What is Power Take-Off?

Commercial trucks have a lot of power. They come equipped with strong engines that deliver on both horsepower and torque. They can tow tens of thousands of pounds and travel many miles from Chicago or Madison. One way to make commercial trucks more efficient is with a PTO (power take off) system, sometimes called a power takeoff unit.

Understanding Power Takeoff Units

Power take-off units connect a truck’s engine to another device to help it run. Some vehicles may come equipped with a PTO unit, while others may need to have a PTO unit installed. Rotating power becomes hydraulic power with a PTO system because the gear from the power take-off unit connects to the flywheel or crankshaft in the engine. Turning the wheel or crankshaft builds up a charge in a hydraulic pump.

Power Take-Off Options

• Split Shaft: With a split shaft, the PTO is a new, additional gearbox that’s mounted to the truck. With this option, you can only use the power take-off when the vehicle is stopped. You can change between driving and the PTO with the clutch.
• Sandwich split shaft: In this configuration, the power take-off unit is mounted between the transmission and the engine. It’s directly connected to the engine and it helps create more power.

PTO Uses

When it comes to commercial truck applications near Waukesha, PTO units are used to:

• Power a blower system that’s moving materials like cement
• Raise the bed of a dump truck
• Operate the winch on a tow truck or arm on a bucket truck
• Operate a garbage truck trash compactor
• Run a truck-mounted water-extraction machine for cleaning carpets

Want to Know More About Power Take-Off Units?

To learn more about power take-off units and to determine if your commercial vehicle needs one, contact us online or visit one of our locations in Wisconsin.