Features
Ductile Iron Bearing Cap - 117% stronger than gray iron, evolved from the 280 Series
O-ring sealing configuration between housing and bearing cap reduces vibrational effects and improves clamp load
Enhanced Clutch Pack - steel discs are 80% thicker to resist premature tooth wear
Nine speed ratios including low and high speed ranges
Positive Stop for driveline outputs eliminates oil seal damage from coupling
Electronic Overspeed Control (EOC) protects driven equipment; SmartStart option reduces shock load at start-up
Tech Specs
- Mounting Type: 10-Bolt aperture
- Shift Type: PowerShift (Hydraulic, hot-shift)
- Transmission Compatibility: Allison and Caterpillar automatic transmissions
- Continuous Operation: Yes
- Series Continuous Torque Rating: 390 lb-ft (529 Nm) - check application pages for actual rating
- Series Intermittent Torque Range: 301 to 400 lb-ft (501+ Nm)
- Output Power: 51+ kW / 56+ HP
- Shaft Power: 37 HP at 500 RPM; 74 HP at 1000 RPM
- Lubricant Options: Pressure Lube or Wet Spline
- Output Types: SAE B Pump Flange, SAE C Pump Flange, ISO 7652 Pump Flange, Driveline
- Speed Ratios: Nine (including low and high)
Additional Information

The 281 Series is designed for demanding markets including fire and rescue, truck cranes, pumper cleaner, and refuse vehicles. The Wet Spline Lubrication option provides 7 to 10 times greater shaft life compared to standard spline configurations. Hose is included with the assembly. Supporting documentation includes the 281/288 Series Parts List (HY25-2281-M1/US) and the 267/281/288/871/878 Series Owner's Manual.
Parts Manual: Chelsea 281 Series PTO Parts Manual (PDF) — exploded views, item numbers and the full parts breakdown for this series.
