Three-point hitch loader

A rear end loader adapted to be connected to a three-point hitch on a tractor, comprising:

• a) a hitch frame adapted to be connected to the three-point hitch of the tractor;
• b) a lift arm structure moveably connected to the hitch frame and extending rearwardly therefrom, the lift arm structure being movable relative to the hitch frame;
• c) a bucket connected to the lift arm structure;
• d) a bucket actuator for moving the bucket relative to the lift arm structure;
• e) a flexible line connected to the lift arm structure for lifting the lift arm structure relative to the hitch frame as the three-point hitch of the tractor is raised;
• f) the lift arm structure including a pair of elongated, laterally spaced arms that project from the hitch frame to the bucket, and at least one transverse member connected between the lift arms and which is independent of the hitch frame;
• g) each lift arm including a generally straight fore section and an aft section that extends from the fore section and curves downwardly from the fore section;
• h) wherein the curved aft sections include a terminal end portion and wherein the bucket is connected to the terminal end portions of the aft sections;
• and
• i) a hydraulic cylinder interconnected between the lift arm structure and the bucket for articulating the bucket about the terminal end portions of the aft sections of the lift arm structure.

A rear end loader adapted to be corrected to a three-point hitch on a tractor, comprising:

• a) a hitch frame adapted to be connected the three-point hitch of the tractor;
• b) a lift arm structure moveably connected to the hitch frame and extending rearwardly therefrom, the lift arm structure being movable relative to the hitch frame;
• c) a bucket connected to the lift arm structure;
• d) a bucket actuator for moving the bucket relative to the lift arm structure;
• e) a flexible line connected to the lift arm structure for lifting the lift arm structure relative to the hitch frame as the three-point hitch of the tractor is raised;
• f) wherein the lift arm structure includes a pair of laterally spaced arms pivotally connected to the hitch frame;
• g) the flexible line comprising a cable secured to the lift arm structure and extending forwardly to where the cable is connected to a point that is fixed relative to the movement of the three-point hitch;
• and
• h) wherein the bucket actuator includes a hydraulic cylinder secured to the lift arm structure and connected to the bucket for articulating the bucket with respect to the lift arm structure.