Checking PTO Driveshaft Length

The PTO driveshaft is a standard length. Certain driveshaft applications may cause contact with transmission. Driveshaft length may need to be shortened to avoid contact.


Checking PTO Driveshaft

Check PTO driveshaft movement before operating implement.

  1. Park machine safely. (See Parking Safely in the Safety section.)

  2. Install driveshaft on implement.

  3. Install implement on tractor. Do not install driveshaft on tractor.

  4. Check the fully shortened position of the driveshaft.

    1. Push the driveshaft in to its shortest length by hand.


    2. MXAL41794
      MXAL41794-UN-18FEB13

      Check the area where the outer tube shield (A) meets the shield bell (B).

    3. If the outer tube shield does not touch the shield bell, make a mark on the inner tube where the outer tube shield ends.

  5. Install driveshaft on tractor and adjust the center link to level the implement for operating while in lowered position. See Using 3-Point Hitch in OPERATING Section.

  6. Have an observer stand a safe distance from the implement to tell you when the driveshaft is fully shortened.

  7. Set the tractor at low idle and raise the implement, stopping when the observer sees the outer tube shield reach the mark on the inner tube, or the outer tube shield touches the shield bell.

    • If the implement is fully raised, and the driveshaft does not reach the fully shortened position, with either the outer tube shield at the mark or touching the bell shield, the driveshaft is ready for operation.
    • If the driveshaft reaches the fully shortened position before the implement is fully raised, the driveshaft will need to be shortened.


Shortening the PTO Driveshaft

Do not use the driveshaft with an implement if the rotating shaft is not completely covered. Check to make sure shaft is covered before operating.

  1. See your John Deere dealer for assistance, or remove 25mm (1 in.) from the ends of the driveshaft (C) and the ends of the shield tubes (D).

  2. Check driveshaft length again, and shorten further if needed.

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