Features
Ductile iron bearing cap rated 117% stronger than gray iron
O-ring sealing configuration between housing and bearing cap improves clamp load and resists vibrational effects
80% thicker steel discs in the clutch pack to resist premature tooth wear
Nine speed ratios including low and high speeds
Rotatable cast-iron flanges reduce pump clearance interference
Wet Spline Lubrication option provides 7 to 10 times greater shaft life
SmartStart feature reduces shock load at start-up for select applications
Electronic Overspeed Control (EOC) protects driven equipment
Tech Specs
- Mounting Type: 10-Bolt
- Shift Type: PowerShift (Hydraulic Hot-Shift)
- Transmission Compatibility: Allison automatic transmissions (10-bolt aperture)
- Continuous Torque: 390 lb-ft (529 Nm) - see application pages for actual ratings
- Intermittent Torque: 301 to 400 lb-ft (501+ Nm)
- Output Power: 56+ HP (51+ kW)
- Shaft Power: 37 HP at 500 RPM / 74 HP at 1000 RPM (28 kW at 500 RPM / 55 kW at 1000 RPM)
- Output Types: SAE B Pump Flange, SAE C Pump Flange, ISO 7652 Pump Flange, Driveline
- Output Shaft Options: SmartStart Round Shaft (1-1/4 in. with 5/16 in. key), 3/4 in. 11T Pump Spline, SAE B 7/8 in. 13T Pump Spline, SAE C 1-1/4 in. 14T Pump Spline, DIN 5462 Pump Spline, 1410 Companion Flange, DIN 120 Flange, DIN 100 Flange
- Lubrication: Pressure Lube or Wet Spline options
- Speed Ratios: Nine ratios including low and high speeds
- Continuous Operation: Yes
- Typical Markets: Fire and Rescue, Truck Cranes, Pumper Cleaner, Refuse
Additional Information

The Chelsea 281 Series is documented in the 281/288 Series Parts List (HY25-2281-M1/US) and the 267/281/288/871/878 Series Owner's Manual. Additional factory publications include the 281 Series Sales Literature and service notices PTO-PNI-292 covering the 281, 288, 871, and 878 Series. These documents cover assembly, service intervals, and application-specific torque ratings.
Parts manual and diagrams: Chelsea 281 Series PTO parts list with prices
Matched by full model number. Check the mounting, input gear and output against the unit you are replacing before you order. Look up any Chelsea, Muncie or Bezares number on our Muncie to Chelsea PTO cross reference.

