I have both 6ft. finish and brush cutter. Most times I back up and stop short of the implement and hook the PTO shaft up first. Instead of straddling the mower I'm standing on the ground with much more room to work. I agree with Avenger on marking the splines with a sharpie or paint. I can turn both PTO shafts on my mowers. It's somewhat difficult but can be done. You may be able to take a small bar or large screw driver and put it through the yoke to turn it slightly.