This “Checklist” is primarily intended for usage by farm implement designers. It provides safety information/reminders important for the design, selection, labeling and testing of PTO drivelines.

NOTE: This manual may be downloaded and reproduced for non-commercial usage.

Download the Driveline Design and Safety Checklist .doc (149K)

DRIVELINE SPECIFICATIONS

The first step is to specify and test the driveline to operate properly under expected field conditions.

	Specify and test the proper size joints and telescoping members based upon the power required by the implement, speed of rotation, joint angles, joint phasing, shock loads and expected life.
	Design and test the hitch geometry to prevent the driveline from: Extending beyond the recommended maximum length. Bottoming out. Reaching a position which would allow the joints to lock. Exceeding the maximum allowable angle for constant velocity (CV) joints.
	Provide a proper operational clearance zone for the driveline to avoid damage to the driveline or guard components. Some common areas of interference are: Three point linkage Extended or eye loop hitch pins Hydraulic hoses Hitch jacks Tractor tires Tractor drawbar clevice / hammerstrap hitch Implement tongue Implement frame members
	Specify and test telescoping members to allow the lowest possible thrust loads, considering the expected working conditions.
	Specify and test torque limiters to control excessive shock loads.
	Where necessary, specify and test overrunning clutches to prevent inertial loads from overpowering the tractor.
	Provide a support location to secure the driveline on the implement when it is disconnected from the tractor to prevent damage during storage or transportation of PTO shafts.
	On stationary implements provide a means to limit the extension of the driveline.