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The 800 hitch was introduced in the spring of 1953. The 800A series hitch, which was a modified 800 hitch, was introduced at approximately the same time as the 70 Diesel, the late fall of 1954. The 801 "Traction Trol" hitch was introduced in the fall of 1955. The 801 featured mechanical linkage to transfer weight to the rear wheels. Earlier 800 series hitches could be updated to the 801 style of hitch. Interestingly enough, Deere did not recommend the use of 800 series hitchs on "A", "B" and "G" series tractors, citing instability (not enough front end weight) and insufficient rockshaft lift capacity. Another interesting but little-known fact is that the 50, 60, and 70 tractors could not be ordered with any of the 800 series hitches as a factory-installed option. While the hitch had been designed in Waterloo, it was built by the Plow Works, and could only be ordered as a dealer-installed accessory. These hitches were still available new from the factory well into the 1960's.
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