Attaching pto implements

[WinterDeere]

I wince at the PTO start procedure for my Cub Cadet ZTR, which is "push throttle to full, then pull the knob". Seems like it must be putting unbelievable forces on the entire system.

Same on most ZTR's. I used to try to throttle down to start the clutch, but I was snapping a lot of mule belts that way, as the grab at lower speed seems to be higher and put more stress on the belt. I also lost 2 or 3 electric PTO clutches, although an exhaust leak that was blowing hot gas onto the clutch may have been more responsible for that.

Anyway, someone here on lawnsite convinced me to start engaging at full throttle, and all of those problems went away! There's more slip at the higher speed, it actually takes the mower slightly longer to spool up to synchronize with the engine speed, than at low speed.

 

[Cycledude]

I have also tried both high speed and low speed for starting the blades on my Kubota ZD21 , high speed definitely seems to work better, the manual suggests it has a automatic feathering device built in.

 

[5030]

I don't know, but I have a really hard time believing that a modern tractor is going to destroy the PTO by shutting it down without an override clutch.

On the tractor, I always start implements at about 1500rpm, then throttle up to PTO speed, and gradually slow down to about the same rpm before pushing in the PTO knob.

I wince at the PTO start procedure for my Cub Cadet ZTR, which is "push throttle to full, then pull the knob". Seems like it must be putting unbelievable forces on the entire system. However, I've tried it like I do with the tractor, i.e., run up to about 1/2 speed, then hit the switch, and it bogs the engine to the point it almost kills it. So I grit my teeth and do per the recommended procedure.

Interesting. I engage the pto driven drive shaft front mount mower at an idle and then take it up to speed and do the same when I slow it down to a stop.

 

[5030]

I really don't like the sound of squealing belts one bit. Squealing means wearing to me.

 

[CliffordK]

Is there a trick to attaching pto implements to the pto? Sliding the collar onto the shaft?
I always find it a PIA to connect the 2. Various implements. The collar almost never lines up with the shaft. Then I have to play with the switch for several minutes, turn it on and off, until the shift rotates just right to slide the collar on.
I'm can't turn the implement collar generally, or turn the implement gear box.. too heavy/difficult. Then I'm stuck playing with the pto switch.
Is there an easier method I'm not seeing? Would be nice if one could put the pto in "neutral" so I can turn the shaft by hand.

I use the finishing mower, stump grinder, chipper, tiller etc.

kioti tractor.

I've run into tractors that are a pain to get the PTO and implement shafts lined up. I always have the tractor turned off when messing with the PTO.

What I've found is that most implements have a gear reduction making it hard to turn the shaft. Some implements it is easy enough to turn the implement blade. So, with my flail mower, drum mower, and tedder, I just turn the blades or tines until my PTO shaft is aligned. You can probably also do that with your tiller. I don't know what else has easy safe access.

 

[Runner]

So, with my flail mower, drum mower, and tedder, I just turn the blades or tines until my PTO shaft is aligned.

I do that to get the grease zerks in the driveline at the proper angle to get the gun on them.

 

[fruitcakesa]

Once I realized the the PTO shield was hinged and could pivot out of the way, it was way easier to get my hands on and align the shaft with the stub

 

[shooterdon]

Once I realized the the PTO shield was hinged and could pivot out of the way, it was way easier to get my hands on and align the shaft with the stub

Mine was bolted on and I removed it.

 

[WinterDeere]

Mine was bolted on and I removed it.

Mine is hinged, but I should also remove it. A previous owner of my prior tractor had removed that one, and it was infinitely easier to connect the PTO.

I'm convinced those shields can only make the whole thing less safe, not more safe.

 

[ctgoldwing]

I gave up several months ago. Hand issues made it more than a chore. Should have done this years ago.