Multi-section folding tool bar for agricultural implements

Abstract

A folding sectional tool bar for agricultural implements and including a series of articulated hollow sections connected together in end-to-end fashion so as to provide an inner main-section, a pair of outer sections, and a pair of intermediate sections. An offset hinge joint between each outer section and its adjacent intermediate section permits them to be latched in an aligned working arrangement and allows generally horizontal folding of the outer sections forwardly relative to the adjacent intermediate sections. An offset hinge joint between each intermediate section and its adjacent main section permits the intermediate sections to float down about 5.degree. relative to the main section and allows vertical folding of the intermediate sections relative to such main section. Hydraulic two-stage cylinders are provided whereby an initial partial fold of 5.degree. intermediate sections can elevate them relative to the inner main section to an angle of about 5.degree. in order to withdraw such earth-working tools as may be carried by the outer sections from ground contact. The entire tool bar can then be raised by the tractor hitch and if it is desired to fold the tool bar it is followed by full effective forward folding of the outer sections.