Features
Chelsea 281 Series hydraulic PowerShift (hot-shift) PTO
10-bolt mounting for Allison automatic transmissions
Ductile iron bearing cap rated 117% stronger than gray iron
Enhanced clutch pack with steel discs 80% thicker than the predecessor 280 Series
Nine speed ratios including low and high ranges
O-ring seal between housing and bearing cap improves clamp load and resists vibration
Rotatable cast-iron flanges reduce pump clearance interference
Wet Spline Lubrication option extends shaft life 7 to 10 times
SmartStart reduces start-up shock load; Electronic Overspeed Control (EOC) protects driven equipment
Tech Specs
- Mounting Type: 10-Bolt
- Shift Type: PowerShift (Hydraulic) Hot-Shift
- Compatible Transmission: Allison automatic transmissions
- Continuous Operation: Yes
- Speed Ratios: Nine (includes low and high speeds)
- Output Types: SAE B Pump Flange, SAE C Pump Flange, ISO 7652 Pump Flange, Driveline
- Lubrication Options: Pressure Lube (P) or Wet Spline (W)
- Bearing Cap Material: Ductile Iron
Additional Information

The 281 Series is the evolution of Chelsea's top-selling 280 Series, incorporating structural and sealing upgrades to address vibrational stresses from modern engine designs. Markets served include fire and rescue, truck cranes, pumper cleaners, and refuse vehicles. Reference documents: 281/288 Series Parts List (HY25-2281-M1/US) and the 267/281/288/871/878 Series Owner's Manual are available from Parker Chelsea for detailed application and installation data.
Parts Manual: Chelsea 281 Series PTO Parts Manual (PDF) — exploded views, item numbers and the full parts breakdown for this series.
