CA-R784 3 Point Cotton Bale Mover – Category 3/4N Hitch

Description

The AG-GO CA-R784 3 point cotton bale mover is a rear-mounted tractor attachment built for lifting, carrying, and positioning large round cotton bales, commonly called round cotton modules. Designed for properly matched Category 3 or Category 4N hitches, it gives cotton producers a dedicated handling solution for fields, gin yards, module storage areas, and loading zones.

The CA-R784 combines a rigid, powder-coated steel frame with four long COTTONSTIX® spears. This four-point configuration engages the cotton module across a broad area to support balanced handling during harvest, staging, storage, and processing work. The attachment’s listed overall dimensions are 73 inches by 52 inches by 30 inches.

AG-GO manufactures the frame in the USA at PRO-Link’s production facility. Operators comparing rear tractor attachments, front loader frames, replacement cotton spears, and mounting components can explore the complete selection of AG-GO cotton frames.

Category 3/4N Tractor Connection and Rear Load Control

The CA-R784 connects to the rear three-point hitch of a large agricultural tractor. It is intended for Category 3 or Category 4N connections, but hitch category alone does not confirm that a tractor can safely use it. Lower-link spacing, top-link geometry, pin sizes, lift-arm travel, tire clearance, and available working room must match the attachment.

Before ordering, confirm the tractor’s rear lift capacity at the actual load position rather than relying only on engine horsepower. The frame, four spears, mounting hardware, and cotton module all contribute to the load carried by the hitch.

A large cotton module creates considerable leverage behind the tractor. Proper front ballast helps preserve steering response and keep the front tires firmly planted. The correct amount and type of ballast depend on the tractor, attachment position, bale weight, terrain, and operating speed. Follow the tractor manufacturer’s instructions or work with the equipment dealer to establish the proper setup.

Before connecting the frame, inspect the hitch pins, retaining clips, lower links, top link, frame structure, and contact areas. After hookup, raise the attachment slowly and check for interference through the available lift range. Make sure the connection remains secure before approaching a cotton bale.

The rigid steel frame supports repeated cotton-handling work, while its powder-coated finish helps protect exposed steel from corrosion, abrasion, and outdoor conditions. Clean away packed material and examine the frame and welds regularly.

Common uses for this rear cotton mover include:

• Removing round cotton modules from field staging locations
• Carrying bales through gin yards and processing areas
• Repositioning cotton modules for storage or loading
• Organizing bales where controlled placement is important
• Supporting harvest operations with frequent handling cycles

Approach the bale in a straight line and keep the spear layout centered across the module. Insert all four spears evenly and deeply enough for stable engagement. During transport, carry the bale as low as practical, travel at a controlled speed, and allow extra room for the load extending behind the tractor. Avoid sharp turns, sudden stops, steep side slopes, ruts, holes, and drop-offs.

Rear visibility may be limited by the cotton module. Check the route and use a spotter near people, buildings, trucks, or other equipment. Lower the bale before leaving the operator’s seat, and never allow anyone beneath a raised module.

Operations needing a front-mounted cotton handler can compare the CA-F784 front cotton bale frame for properly configured wheel loaders and telehandlers. Its machine connection is different from the CA-R784 rear tractor hitch and must be specified separately.

Four 84 Inch Cross-Bolt COTTONSTIX® Spears

The CA-R784 uses four 84CS cross-bolt cotton stabs. Each straight COTTONSTIX® spear measures 2 inches in diameter by 84 inches long, providing the reach needed for deep engagement in a large round cotton module.

Cross-bolt retention secures each spear in its matching mounting hardware. During installation, the holes in the spear and sleeve or collar must align so the retaining bolt can pass through both components. This serviceable arrangement allows an individual cotton stab to be replaced if it becomes bent, damaged, or excessively worn without automatically replacing the entire frame.

Each 84CS has a published individual rating of 1,600 pounds at a 48 inch load center. Four spear ratings must not be added together and advertised as a 6,400 pound CA-R784 capacity. The complete setup is limited by its lowest-rated component, including the tractor, rear hitch, pins, frame, welds, sleeves, cross bolts, spears, tires, ballast, and actual module position.

Round cotton modules can vary in weight with cotton density, moisture, wrap condition, and harvest conditions. Operators should know the approximate module weight and confirm that the tractor can lift, steer, stop, and control it before leaving the staging area.

Inspect every spear point, shaft, mounting hole, sleeve, cross bolt, nut, and surrounding weld before use. A loose bolt or damaged hole can allow movement and interfere with proper alignment. Replace questionable components before handling another bale and use only correctly matched replacement hardware.

The CA-R784 is intended specifically for large round cotton bales rather than hay or forage bales. PRO-Link offers separate hay frames and bale spears designed for hay-handling applications. The AG-GO CA-R784 is covered by PRO-Link’s one-year limited warranty against manufacturer’s defects.

Questions & Answers

What tractors can use the CA-R784 3 point cotton bale mover?

The CA-R784 is intended for large tractors with a properly matched Category 3 or Category 4N rear hitch. Confirm the hitch dimensions, lift capacity, axle limits, tires, ballast, clearance, and manufacturer instructions before ordering.

What cotton spears are installed on the CA-R784?

The frame uses four 84CS cross-bolt COTTONSTIX® spears. Each spear measures 2 inches by 84 inches and has an individual published rating of 1,600 pounds at a 48 inch load center.

Can the CA-R784 move round hay bales?

No. The CA-R784 is purpose-built for large round cotton modules and uses long cotton-handling spears. Choose a properly specified AG-GO hay frame and compatible bale spears for round or square hay bales.