Dusty PTO Shaft

[Clt1bkc]

Bush hogged for the first time last Saturday in my new tractor. The Rotary cutter that connects onto the PTO when I was done was dirty and dusty. Both mower and PTO where they connect.
What do you normally do after cutting to clean these? I did clean and blow air on my radiator screen on the tractor.
Thanks

 

[Bmyers]

I use my DeWalt blower and get the grass clippings off and the dust.

I use WD-40 Specialist Dirt & Dust Resistant Dry Lube PTFE Spray on the shaft on the tractor and the shaft of the PTO when I unhook it. It has worked well for me and doesn't seem to attract the dirt like grease did.

On the flip side, my dad doesn't do anything and says it is a tractor and supposed to be dirty.

 

[Palmettokat]

Normally the plastic sleeve keeps the universal joints rather clean. If there is a build up of grease on them from over greasing or such they will hold dust and other debris. Pressure washer can wash grease or other lubrications from a joint so use one carefully but a light wash or blowing with even a leaf blower should be all needed. Especially if the mower is new check all the bolts to be sure all are tight, nothing bent and the blades look fine. I would also check the oil in the gearbox as with anything new a seal or anything could have been installed where it leaked or gear box was not filled. A good time to be sure to clean the grease fittings and grease the universal joints but normally they need only a few pumps on a grease gun. You don't want to leave gobs on grease on it. If you have gobs of grease there wipe it off. If sitting on the dirt outside (I try not to leave one on the right on the ground) be sure the pto shaft is tied up and grease the inside of the shaft that slides on the tractor's pto shaft. Sure will appreciate that when you go to hook back up. If you have a pto shaft protector for your tractor is good to keep it on there when not using it and keep a light coat of grease on the tractor's pto shaft also.

You sound like a proud and careful owner. Take care of your implements and they will serve you well and seldom break down in the field.

 

[Roadworthy]

You clean your tractor? Really? I'll hose down the mowing deck at season end to wash off accumulated grass before winter but that's about it.

 

[SidecarFlip]

I use my DeWalt blower and get the grass clippings off and the dust.

I use WD-40 Specialist Dirt & Dust Resistant Dry Lube PTFE Spray on the shaft on the tractor and the shaft of the PTO when I unhook it. It has worked well for me and doesn't seem to attract the dirt like grease did.

On the flip side, my dad doesn't do anything and says it is a tractor and supposed to be dirty.

Big difference between working dirt and outright filth. Mine get dirty, never filthy. I use a blow gun to dust mine off after working them. get washed about 2 times a year.

 

[PoTreeBoy]

Bush hogged for the first time last Saturday in my new tractor. The Rotary cutter that connects onto the PTO when I was done was dirty and dusty. Both mower and PTO where they connect.
What do you normally do after cutting to clean these? I did clean and blow air on my radiator screen on the tractor.
Thanks

I don't oil or grease the PTO shaft - it just attracts dust and dirt. Unwind any stalks or long grass before it works its way into the seal. And put the cap over it before pulling a plow/blade/pond scoop etc. or you'll force dirt into the seal. (Voice of experience)

 

[Palmettokat]

I don't oil or grease the PTO shaft - it just attracts dust and dirt. Unwind any stalks or long grass before it works its way into the seal. And put the cap over it before pulling a plow/blade/pond scoop etc. or you'll force dirt into the seal. (Voice of experience)

Do you mean the shaft where it can slip inside each other or the universal joints? If you are not grease the universal joints you will find they are hard and to replace. Believe you are suppose to great the shaft where it slides togehter. I don't do it often but think you are suppose to.

 

[PoTreeBoy]

Do you mean the shaft where it can slip inside each other or the universal joints? If you are not grease the universal joints you will find they are hard and to replace. Believe you are suppose to great the shaft where it slides togehter. I don't do it often but think you are suppose to.

I was referring to the spline shaft on the tractor. The u-joints and slip joint on the cutter should be greased regularly, daily for me. Before the safety sleeves, our cutter had a zerk on the slip joint. But now it has to be slid out and greased on the inner shaft surface.