Sign in
Explore Guest Blogging Opportunities on Agriculture01: A Hub for Insights
Explore Guest Blogging Opportunities on Agriculture01: A Hub for Insights
Your Position: Home - Metal Electroplating Machinery - The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Pto Shaft supplier
Guest Posts

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Pto Shaft supplier

Apr. 21, 2025

Find the Right PTO Shaft - PaulB Hardware

The appropriate PTO shaft is essential for ensuring a smooth and seamless transfer of power between a tractor and an attached implement or machine. Size is a crucial consideration when choosing a shaft, as is the PTO driveline series.

Link to Jundi

If you make a mistake or measure incorrectly, you will likely cause damage to the shaft, tractor or implement — or all three. Furthermore, you may need to replace the PTO shaft tubing, U-joints, yokes or other shaft components.

If you’re in the market for PTO shafts or parts, you’ll find no shortage of options. Finding the right PTO shaft for your equipment can be challenging with so many choices, but PaulB Parts makes finding the right PTO shaft easy. This article offers advice on choosing proper PTO parts that will work with your equipment. We also provide extensive resources so you can determine what you need and offer the guided support of our knowledgeable staff.

PTO Shaft Selection Tips

Determining the correct PTO shaft that will function properly with your tractor is crucial to the maintenance and effectiveness of your equipment. Follow this advice to find just what you need the first time.

1. Determine if Your Driveline is North American

The first step in deciding which PTO driveline you need is figuring out if your PTO is North American or metric. You can easily determine this by the shape of your driveline’s tubing. Look at the shape of the tubing on your driveline. North American PTO drivelines are typically one of four shapes: square, round, rectangle, or splined.

On the other hand, a driveline shaped like a lemon, star, or with three lobes is likely metric. Specifically, lemon and star profiles typically belong to a German series PTO shaft. A tri-lobe profile indicates it is an Italian series shaft.

2. Take Appropriate Measurements

Next, take two measurements from the U-joint that is on the tractor or the drive end of the PTO:

• Measure the bearing cap diameter: Most U-joints have uniform cap diameters. Cap diameters can differ among Constant Velocity drivelines. For best practice and further accuracy, measure all caps.

• Measure the cross-kit width, cap to cap length: You will also need to measure the U-joint from the end of the cap to the end of the cap. To get the most accurate reading and increase your likelihood of finding the right PTO shaft, remove the cross-kit from the yokes before measuring.

Keep in mind the fact that some series are not uniform in width. Measuring the cross kit both ways is the best practice to ensure accuracy.

3. Look at Your Existing Equipment for Specifications

Locate the snap ring. If it’s in the bushing, it’s an internal snap ring. If not, it’s likely in the yoke ears and is an external snap ring. Note the bearing diameter, cap-to-cap overall length and snap ring type. It’s also important to know the amount of torque and horsepower needed to move through your PTO shaft. Male and female parts should have at least 6 inches overlap for torque load. Check the owner’s manual if you are unsure.

One of the key factors in getting quality equipment is knowing how to take care of your existing equipment. When your equipment is not in use and is stored outside, take the PTO shaft off the machine, tractor or mower and keep it inside to avoid rust-causing moisture and prolong the life of your driveline.

For more information, please visit Pto Shaft supplier.

Get a PTO Shaft that Works with Your Tractor

You need to consider several factors when purchasing a PTO shaft, and after you buy, you may find that you need to make a few adjustments so the shaft is the perfect size for your tractor. For example, you may need to cut your driveline to the proper length for operational overlap. If you raise your implement to get the shaft on, you could end up damaging your equipment. You should have an overlap of at least one-third between the shaft and tube. With a slip-sleeve, there will be about 3 inches of overlap.

If you need to shorten the shaft, check out our tips on cutting your shaft to size. We want to make this process easy for you by providing online resources and offering access to our team’s experienced knowledge by so you feel confident in the parts you buy. PaulB Hardware can help you find the PTO driveline you need! Browse our selection of PTO shaft drivelines online to find all the parts you need.

Research PTO Shaft Details Before Making the Final Purchase

PaulB Hardware provides a variety of resources to make your shopping experience more effective. We offer videos, articles and diagrams to help you understand the details of the parts you are purchasing. Our website has content that will help you with the following:

Figure out the proper PTO series: We offer a thorough step-by-step process for determining your PTO Series through careful measurements. We’ve even included a handy tool to make the sizing process even easier!

Taking apart a universal joint replacement: PaulB Hardware provides a comprehensive guide that tells you how to take apart a universal joint replacement, complete with pictures and detailed captions.

Walterscheid PTO Shaft Selection- An Expert Guide - Kramp

At Kramp, we're dedicated to delivering excellence in every product we offer, and when it comes to power transmission solutions, Walterscheid stands as a name synonymous with quality and reliability. Our partner Walterscheid, a leading innovator in this field, enables us to provide you with unparalleled guidance and access to top-tier Walterscheid PTO shafts. They connect your tractor to implements with durability and flexibility, even for non-aligned shafts. 

Choosing the perfect shaft is critical. Rely on our expertise for a step-by-step guide to match your unique needs. 

Step 1: Identify the Manufacturer and Universal Joints 

Start by identifying the manufacturer of your existing PTO shaft or the one you need to replace. Look for the brand logo on the protective covering. If the brand logo is unreadable or missing, you can still identify the power transmission shaft on the Kramp webshop by referencing the dimensions of the universal joints. 

Step 2: Determine the Shaft Type and Accessories 

Walterscheid offers a variety of PTO shaft types, each designed to meet specific needs. Your existing shaft might possess a standard type coupling, or it could feature specialized accessories such as friction clutches, safety pins, or freewheeling clutches. Walterscheid's experts will guide you in identifying the exact type, ensuring seamless compatibility with your machinery. 

Step 3: Evaluate the Connection Points 

For a successful replacement, a thorough understanding of connection points is crucial. This includes: 

  • Detailed Examination: Carefully inspecting both the driving side (tractor) and driven side (machine) connections. 
  • Precision Measurements: Meticulously checking dimensions, such as 1 ⅜ inches with 6 splines or 1 ¾ inches with 6 splines. 
  • Alignment Verification: Ensuring that attachment points align precisely with your specific requirements. 

Step 4: Determine the Shaft Length 

Accurate shaft length determination is crucial for a precise fit. Measure the distance from the center of one universal joint to the center of the opposing universal joint at the opposite end of the shaft. In cases where traditional measuring is not feasible, simply provide the total shaft length, and Walterscheid's seasoned product specialists will offer their expert insights. 

Maintenance: Preserving Your Walterscheid PTO Shafts 

Selecting the perfect Walterscheid PTO shaft is just the beginning. Ensuring its longevity and optimal performance requires diligent maintenance, including proper lubrication. Walterscheid's commitment to quality extends to comprehensive maintenance guidance, empowering you to keep your PTO shafts operating at their best. 

Share this Article 

Spread this article among your customers through your website, newsletters, social media platforms, or other communication channels you use. Together, we can improve the overall customer experience and demonstrate the value of our products and services. 

Are you interested in learning more about Slip Yoke? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

Have Questions?

Comments

0 of 2000 characters used

All Comments (0)
Get in Touch

  |   Transportation   |   Toys & Hobbies   |   Tools   |   Timepieces, Jewelry, Eyewear   |   Textiles & Leather Products   |   Telecommunications   |   Sports & Entertainment   |   Shoes & Accessories   |   Service Equipment