you to turn tighter,” says Jerry Ecklund, communications manager for Unverferth. “Tighter in-field turning with the gooseneck-style bridge hitch is proving to be popular. We’ve had lots of interest so far from farmers who have studied the hitch and realize how it could simplify operation in the field.”

The height of the hitch allows it to clear the front implement more easily during turning operations on end rows.  

The gooseneck bridge hitch is available for three Unverferth rolling harrow models: the 1225, 1245 and 1245D. Each model is configured differently to accomplish specific leveling and finishing tasks.

You can order the new hitch as a factory-installed option on 18-foot through 37-foot-wide versions of these harrows. It’s available for flat and stack-folding models. You can also have the new gooseneck bridge hitch installed on existing rolling harrows that are already in the field. Contact your dealer, or visit umequip.com for more details.

Three Farm Progress editors who search for new products at fall farm shows took time to review this product and share their thoughts. They are Tom J. Bechman, Indiana Prairie Farmer; Lon Tonneson, Dakota Farmer; and Mindy Ward, Missouri Ruralist.

Tom’s take
If your best option continues to be tillage, then you likely want to make every trip count. Hooking one implement behind another saves a trip and helps get the field ready quicker. You also want to make sure the two-piece rig is easy to operate and “idiot-proof,” especially if you rely on part-time help. The ability to make shorter turns with the gooseneck hitch should help.

Lon’s views
A good bridge hitch is pretty handy. But one size does not fit all. Too short and you don’t get the turning radius you need in the field. Too long and you have an unwieldy train to tow down the road. It’s good to see a manufacturer expand its line of bridge hitches to exactly fit more of its implements.

Mindy’s comments
Good news! To enjoy this product, you don’t have to buy an entirely new piece of tillage equipment. The fact that you can purchase the gooseneck bridge hitch as an add-on to existing harrows may allow an upgrade in machinery while holding down cost.