Engine Speed for PTO Engagement

[Birdman]

I have seen this discussed before, so I checked my owners manual. For my JD 5420 it says to throttle up to correct PTO speed 1700 rpm for 540E or 2400 rpm for standard 540 operation, and then to engage the PTO lever. I agree that engaging it at the lowest possible speed makes sense, but my book says do it differently. /forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif

 

[George2615]

I'm sure you can engage the PTO at a higher RPM. It may take a more gradual slower release foot on the clutch to get it up to speed. I prefer to engage at a lower engine RPM then once fully engaged bring up the RPM to meet the required 540 of the implement.

 

[R W]

On machines such as headers, balers, mowers, etc the PTO should be engaged smoothly at the correct operating speed (540RPM) and kept at this speed. Engine speed should be kept constant on these and many other PTO
operated machines.