Features
10-Bolt mounting aperture for Allison and Caterpillar automatic transmissions
Hydraulic PowerShift (hot-shift) operation supports continuous-duty use
Ductile iron bearing cap, 117% stronger than gray iron predecessor
O-ring sealing between housing and bearing cap reduces vibrational effects and improves clamp load
Enhanced clutch pack with steel discs 80% thicker to resist premature tooth wear
Nine speed ratios including low and high speeds; Wet Spline Lubrication option provides 7-10x greater shaft life
SmartStart feature reduces shock load at start-up; Electronic Overspeed Control (EOC) protects driven equipment
Tech Specs
- Mounting Type: 10-Bolt
- Shift Type: PowerShift (Hydraulic) - Hot Shift
- Continuous Operation: Yes
- Transmission Compatibility: Allison and Caterpillar automatic transmissions
- Series Continuous Torque Rating: 390 lb-ft (529 Nm) - check application pages for actual torque ratings
- Output Types Available: SAE B Pump Flange, SAE C Pump Flange, ISO 7652 Pump Flange, Driveline
- Lubricant Options: Pressure Lube or Wet Spline
- Speed Ratios: Nine (including low and high speeds)
- Series Output Power: 56+ HP (51+ kW)
- Series Shaft Power: 37 HP at 500 RPM / 74 HP at 1,000 RPM
Additional Information

The Chelsea 281 Series is designed for demanding markets including Fire and Rescue, Refuse, Truck Cranes, and Pumper Cleaner applications. Rotatable cast-iron flanges reduce interference issues with pump clearance, and the Positive Stop for driveline outputs eliminates oil seal damage from coupling. Relevant Parker Chelsea 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.
