Basics of Tractor PTO Shafts

Getting a PTO or Power Take Off shaft on and off can be a bit of a chore.  It's also possible to do a lot of damage to your PTO shaft if you don't do some preparation before hooking an implement up for the first time or understand the danger of damaging the shaft if it gets put in a bind.

A PTO shaft consists of two yokes, two torque tubes and a shield.  They attach to the tractor by pulling back (not pushing forward), or twisting a collar, or pushing a bar sideways, then sliding the yoke on the PTO stub shaft on the tractor, releasing the collar or bar, then pulling the mechanism back until it locks on. 

Early PTO's had square shafts.  Today's torque tubes can be various shapes, and the male and female portions generally only go together one way. Most have a flat spot on top of the male part, the bottom of the female part that must be matched to get them to slide together.

PTO shafts may need to be sized to match the implement and tractor combination.  If they're too long, they may fit on the tractor but be in a bind when raised so the shaft is level.  If they're too short, they can come apart at speed and damage the ends.  Shafts can also be damaged if you drive away without disconnecting and then back up, or if you drive straight through a valley.

Understanding how PTO shafts work and how to protect them can save you money and improve your tractor owning experience.

If you need any further help or have any questions about service, tractors, implements, or anything else equipment-related, please contact your dealer, local mechanic, or call us at 602-734-9944.  Please ask about our current new and used tractor supply.

If you are looking for old, vintage, classic, or new tractor parts, send us a part request. 

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