Features
Hydraulic PowerShift (hot-shift) operation for use on 10-bolt automatic transmission apertures
Ductile iron bearing cap, 117% stronger than gray iron predecessor
O-ring sealing configuration between housing and bearing cap improves clamp load and resists vibrational effects
Enhanced clutch pack with steel discs 80% thicker than prior design to resist premature tooth wear
Nine speed ratios including low and high speeds; supports continuous operation
Wet Spline Lubrication option provides 7 to 10 times greater shaft life; SmartStart reduces shock load at start-up; Electronic Overspeed Control (EOC) protects driven equipment
Tech Specs
- Mounting Type: 10-Bolt aperture
- Shift Type: Hydraulic PowerShift (hot-shift)
- Compatible Transmission Type: Allison automatic transmissions
- Continuous Operation: Yes
- Series Continuous Torque Rating: 390 lb-ft (529 Nm) - verify actual rating on application pages
- Output Types Available in Series: SAE B pump flange, SAE C pump flange, ISO 7652 pump flange, driveline
- Speed Ratios: Nine (includes low and high)
- Lubrication Option: Wet Spline (W) or Pressure Lube (P)
- NMFC Code: 125820 - Hydraulic PTOs, Pumps, Motors, etc.
Additional Information

The 281 Series is the direct successor to Chelsea's top-selling 280 Series, with structural and sealing upgrades targeting the vibrational demands of modern engine designs. Markets served include fire and rescue, refuse collection, pumper cleaner, and truck crane. The series supports multiple output shaft configurations: Smart Start round shaft (1-1/4 in. with 5/16 in. key), 3/4 in. 11-tooth pump spline, SAE B 7/8 in. 13-tooth pump spline, SAE C 1-1/4 in. 14-tooth pump spline, DIN 5462 pump spline, 1410 companion flange, DIN 120 flange, and DIN 100 flange. Rotatable cast iron flanges reduce interference and pump clearance issues. A positive stop for driveline outputs eliminates oil seal damage from coupling. Parker Chelsea reference documents for this series include 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.
