Features
Ductile Iron Bearing Cap: 117% stronger than gray iron for improved durability over the 280 Series predecessor
Enhanced Clutch Pack: steel discs increased 80% in thickness to resist premature tooth wear
Improved O-Ring Seal: sealing configuration between housing and bearing cap reduces vibrational effects and improves clamp load
Nine Speed Ratios: includes both low and high speed options
Wet Spline Lubrication Option: provides 7 to 10 times greater shaft life compared to standard spline lubrication
Electronic Overspeed Control (EOC): protects driven equipment; SmartStart reduces shock load at start-up for select applications
Tech Specs
- Mounting Type: 10-Bolt
- Shift Type: PowerShift (Hydraulic)
- Continuous Torque: 390 lb-ft (529 Nm) - verify actual rating on application pages
- Continuous Operation: Yes
- Transmission Compatibility: Allison and Caterpillar automatic transmissions (10-bolt aperture)
- Output Types: SAE B Pump Flange, SAE C Pump Flange, ISO 7652 Pump Flange, Driveline
- Output Shaft Options: SmartStart Round Shaft (1-1/4" - 5/16" Key), 3/4" - 11T Pump Spline, SAE B (7/8" - 13T) Pump Spline, SAE C (1-1/4" - 14T) Pump Spline, 1410 Companion Flange
- Speed Ratios: Nine (including low and high speed)
- Lubrication: Pressure Lube (P) or Wet Spline (W) option available
- Shaft Power: 37 HP at 500 RPM, 74 HP at 1000 RPM (28 kW at 500 RPM, 55 kW at 1000 RPM)
- Typical Markets: Fire and Rescue, Truck Cranes, Pumper Cleaner, Refuse
Additional Information

The 281 Series builds on the Chelsea 280 Series platform with structural and sealing upgrades targeting the vibration demands of modern engine designs. The Positive Stop feature on driveline outputs prevents oil seal damage during coupling. A hose is included with the unit. 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, available from Parker Chelsea.
Parts Manual: Chelsea 281 Series PTO Parts Manual (PDF) — exploded views, item numbers and the full parts breakdown for this series.
