Work truck power take-offs: What you need to know
Power Take-Off FAQ - Part 1
A power take-off is vital to numerous work truck applications. Whether a Kenworth or other OEM such as Freightliner or Peterbilt, having an expert team guide the process to spec’ the right PTO is essential.
What is a PTO? What does it do?
A power take-off, or a PTO, is a piece of equipment that transfers a vehicle engine’s power to external equipment.
Where does it go?
A PTO is mounted on your transmission, either on the right, left, top, bottom, or countershaft.
Why would you want or need a PTO? Why is it so important to have the right one?
A PTO is crucial if you’re using auxiliary equipment such as hoists, air compressors, snowplows, cranes, or hoists.
There are many different kinds of power take-offs: light-duty, one-speed, single-gear units; extra-heavy-duty units; forward and reverse operation units; and rear mounts. PTOs are available in so many sizes and capacities because each application requires a specific type. However, according to Work Truck Online, it is very important to be diligent when selecting a PTO because “many configurations can often work in an application.”
When deciding which PTO is best for you, keep in mind you want to “select a PTO that gives you the best performance and cost while minimizing and balancing long-term maintenance and repair costs” (Work Truck Online). You can begin to narrow down the right PTO for your work truck application using our Muncie Power PTO Designer.
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