Side shift assembly for earth-working implements

Abstract

An implement side shift assembly is disclosed for laterally shifting an earth-working implement relative to a tractor or the like. The side shift mechanism permits various implement attachments to be mounted on one common side shift frame. The side shift assembly includes a frame assembly having laterally extending upper and lower slide rails. An implement support bracket mounts the implement to the slide rails for lateral movement. A slide plate is slidably mounted between the slide rails for lateral movement, and a piston-cylinder is connected between the frame assembly and slide plate to move the slide plate laterally. A latching mechanism selectively connects the slide plate to the implement support bracket at one of a plurality of connecting points on the implement support bracket. One of the points of connection between the slide plate and implement support bracket permits lateral shifting of the implement by the piston-cylinder from the center of the frame assembly to the left and back to center while another point of connection permits shifting from the center of the frame assembly to the right and back to center. The side shift assembly permits the implement attachment to be moved laterally twice as far as the piston stroke. The latching mechanism for latching the slide plate to the implement support bracket is accessible to the operator and is capable of being unlatched regardless of the position of the implement or automatically tripped for relatching the slide plate to the implement support bracket as may be desired.