Lately, we have been fielding questions about PTO shaft lengths. Did the replacement Twin Disc®, NACD®, Rockford™ or WPT Power® PTO clutch that you could locate come with an overly-long output shaft for your application?
We’ve noticed that because of supply chain shortages, sometimes all that you can find is the same style PTO, but that has a longer output shaft than your current PTO. It is not uncommon for PTOs to be offered in a standard shaft length and a shorter shaft length. For example, many wood chippers use an output shaft that is 4.5″ vs. the standard 6.5″ length. While we always try to stock both options, there are times when manufacturer planning or supply chain shortages restrict availability, but for our customers “the show must go on”. In these instances, there are times that to get back up and running ASAP a customer will purchase the right PTO, with a longer length shaft and then cut the output shaft down an inch or two to fit their application. While this won’t always work for all kinds of shafts, it is often an effective way to keep you equipment running while others are on the sidelines.
We hope this Foley Engines Tech Tip is helpful. It is one in a series we publish for engine professionals like you. For more information on power takeoff maintenance check out some of our other Tech Tips.
