Mowing pto operation

grainger12002 · Apr 24, 2011

first time w the pto on the 336,is it recommended to slow the rpms then engage the lever,i assume the power shift will work like live power once turning,just looking for best operating method.
Thanks !

YannyMan · Apr 24, 2011

When mine worked, I always engaged it at the lowest RPM possible to save the clutches.

winston1 · Apr 24, 2011

Finish mowers rpms usually drop real quick. I personally use the hand throttle set at whatever rpm I am mowing at and do not change it starting and stopping. I have to do a considerable amount stopping and starting mowing around all the obstacles I have. I need the immediate rpms on mower when I start moving. Never had a problem doing it this way. Just my way, not saying it works for everyone.

Rustyiron · Apr 24, 2011

Think of it just like a clutch in a car or truck, you wouldn't dump it at a high eng. rpm unless you were drag racing. The same goes for your tractor. Also don't take forever engaging it (excessive wear). Have fun.

California · Apr 24, 2011

grainger12002 said:
first time w the pto on the 336,is it recommended to slow the rpms then engage the lever,i assume the power shift will work like live power once turning,just looking for best operating method.
Thanks !

The pto is a direct mechanical connection from the transmission. It starts turning when you let the clutch out. It isn't buffered through the Powershift. So declutch before engaging the pto, and go easy on the clutch as you let it out.

Everything is stuffed in one enclosure, but it helps to visualize the range selector as a front all-mechanical transmission that feeds the pto, and also feeds the input of the second transmission, the Powershift, which is responsible for driving the wheels.