How do I know which PTO to spec?

As someone who works with vocational trucks, knowing which PTO to spec to make sure your truck can get the job done is extremely important. That’s why we sat down with Brad Gulick, Eaton’s Mobile Power Commercial Product Manager, to talk about the most important things you need to know when choosing a PTO to spec. 

Why is it important to spec the right PTO?  

It is very important to spec the proper PTO for the application. The PTO must be able to handle the torque load and horsepower requirements of the system it will be operating. This information must be supplied by the end user before choosing the proper PTO, as it will help with fitment, longevity, maintenance, & overall system performance. 

What happens when you spec the wrong PTO?

If the wrong PTO is spec’d, it can cause numerous, compounding system issues. For example, it could cause early failure of the PTO, which in turn could take out the transmission or the hydraulic pump or both, sending metal debris throughout the system. To repair the system correctly you will have to replace the pump, filter element, drain and flush the entire system before it can be used again. 

What factors do you need to consider when choosing a PTO?

There are many factors to be considered when choosing the proper PTO. The basics I always start with what we call the four T’s in the industry: truck, transmission, type, and task. 

Truck

First, you will need to review the build spec sheet from the truck manufacturer. This will help in determining if the truck has a PTO prep package already installed or if you will need to hard wire into the electrical system. It may also help to determine what PTO you can use because of restraints such as room in the chassis.

Transmission

Then, you will need to know the transmission make and model from the truck you are spec’ing. Knowing the transmission make and model will help to determine what percentage of engine speed, output options, torque and horsepower loads the transmission can handle. You will also need to consider the maximum engine speed when choosing a pump, which is commonly listed as a percent of engine speed. The transmission will help you know which types of PTOs are compatible.

Type

Next, you need to know which type of PTO you will need. There are many different types of PTOs that are compatible with Endurant transmissions: 

• Engine Mounted PTOs

Front Engine (FEPTO) and Rear Engine (REPTO) PTOs mount to either the front or the rear of the engine. They receive power directly from the engine. These types of PTOs are known as live PTOs which means they can maintain hydraulic pressure even when the engine is at a lower speed and are useful for applications where constant power is required.

• Transmission Mounted PTOs

When think about a PTO, you likely picture a transmission-mounted PTO. Transmission-mounted PTOs are directly connected to the transmission. These are the most common type of PTOs because there is more space to mount a PTO on the transmission than on the engine.

If you chose a transmission mounted PTO you will need to identify where the PTO will be mounted on the transmission. The Endurant XD features an 8-bolt bottom and a high-capacity 4-bolt rear opening. Both power take-off openings operate independently of the transmission gear to power whatever you need. Power take-off engagement requests are controlled by the transmission to prevent system damage.  Mobile PTO allows the driver to maneuver a truck with a PTO engaged while moving.

• Split Shaft PTOs

Split Shaft PTOs (SSPTOs) are mounted between the transmission and the differential. They split the power between the drivetrain and the PTO. They allow simultaneous operation of the vehicle and PTO-driven equipment. This type of PTO is ideal for high power stationary applications such as hydrovacs and concrete pumpers.

This type of PTO is ideal for applications where both driving and PTO functions are needed simultaneously. They are commonly used in municipal services and road maintenance.

• Mechanical Shift PTO

Mechanical shift PTOs, sometimes called standard PTOs are manually engaged or disengaged using a lever or knob. These PTOs are straightforward and reliable but are experiencing decreasing popularity as newer types of PTOs offer the convenience of automatic engagement and disengagement.

Task

Next, you need to determine the task of the system to be used. This is crucial when you spec the PTO because different series of PTOs are best for different jobs. When you are thinking about task, you need to determine:

• Application
• Torque and horsepower needed to operate the system correctly
• Output of PTO

We’ve created this handy worksheet to help you document all of this information.

What are the main types/categories of PTOs?

There are many types of PTO’s available in today’s market. Our parent company, Eaton, is the North American distributor for PTO manufacturer Bezares which has several different options including heavy-duty, standard, dual output, triple output, and forward and reversing PTOs. Some of most common PTOs from Bezares are the heavy-duty 8500 [link] and 4100 [link] series and the standard-duty 2000 [link] series. Rear-mounted PTOs, such as the 95X [link] series, are becoming more common with the increasing popularity of automated transmissions, like the Endurant series [link to ECJV transmission category page].

Chelsea and Muncie also offer quality PTO options for North America. Customers with Endurant transmissions in Australia can use PTOs manufactured by Hydreco, IPH and OMFB.

Transmission Specifications

Eaton Cummins transmission have great resources such as the Endurant XD Series PTO Installation and Body Integration Guide and the Endurant HD PTO installation guide. They contain information about transmission specs and PTO capabilities, proper installation procedures, and configuration assistance.

Application Catalog:

The Bezares Application Catalog Application Catalogue - Bezares SA - Leading hydraulic manufacturer offers detailed information about various PTO models and their applications. It covers compatibility, specifications, and use cases for different types of PTOs. By referring to this catalog, you can identify the PTO that best suits your specific needs based on the intended application and vehicle type.

PTO Distributor Locator Tool:

Eaton’s Bezares Distributor Locator Tool helps you find authorized distributors and dealers who specialize in PTOs. By using this tool, you can connect with experts who can provide personalized advice, recommend suitable PTO options, and guide you through the selection process. They can also assist with installation and maintenance, ensuring a seamless experience for your commercial vehicle.

Roadranger Representative Lookup Tool:

The Roadranger Representative Lookup Tool is another valuable resource. It allows you to find local representatives who specialize in PTOs (aftermarket specialists) as well as local representatives who specialize in transmissions (Roadrangers). These representatives have in-depth knowledge of the product range and can offer insights based on your specific requirements. No matter your role, connecting with a Roadranger representative can help you make informed decisions about PTO specifications.