We get a lot of questions surrounding PTO shafts and how to attach them to your tractor. In today’s post, we’ll cover the basics of PTO, PTO Shafts, and PTO adapters for your tractor mounted implements.
Spoiler alert: Yes – PTO shaft is included with all tractor implements purchased from Victory Tractor at etractorimplements.com!
What is PTO?
PTO stands for “Power Take-Off” and is the primary mechanism for providing power to an attachment or implement (such as a flail mower) via PTO shaft.
By providing rotational energy through the driveshaft (or cardan shaft) a variety of tractor mounted implements can be operated by small and mid-sized tractors.
What is a PTO shaft?
A PTO shaft transfers the power from the tractor to the PTO powered attachment. This enables the tractor to power a variety of tractor implements including flail mowers, wood chippers, rotary tillers, excavators, and more.
PTO shaft connectors on tractors are not standardized which can lead to complications when connecting the PTO shaft. For example, some older tractor models have the connection flange closer to the tractor itself making it difficult to connect and lead to a potential safety hazard.
PTO Adapters
To avoid potential connectivity issues, you may want to consider a PTO Adapter for your tractor. The PTO adapter extends the connection to the implement, providing additional space for the PTO shaft to turn without touching the Arm Weldment or other parts of your tractor or the implement.
As a precautionary measure, it is a good idea to purchase a PTO adapter to ensure compatibility with your particular tractor model.
PTO Shaft and Adapters for Embankment Mowing
The PTO shaft included with all Victory Tractor mowers has a longer extension than the typical PTO Shaft. The added length is necessary because of the far reaching movement of the mowers to the right of the tractor.
A PTO Adapter can be useful when operating Victory’s EMSD and EMHD Embankment Flail mowers.
The absence of a PTO Adapter could cause the PTO shaft to conflict with the arm weldment, which connects to the CAT I/II 3 point hitch.
How do I operate the PTO on my tractor?
Prior to running the PTO, you will need your tractor to reach the starting RPM (revolutions per minute). Once the starting RPM has been reached you can begin operating the PTO.
Once the PTO has begun to power the attachment, steadily increase the throttle until you reach the operating speed. The typical running RPM (revolutions per minute) for a tractor mounted PTO is 540 RPM, although there are tractor models that rev higher.
Always refer to your particular tractor model for instructions prior to first-time use.
PTO Shaft Safety Tips
The most common PTO related injuries tend to occur when articles of loose clothing become entangled in the shaft.
When operating the PTO, never reach over the shaft for any reason and avoid wearing loose-fitting clothing.
Injury can occur quickly, providing the operator little time to react, and in some cases resulting in death.
PTO Shaft Resources
Power Take-Off (PTO) Safety
https://extension.psu.edu/power-take-off-pto-safety
How to Connect a PTO
SFI Easy On PTO Adapter Model 100
Final thoughts
Before making a decision it’s a good idea to call the company you are considering purchasing from and ask questions directly. If you are able to speak with someone who is knowledgeable it’s probably a good sign that you are making the right decision.
Victory Tractor Implements is proud to offer a wide range of products including flail mowers, wood chippers, rotary tillers, and backhoes, all designed to be connected directly to your tractor’s PTO for maximum efficiency and performance. In addition, we also offer winter equipment such as snow plows and snow blowers, designed for use with skid steers.
We source all of our equipment directly from the manufacturer and pass the savings on to our customers. As always, the team is standing by to answer any questions to assist with your decision. Victory support can be reached directly at (562) 534-8182 or sales@etractorimplements.com
Proud supporters of the FFA
I am currently looking at flail mowers, the 63 inch mower that your company has advertised, Where is this company located. IF I purchased this mower and has service issues where could I get his mower worked on. Thanks ,Jim Bryant .Salem Township Road Comm..
Jim: We maintain our warehouse in Santa Fe Springs, CA. We only sell what we have in stock and carry a full complement of spare parts on-site. For immediate service please call 562-235-5725.
Kind regards
Uwe @ Victory
(562) 235-5725