A tilting quick hitch allows excavators and other equipment to easily change attachments like buckets, augers, grapples, and brooms without getting out of the cab. They make construction jobs more efficient by allowing fast attachment changes. But how do tilting quick hitches work - with hydraulic rams or electric motors? This article will explore the differences between ram-style and motor-style tilting hitches.

How Ram-Style Tilting Hitches Work

Ram-style tilting hitches utilize hydraulic rams to tilt the attachment. Two rams are mounted on each side of the hitch and when pressurized, push the attachment up to tilt it. To return the attachment to horizontal, the rams retract. Ram-style hitches are relatively simple mechanically but require hydraulic power to operate.

Some benefits of ram-style hitches include:

• Simple and rugged design is less prone to issues than motor-style hitches
• Don't require electricity to operate, just hydraulic fluid pressure
• Less moving parts mean less maintenance and repair costs long-term

However, ram-style hitches also have some disadvantages:

• Slower tilting action since relies on hydraulic flow versus electric motors
• Require excavator hydraulics to be running to power rams, uses more fuel
• More attachment swing when tilting since only tilts in one direction at a time

Examples of popular ram-style tilting hitches include the RubberTrax HD Tilt Rotator and the Paladin Universal Heavy Duty Tilting Quick Coupler.

How Motor-Style Tilting Hitches Work

Unlike ram-style hitches, motor-style hitches use electric motors rather than hydraulic rams to tilt the attachment. Typically there are two electric motors, one on each side, that precisely control tilting movement. The motors receive power from the excavator electrical system or an optional battery pack.

Some benefits of motor-style hitches include:

• Faster tilting action since electric motors have higher torque than hydraulic rams
• Smoother movement when tilting the attachment horizonally or vertically
• Tilts in both directions simultaneously which reduces swing

Potential drawbacks of motor-style hitches include:

• More complex mechanically with moving electrical components
• Initial cost is usually higher than ram-style hitches
• Require power from excavator or an external battery pack
• Possible electrical or motor issues down the road require repair

Examples of popular motor-style tilting hitches include the Caterpillar Power Tilt Coupler, Genie HQR Heavy Duty Motorized Rotating Quick Coupler and Blaw-Knox Ergo 20 Electric Rotating Quick Coupler.

Comparing Ram vs Motor-Style Hitches

To help compare the differences between ram-style and motor-style tilting hitches, see the table below:

In summary, ram-style hitches are simpler, more rugged, and generally cheaper initially but slower with more swing. Motor-style hitches are faster, smoother tilting with less swing but come at a higher initial price and complexity.

Other Considerations When Choosing a Tilting Hitch

Beyond just rams vs motors, other factors to consider when selecting a tilting hitch include:

• Attachment size/weight rating - Ensure the hitch can handle planned buckets/forks/grapples safely
• Rotator function - Some hitches rotate as well as tilt for enhanced versatility
• Mounting/fit - Compatible mount for specific excavator model
• Controls - Cab controls or external pendant for control options
• Warranty - Length and coverage of manufacturer warranty

Customers should also think about their specific application and workload. Factors like frequent attachment changes, desired tilting speed, and planned work environment all influence the best hitch choice. Reputable dealers can help evaluate individual needs and recommend the right tilting hitch tilting quick hitch for sale.

Whether using hydraulic rams or electric motors, a tilting quick hitch attachment greatly improves excavator efficiency on jobsites. While initially more affordable, ram-style hitches are slower acting with more swing during tilting. Motor-style hitches provide quicker, smoother tilting but at a higher price point. Contractors should evaluate their specific needs to determine if the benefits of faster cycle times warrant the increased investment of a motorized power tilt hitch over a standard ram-style excavator tilt hitch.