Features
Chelsea 281 Series PowerShift (hydraulic) hot-shift PTO for 10-bolt automatic transmissions including Allison
Ductile iron bearing cap rated 117% stronger than gray iron, evolved from the 280 Series
O-ring sealing between housing and bearing cap reduces vibrational effects and improves clamp load
Clutch pack steel discs 80% thicker than the predecessor 280 Series for extended service life
Nine speed ratios including low and high speeds; continuous torque rating of 390 lb-ft (529 Nm)
Wet Spline Lubrication option provides 7 to 10 times greater shaft life; Electronic Overspeed Control (EOC) and SmartStart available
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)
- Output Power: 56+ HP (51+ kW)
- Shaft Power: 37 HP at 500 RPM / 74 HP at 1,000 RPM (28 kW at 500 RPM / 55 kW at 1,000 RPM)
- Speed Ratios: Nine ratios including low and high speeds
- Lubrication Options: Pressure Lube (P) or Wet Spline (W)
- Continuous Operation: Yes
- Output Types: SAE B Pump Flange, SAE C Pump Flange, ISO 7652 Pump Flange, Driveline
Additional Information

The 281 Series is an evolution of the Chelsea 280 Series PTO, designed for demanding applications including fire and rescue, truck cranes, pumper cleaners, and refuse vehicles. The Positive Stop feature for driveline outputs eliminates oil seal damage from coupling. SmartStart reduces shock load at start-up for compatible applications, and the Electronic Overspeed Control (EOC) system protects driven equipment from overspeed events. 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.
