Overriding Couplers and Slip Clutches

[rfawkes]

After just replacing power take off bearings in my tractor for hitting a rock which stopped my tiller, I started looking for something that would prevent this ever happening again. I see both clutches and couplers on sale at TSC, but I don't know how they work or how to attach them or which one I should use. Any help you can provide would be appreciated.

 

[Ozarker]

To prevent such damage if the tiller is stopped by a rock or root you need the slip clutch.

 

[dliston]

I've had this same basic question - I know what the slip clutch is/does, but what does the overriding coupler do?

Doug /forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif

 

[Tim_in_IA]

Don't they let the implement spin down gracefully when the engine slows abruptly?

 

[PineRidge]

Tim that exactly what they do. If you have a rotary cutter spinning at full RPMs and you shut down the PTO, instead of the rotary cutter transferring all that kinetic energy back into the now stopped PTO the overriding clutch allows the mower to stop slowly and without undue stress to the tractor.

 

[dliston]

Thanks, guys - I always know someone here will have the answer!

Doug /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

 

[rfawkes]

Thanks for the information. Now, how do you install the slip clutch?

 

[PineRidge]

Rfawkes typically a slip clutch is bolted to the gearbox (see my picture of a tiller) then the implement PTO shaft is attached to the slip clutch. If you are adding one most likely your original PTO shaft on the implement will need to be shortened somewhat.

 

[BrettW]

Do I need an overiding clutch for my finish mower? I have some ground level stumps that I nick a bit. I'd hate to think that it could somehow mess up my tractor

 

[Ozarker]

That is a decision you have to make. The bottom line is that if you hit something that stops the blade, something has to give. The blade, the gearbox, the shear pin, the PTO.......something will give. A slip clutch is designed to give in that situation to save other components.