Features
Hydraulic PowerShift (hot-shift) operation for 10-bolt automatic transmissions including Allison
Ductile iron bearing cap, 117% stronger than gray iron predecessor
O-ring seal between housing and bearing cap improves clamp load and resists vibration
Enhanced clutch pack with 80% thicker steel discs to reduce premature tooth wear
Nine speed ratios covering low- and high-speed output requirements
Wet Spline Lubrication option delivers 7 to 10 times greater shaft life; hose included
SmartStart reduces shock load at engagement; Electronic Overspeed Control (EOC) protects driven equipment
Rotatable cast iron flanges reduce pump clearance interference; Positive Stop for driveline outputs eliminates oil seal damage
Tech Specs
- Mounting: 10-Bolt aperture
- Shift Type: PowerShift (Hydraulic hot-shift)
- Compatible Transmissions: Allison automatic (10-bolt aperture)
- Series Continuous Torque: 390 lb-ft (529 Nm) - verify actual rating on application pages
- Speed Ratios: Nine ratios, including low and high
- Output Types: SAE B Pump Flange, SAE C Pump Flange, ISO 7652 Pump Flange, Driveline
- Lubrication: Wet Spline (W) option available
- Clutch Pack: 80% thicker steel discs vs. prior 281 predecessor
- Bearing Cap: Ductile iron, 117% stronger than gray iron
- Electronic Overspeed Control (EOC): Included
Additional Information

The 281 Series is built for demanding markets including fire and rescue, truck cranes, pumper cleaners, and refuse vehicles. Rotatable cast iron flanges reduce interference issues during pump mounting. The Positive Stop feature on driveline outputs prevents oil seal damage caused by coupling contact. SmartStart is available for applications where reducing engagement shock load is a priority, and Electronic Overspeed Control (EOC) guards downstream equipment against overspeed damage. Parker Chelsea publishes a dedicated parts list (HY25-2281-M1/US) and owner's manual covering the 267/281/288/871/878 Series for reference during installation or rebuild.
Parts Manual: Chelsea 281 Series PTO Parts Manual (PDF) — exploded views, item numbers and the full parts breakdown for this series.
