Engaging MF-575 PTO under load

Krayol · Oct 9, 2004

I have a battered MF575 and have just bought my first PTO-driven device (a topper).

The PTO engages with nothing attached using a lever on the left hand side (Lift and back to engage; lift and forward to disengage). However, under load (when topper attached), it is impossible to engage: the gears just grind.

I've been engaging with no load and then stopping tractor, connecting load, then restarting but this obviously puts a strain on the starting system and is no fun for me!

I've also tried using the clutch but this doesn't seem to make any difference.

So...my questions:

How should it work? (Do I use clutch, etc?)

What do you think might be wrong? The tractor has been very abused by previous owners and I've done a lot of repairs, so siezed & rusted components are quite normal!

Many thanks!

Karl R

JerryG · Oct 9, 2004

Sounds like the pto clutch needs to be adjusted.

Krayol · Oct 10, 2004

Thanks Jerry,

That sounds sensible. I had come to the conclusion last night that the clutch was seized on, but it could just be an adjustment needed.

I'll see if I can trace the mechanisms off the PTO lever and the main clutch.

If there are any other suggestions, I'd be delighted to hear them!

Cheers

Karl R

CMunger · Oct 11, 2004

A MF 575 was a UK built tractor that was sold over there, but not here in the US. There could be a few that were shipped in. If that is a dual stage clutch in that tractor, that operates the ground drive and the PTO, the PTO disc could be frozen from non-use. There should be an inspection cover on the bottom of the bell housing you can remove to inspect the operation of the clutch. With the engine not running of course.
Chuck M

Krayol · Oct 11, 2004

Thanks Chuck,

I'll check for inspection covers! The PTO was certainly not used by the previous owner - he just used a loader (which is why the steering is so bad! /forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif) - it could well be seized.

I think that you are right about the model. It was a France or UK build - didn't realise that they were limited to europe distribution (you wouldn't believe how many russian tractors I see here!)

In any case, I now have a few pointers for the weekend.

Many thanks...Karl R

CMunger · Oct 12, 2004

Do you have Vapormatic Parts stores in your area? I knew some people that worked for them in the UK. Just interseted. They sell after market parts and carrie quite a bit for Massey. I have seen some of there books and the 575 was listed. They are owned by John Deere now.
Chuck M.

Ryno1 · Oct 12, 2004

Not sure if it will help but on my D17 the pto is easier to engage if the tractor is moving forward. Just rolling very slowly with the clutch in.

Krayol · Oct 15, 2004

Thanks for the additional help guys.

I'll try rolling it to see if it engages that way. I did find that if I pull the engage lever as I turn the key to start it, then it does engage, but it's still a bit of a strain on the starter.

Will look for vapormatic but I've not heard of the name locally. I did look for manuals before and the only one that I could find was the dealer one which was well over £100 (I guess about $200 ish) and they couldn't even be sure of getting one in for me!

Thanks again

Karl R

Krayol · Oct 18, 2004

Thanks to everyone for their help! All working now. The PTO clutch accessed through the underside of the gearbox needed adjusting.

PTO disengages now when clutch pressed all the way to the floor.

Cheers!