Linch Pins (DIN 11023)
Linch pins give quick-release retention on shafts, hitch pins and implement mountings - a solid pin with a sprung ring 'keep' that snaps over the shaft end and swings clear for removal without tools. We supply them with mild steel bodies and spring steel keeps, available across a range of sizes from 4.5mm to 12mm pin diameter.
Also known as: lynch pin, linchpin, hitch pin, trailer pin, implement pin, din 11023.
DIN 11023 dimensions
| Pin diameter × length | Lanyard hole diameter |
|---|---|
| 4.5 × 32mm | 2.9mm |
| 5.5 × 42mm | 4.0mm |
| 7.5 × 42mm | 4.2mm |
| 9.5 × 45mm | 4.5mm |
| 11 × 45mm | 4.8mm |
| 11 × 55mm | 4.8mm |
Materials & strength
Tool-free quick release
The sprung keep flips over the shaft end by hand - connect and disconnect times are hard to match with any other retained fastener, which is why the pattern dominates agricultural and plant hitches.
DIN 11023 lanyard hole
The DIN 11023 pattern carries a hole through the top end for a chain or lanyard, keeping the pin captive to the machine and ready for instant refitting.
Load carrying
The solid pin body carries the transverse shear and bending loads of the joint. The spring-steel keeper clips into the groove and prevents the pin from withdrawing axially.
Ring styles
Keeps are made in round and pear-shaped ring patterns; pear-pattern rings can be assembled from stock parts against requirement.
Related specificationsLinch pin or lynch pin - which is correct?
Both spellings are in common use for the same fastener - 'linch pin' is the traditional form, from the old word for an axle end. Searches for either find this page.
How does a linch pin work?
The pin drops through the shaft or hitch hole, then the sprung ring is snapped down over the shaft end. The ring's spring force holds it closed in service; lifting it back over the end frees the pin by hand.
Linch pin or R-clip?
An R-clip is a light wire clip suited to grooved shaft ends and lighter duties; a linch pin is a solid pin in its own right, carrying the joint load as well as retaining it. Where the pin IS the pivot or hitch connection, a linch pin is the answer.
Can linch pins be kept captive to the machine?
Yes - the DIN 11023 pattern's head hole takes a chain or lanyard, and assemblies with chain and split pin ends are made up against requirement.
Need DIN 11023 in a non-standard size or material?
Send us your drawing — specials quoted within 24 hours.