Is it useful to have "Independent" PTO type?

[CobyRupert]

When buying my tractor, having an independent PTO was a must and one of the biggest factors in my selection. Not having to press in the clutch all the way, or half way, and remembering the difference, or have to worry about an (internal or external) overrunning PTO clutch so the mower doesn't push you into the tree, etc...

Granted, there is some advantage to pushing in one clutch pedal to stop the tractor and the PTO when the spit hits the fan, but then again there are time you don't want to stop the wheels, but just want to turn off the PTO and get out of the muck.

Also, I so glade I also have a lever that engages the PTO clutch as fast or slow as I chose, instead of a switch that slams it in. Why-or-why do they now have a switch? :banghead:

 

[Sawyer Rob]

I have different tractors with each of the above pto arrangements...

I like all three ways!! non live, live and independent...

It all depends on what I'm using the tractor for... For garden tilling I don't need "live" pto at all... In fact, I prefer NOT to have it!

For running a rotary cutter, I much prefer "live" pto, but I'm happy either way, independent or not.

Like I said, it all depends on what THAT tractor will be used for...

SR

 

[Z-Michigan]

Thank you Z-Michigan. The reason I was asking was because I saw the CK2610 HST selling for around 16k whereas the DK4510 Hydro Shuttle selling around 21k.
So, I wanted to find out if it is worth it spending 5k more on the DK4510 Hydro Shuttle. I will be happy to spend 5k more if I am getting that value in features.
Is 5k too much for the difference between the two?

The DK is a much more powerful tractor, especially in loader and 3pt lift capacity. The power and capacities are way at the upper end of what I would want for its frame size.

Reading your other posts I think you want HST transmission, which is not offered in the DKxx10 series, and I think you need a larger tractor than a CK. Meaning I think you basically are going to need an NX series to get the transmission and capabilities you want.

Do you have prior tractor experience? If not much, you may want to describe in more detail your tasks to make sure you're getting the right size of tractor. I bought too big for my first tractor and it was not beneficial. It is possible to have too large and powerful a tractor for your tasks.

 

[trctorfan17]

Having a clutch (as in the CK4010HST) can be confusing...especially if I am hiring some people to help me out

My list of tasks is short and simple, grading 3 acres that have been cleared from trees (moving 500 yards of dirt), moving stonewall, grading 600 feet long driveway, post hole digger for about 200 posts. Then regular maintenance and snow plowing.

May be I decide to sell it in several years, after finishing those small tasks. I will only work on those tasks only on weekends.

Buying provides convenience over renting.