Totally agree! I don’t use my chains for the reasons you stated - there’s more of a hazard from a chain that breaks loose spinning around than a PTO shaft cover.
makes perfect sense, being a new tractor owner I was complete amazed that someone thought chaining the sleeve so it is constantly being tortured by the spinning shaft was in any way a good idea. never considered hooking them up on my new rig....now I feel like I'm not the only sensible one about this "false sense of security"
Hi Jimmy! Well you are not alone. Most of the other comments agree with us. Their are a few folks that favor chains and a few on the fence about it. Thanks for watching!
I concur. I remember standing at a passenger train station that also shared the line with fast freight. My friend warned me to stand back. A band from the lumber cars could snap loose and cut you in half so quick you'd never have time to pick up your armadillo.
Excellent video. I agree. When I hook up the PTO, I ensure the cover spins freely and keep it lubricated. I have never used a chain on the cover and never will. I also removed the bell covers from the implement gear box that seems to have no purpose other than making it difficult to get to the grease fittings, and I never mess with a spinning PTO. I grew up on a farm and operated many PTO operated implements from a very young age and was taught to respect anything spinning. Big brother cannot protect you from everything, sometimes common sense and person accountability comes into play. I wonder how many lives have been saved by the tag on the hair drier cord warning us not to use it in the shower?
Thank you, Jake! And you’re right about the gear box bell covers too. The stock one suck, but I still think they a good safety feature. I’ve designed a much better one that I will make to replace the factory one and will have a video on it before long. Thanks for watching!
I agree fully. Through many years I have used the chains regularly but have experienced them coming loose multiple times. I never had any injuries or damages but realized how easily things could have gone very bad. I had noticed on newer implements I have acquired in the last couple of years some no longer came with chains and when I asked about this I was told that manufacturer's had experienced some lawsuits over loose chains and had decided to discontinue providing them but had not publicized the change. Maybe that is true, maybe it is not. But it makes sense to me. I no longer use these safety chains with any of my implements.
Hi Raymond! I’ve heard the same stories about lawsuits. My bush hog didn’t come with chains, In fact, the chains for my wood chipper stayed in their original packaging until I shot this video. Thanks for watching!
While researching a new PTO shield replacement, it was interesting that the U.S. is one of the few countries that doesn’t mandate the use of these chains.
I go back to when most tractors only had belt pulleys. Don't remember shields at all on the early PTO shafts. Then they had metal telescoping tunnels with open bottoms, one end fastened to the implement and the other had a spring latch that clipped to the slot in the tractor PTO shield to cover the shaft. Next came the tubes around the shaft except they were made of metal. No chain with those. When the plastic ones came out, it took me a number of years to figure out what the little chains with the snaps on each end were for. Never have used them. Never got near a running PTO either. If your tractor won't start after you shut it off to hook something up or make repairs you need to fix the tractor first.
I don’t go that far back, but I do remember the days growing up when there were no guards on PTO shafts and we knew to stay the hell away from them when they were spinning. Thanks for watching!
I agree no chains needed, I have never used them, just for the main fact that they are a pain to prepare every time you use your implements. And the fact that not using them is necessarily a Hazard. Great explanation.
Learned me something new today. I’m inclined to agree with you. (And did not know there are serviceable bearings inside the cover) Great information all the way around! 👍 pun intended…
Wowzers... that's brilliant! No chains fer me from now on!! Plus, I've seen covers melt from all the excess friction - if they ain't just perfectly lubricated. Thank you for this important tip, never thought about this before watch'n your video. Well done!!
This is a new thought for me . Sounds reasonable as the sleeve bearing will eventually wear out and break the chain. Also a person needs to be alert and keep clear of anything spinning at all times ,chain or no chains. When I bought my tractor I was thinking those chains looked like a bad idea. Now that I’ve seen your video I know why.
Hi Joe! That’s right. The sleeve bearings will last forever if you don’t use the chains and they’ll be ready to spin if something contacts the shroud as long as you grease them regularly. Thanks for watching!
The PTO safety equipment. Growing up on a farm, I remember running loads of silage in John Deere Chuck Wagons to the blowers at the harvestors. Most of these PTO shafts had metal guards, if guards at all. None of them had chains installed. In addition, you had a blower tractor with PTO shaft, and open gears, chains, and blower paddles. All of the controls were in arms reach of something that could tear you apart. I see the point of having chains, I understand why you don't use them (and agree with your analysis). No amount of guarding, shielding, and stickers are going to prevent all accidents, so you also need to just use caution when working around any piece of machinery. Great Episode. Take Care, Jason
I never use the chains either Martin and pretty much for the same reasons. PTO shafts are nothing to be taken lightly. A friend of mine was workin g for a local farmer (also a friend of mine) while he was in high school. Part of his chore routine on that farm was grinding feed with a PTO driven mixer mill pulled behind the tractor. This tractor happened to be a big Farmall with way more than enough power to run the mixer mill. One of these 2 guys had removed the protective guard for the PTO from the tractor. My friend doin g the chores tried to climb over the PTO shaft while it was running and his loose clothing got caught by the end of the spring loaded pin that locks the PTO shaft to the tractor. Seconds later he had his leg all but completely separated from his body and he had to be life flighted to MAYO for emergency surgery. He had numerous surgeries on that leg and his knee, and over two years of physical therapy. The farmer that he was working for was hit by a loaded semi while hauling grain and also had multiple surgeries and a couple years of physical therapy. The father of another close friend of mine was killed while we were in junior high school. He was hurrying chores so that they could go to a funeral and got tangled up in the PTO stepping across it while it was running. The family found him dead when he failed to show up to get ready for the funeral. I say all of this to point out that there are things that you just don't take chances with. Spinning PTO shafts are near the very top of that list. My Dad's rule was "DON'T EVER DO IT"!
Hey, Martin. My Land Pride finish mower did not come with chains. My Woodland Mills wood chipper did, but they broke free and started spinning as you demonstrated (so I took them off). I feel the same way - the sleeve has so little resistance that it's safe to not use chains. I do want one of those remote control tractors, haha. Another great job! -Ed
Hi Ed! Your experience with chains is exactly why many manufacturers quit including them with PTO shafts. I’m not a liberty to discuss the remote control tractor technology at this time. LOL! Thanks for watching!
Agree completely! I let mine spin and spin and spin. Much like the "20 fans a-turning". Several are over 10 years old showing little to no wear! Chains rusted out long ago!
Well considering I haven't even had the plastic cover on the chain was never an issue!! I have looked at getting a cover but I can't see the advantage of the chains as you demonstrated by stopping the spinning cover by hand, though I wouldn't recommend doing that either. subbed.
Hey Martin! When I bought my finish mower I asked my dealer about the chains he mentioned the pros and cons as you did. I took my chains off. Good information. Later
Another well presented video, Martin. My jury is still out on using the chains but you have certainly elevated my sensitivity to PTO safety. BTW, I read through all the comments. You attract some smart, thoughtful, civil, and articulate subscribers
How's she goin'? My guard cover chain broke the first time I was using the PTO shaft. Then every spring I reconnect or repair the chain and start over. I have yet to make a full season with the chain intact, so I guess I'm on your side on this Martin. A spinning PTO shaft guard is not the worst thing that can happen. Thanks for posting and take care!!
Hi Mike! Yep, you've just made the case against chains yourself. As I showed, a spinning guard is harmless and, in my opinion, more satisfying to look at than a stationary one. Thanks for watching!
My thoughts exactly. I was concerned initially when my rotary cutter didn't come with chains... but then I got to thinking about it. Let's be honest if someone gets close enough to touch a PTO driveshaft on a rotary cutter you've got bigger fish to fry.
Sounds logical to me. My other pto shaft doesn't even have a safety cover and shroud, it's Old school. I probably should update that one. But, I definitely see your points on why not to use them.
Good points. I only had one PTO with a shroud and it came from the factory on a Bush Hog brand finish cut mower with no chains. I’ve never seen the need for them. So I’m with ya on this one buddy !! Btw… the Missus was looking over my shoulder and for some reason she said she was going to subscribe to your channel now… Musta been a hidden message in there somewhere. LOL. Good one Martin. I liked it.
Our snowblower has a plastic shroud, but didn't come with chains nor do I recall seeing any place to connect a chain. So I don't think this design is meant to continually spin independent of the PTO shaft. I haven't gotten close enough to test how easily the shroud stops spinning in contact and while I am curious, I don't think I am going to test it anytime soon. I prefer a respectful distance between me and the PTO shaft.
Hi Brian! Yes, keeping your distance fro the PTO shaft while it it operating is the best policy. The closest I’ve been to a spinning PTO shaft was shooting that demo of how easily the shroud will stop. Now that the video is done, I won’t be doing it again. Thanks for watching!
That’s certainly up to you. Remember, I am explaining why I don’t use chains since people have asked. I am NOT saying anyone else should. Thanks for watching!
I don't use the chains, either. But, I did have the cover get a groove in it from spinning against the trailer hitch. I think the brush hog dipped too low when I went over a hill.
Good consideration Martin! I agree with your thinking. By spinning the guard constantly, that is a risk it fails sooner. But yet, it will fail if not maintained properly. The same will apply if no chain is used, the only difference, the guard might be harmful. Anyways, that small chain and ESPECIALLY the small plastic loop on the guard is going to fail whenever the guard does not spin freely. With a chain, you will know your guard is failing to spin freely if that happens. Without a chain, you have a clear visual sign of the danger... Do I sound hesitant??? Lol! Thanks!
Hi Joe! I let the guard spin freely so that there is virtually no wear on the sleeve bearings. Thus the chances of it seizing up is extremely low. And I make sure the guards are greased and rotating freely before each use. If the guard is chained, the sleeve bearings are guaranteed to fail much sooner. That’s my reasoning in a nut shell. Thanks for watching!
Talk about safety When I was little, the thrashing machine came to do the stalks of wheat and was powered by a long belt to the stationary tractor. There was no safety devices with that setup. I used to get a lot of warnings about staying far away. Huge straw stacks, great time in my life.
I have used chains for many years and have never had one break or come off. You can get away without them if you regularly grease, check, and generally maintain your sleeves, but how many people will do that?? If they’re not maintained, the sleeves seize to the shaft and then you have a major safety hazard that is as bad as no sleeve at all. I know someone who was caught in a seized sleeve and although he still has his arm, he has reduced mobility. Here’s a bit of simple logic: if a safety chain breaks or becomes detached, it is fully visible and will no doubt make lots of noise as it whacks things while spinning. Anyone with eyes and ears isn’t going to go anywhere near it without shutting down the PTO. However, if a safely sleeve bearing is seized from lack of grease and maintenance, you cannot see or hear that it is seized, so it is a far more dangerous hazard than a loose or broken chain. I respect everyone’s personal decision, but this is truly a no-brainer for me. I’ll continue to use chains on all of my pto shafts.
Hi Dave! You've made the best case I've heard yet for chains. I actually do maintain my PTO shafts and since the bearings are very unlikely to seize because they don't get hardly any wear on them, I won't use chains. Still, hats off to you for a solid argument for chains! Thanks for watching and giving your opinion!
Thanks for the feedback, Martin! As mentioned , I totally respect everyone’s choice but I know in my case I’d very likely forget to grease and test the sleeves regularly. I do a fair bit of bush hogging and no doubt after a year or two, those sleeve bushings would be caked with dirt, seeds, and all forms of organic guck, and could become one with the shaft. On a totally different topic, and while I believe I’ve said this before, your series on the carry all build was extremely well done. I followed that pattern to make my own with only a few minor mods to accommodate some specific requirements and it works great! I have considered buying a Big Tool Rack but the carry all does everything I need. Thanks for the great videos and good luck for the continued growth of your channel!
It’s a brilliant device but pricey. I had built my carryall before it came on the market so I don’t see the need. Also, I’m pretty sure it doesn’t need PTO chains. 🙂 Thanks for watching!
I watched a episode on ask tractor Mike and a lot of manufacturers stopped putting safety chains on equipment. I think it had to do with lawsuit with the chains.
I go to say im guilty of having some brand new shafts with the chains still in the packaging taped to the cover, maybe ill make it a point to ditch the chains, could easily repurpose them to hold pins somewhere where you dont want to lose them!
I'm gonna go one better... no PTO cover at all. Oh my. My used rotary cutter didn't come with one. Easy safety thing I do is don't get anywhere near it when it's engaged. I couldn't if I tried with Kubota safety switch. Maybe one day I will buy one .just to make me feel better. Thanks good points and video
To each their own, Rudy! I wouldn’t go that far simply because of the risk of the shaft snagging vines going up trees that could yank down limbs and such on you. Or catching on some old barbed wire hidden in the brush. I’m all for a PTO cover, just not the chains. Thanks for watching!
Interesting. I guess my question is: How did you know you could touch an UNchained pto shaft cover and that it would stop like that? I see your point, but my concern would be someone not knowing whether the cover was, or was not, greased properly and then get into trouble by thinking it was one way (or the other) and then finding out the hard way that it didn't behave like they expected. (Hopefully that sentence made sense!) :) Bottom line is, like others have said: Stay away from the PTO shaft!
I knew because (1) I maintain the shafts and covers and (2) a small diameter plastic sleeve rotating at only 540 RPM does not have much inertia. I would never assume anyone else's PTO shafts are maintained and normally I stay as far away from spinning machinery as possible. This demo being an exception to answer a frequently asked question. Thanks for watching!
All this messing around with shields, chains, and fussy PTO shafts is proof that implements should be hydraulically powered. You put a hydraulic pump at the stub shaft, a hydraulic hose after that, and a hydraulic motor at the implement. Hoses are flexible and never spin, and they transfer plenty of power.
Good point, Shandor. I’ve seen a few implements that are hydraulic pump powered like 3-point log splitters and 3-point backhoes that necessarily need hydraulic power, but I suspect cost is the reason other implements aren’t hydraulicly powered. Thanks for watching!
As I see it, if the cover bearing seizes, it can cause a major safety issue. That unlikely potential danger seems worse without chains than with them. As you demonstrate, the chains can whip around but they have very little torque since as you also demonstrate it takes very little force to stop the sleeve and chain. I think one could create arguments for both sides of this one but what's most important to me is just thinking about the dangers and being aware of the potential hazards of however you choose to operate your equipment.
Hi Don! If the cover bearings seize, they will rip the chains loose and they will be spinning with the full force of the PTO shaft. If the cover is allowed to spin with the shaft, it’s not likely to wear or overheat the bearings enough for them to seize in the first place, especially when maintained and inspected periodically. I agree with you the most important thing is being aware of the hazard machinery and give it the full respect - and distance - warranted. Thanks for watching!
My Bush Hog is so old it doesn't have a shroud. I think I will notice anyone standing on it and politely suggest that they aren't in a safe location. I'm going to mow 1.5 acres with it tomorrow. It's that time of year. I'll report back if someone jumps on there and rips their legs off.
i agree with you. Think its just another way a engineer came up with a way to make more money. He probably doesn't even know how to operate a tractor. lol
So why run a shield? It is minimally safer with a spinning shield as a bare spinning shaft. Folks watch your PTO power implement, or listen for the noise, it should not be hard to figure out if the implement is working. If you have a slip clutch, one more item to receive visual feedback.
Thanks for watching and subscribing, Erik! It’s the subliminal messages I put in my videos. It works on some people and apparently you are one of them. Just kidding! 😀
Without doubt always use the safety chain, if the guard fails and spins with the shaft you will not know until you are entangled, do a search on PTO accidents than decide. A friend of mine lost his arm in a baler incident. Use the guard as designed please. I follow several you tube farmers, I am always surprised of how many unprotected PTOs there are especially on static machinery such as augers. I accept your PTO is well maintained, but it is not worth the risk.
Did you friend lose his arm because there was no chain installed? Number one rule is to secure the PTO before approaching the baler. There is no maintenance that should be performed on a running baler.
I guess that all of my implements are so old, none of them came with guards or previous owners removed them. I just try to abide by the eleventh commandment ( and the other ten as well ). I have hunted and hunted for your video demo on how to make your tractor work by remote control, that was a goodern. Thanks for sharing
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Totally agree! I don’t use my chains for the reasons you stated - there’s more of a hazard from a chain that breaks loose spinning around than a PTO shaft cover.
makes perfect sense, being a new tractor owner I was complete amazed that someone thought chaining the sleeve so it is constantly being tortured by the spinning shaft was in any way a good idea. never considered hooking them up on my new rig....now I feel like I'm not the only sensible one about this "false sense of security"
Hi Jimmy! Well you are not alone. Most of the other comments agree with us. Their are a few folks that favor chains and a few on the fence about it. Thanks for watching!
Good episode Sir. While I currently don't have any PTO driven equipment yet, I do thank you and other commenters for the tips.
Thanks, Bob!
Interesting perspective. Worth looking into.
I concur. I remember standing at a passenger train station that also shared the line with fast freight. My friend warned me to stand back. A band from the lumber cars could snap loose and cut you in half so quick you'd never have time to pick up your armadillo.
Yikes! That's a scary thought, Bill! Thanks for watching!
@@DIYMyWay Yup, good day sir.
Excellent video. I agree. When I hook up the PTO, I ensure the cover spins freely and keep it lubricated. I have never used a chain on the cover and never will. I also removed the bell covers from the implement gear box that seems to have no purpose other than making it difficult to get to the grease fittings, and I never mess with a spinning PTO. I grew up on a farm and operated many PTO operated implements from a very young age and was taught to respect anything spinning. Big brother cannot protect you from everything, sometimes common sense and person accountability comes into play. I wonder how many lives have been saved by the tag on the hair drier cord warning us not to use it in the shower?
Thank you, Jake! And you’re right about the gear box bell covers too. The stock one suck, but I still think they a good safety feature. I’ve designed a much better one that I will make to replace the factory one and will have a video on it before long. Thanks for watching!
Excellent presentation
Glad you liked it! Thanks for watching!
I agree fully. Through many years I have used the chains regularly but have experienced them coming loose multiple times. I never had any injuries or damages but realized how easily things could have gone very bad. I had noticed on newer implements I have acquired in the last couple of years some no longer came with chains and when I asked about this I was told that manufacturer's had experienced some lawsuits over loose chains and had decided to discontinue providing them but had not publicized the change. Maybe that is true, maybe it is not. But it makes sense to me. I no longer use these safety chains with any of my implements.
Hi Raymond! I’ve heard the same stories about lawsuits. My bush hog didn’t come with chains, In fact, the chains for my wood chipper stayed in their original packaging until I shot this video. Thanks for watching!
While researching a new PTO shield replacement, it was interesting that the U.S. is one of the few countries that doesn’t mandate the use of these chains.
So glad the U.S. doesn’t! I probably still wouldn’t use them as long as I was on my own property. Thanks for watching!
I go back to when most tractors only had belt pulleys. Don't remember shields at all on the early PTO shafts. Then they had metal telescoping tunnels with open bottoms, one end fastened to the implement and the other had a spring latch that clipped to the slot in the tractor PTO shield to cover the shaft. Next came the tubes around the shaft except they were made of metal. No chain with those. When the plastic ones came out, it took me a number of years to figure out what the little chains with the snaps on each end were for. Never have used them. Never got near a running PTO either. If your tractor won't start after you shut it off to hook something up or make repairs you need to fix the tractor first.
I don’t go that far back, but I do remember the days growing up when there were no guards on PTO shafts and we knew to stay the hell away from them when they were spinning. Thanks for watching!
Very good point sir. I feel the same way. Like your videos!
I agree no chains needed, I have never used them, just for the main fact that they are a pain to prepare every time you use your implements. And the fact that not using them is necessarily a Hazard. Great explanation.
Learned me something new today. I’m inclined to agree with you. (And did not know there are serviceable bearings inside the cover) Great information all the way around! 👍 pun intended…
Glad you found the video useful! Thanks for watching!
Wowzers... that's brilliant! No chains fer me from now on!! Plus, I've seen covers melt from all the excess friction - if they ain't just perfectly lubricated. Thank you for this important tip, never thought about this before watch'n your video. Well done!!
Thank you, Bubba! Yes, they will last MUCH longer if allowed to spin freely.
Bush Hog brand, company says they do not install safety chains on their shields anymore! Purchased a new rotary tiller recently, no chains.
Hmmm... Clearly there’s a conspiracy going on! LOL! Thanks for watching!
This is a new thought for me . Sounds reasonable as the sleeve bearing will eventually wear out and break the chain. Also a person needs to be alert and keep clear of anything spinning at all times ,chain or no chains. When I bought my tractor I was thinking those chains looked like a bad idea. Now that I’ve seen your video I know why.
Hi Joe! That’s right. The sleeve bearings will last forever if you don’t use the chains and they’ll be ready to spin if something contacts the shroud as long as you grease them regularly. Thanks for watching!
The PTO safety equipment. Growing up on a farm, I remember running loads of silage in John Deere Chuck Wagons to the blowers at the harvestors. Most of these PTO shafts had metal guards, if guards at all. None of them had chains installed. In addition, you had a blower tractor with PTO shaft, and open gears, chains, and blower paddles. All of the controls were in arms reach of something that could tear you apart. I see the point of having chains, I understand why you don't use them (and agree with your analysis). No amount of guarding, shielding, and stickers are going to prevent all accidents, so you also need to just use caution when working around any piece of machinery. Great Episode. Take Care, Jason
Hi Jason! Yes, the best policy is to keep a safe distance from all spinning machinery. Thanks for watching!
I never use the chains either Martin and pretty much for the same reasons. PTO shafts are nothing to be taken lightly. A friend of mine was workin g for a local farmer (also a friend of mine) while he was in high school. Part of his chore routine on that farm was grinding feed with a PTO driven mixer mill pulled behind the tractor. This tractor happened to be a big Farmall with way more than enough power to run the mixer mill. One of these 2 guys had removed the protective guard for the PTO from the tractor. My friend doin g the chores tried to climb over the PTO shaft while it was running and his loose clothing got caught by the end of the spring loaded pin that locks the PTO shaft to the tractor. Seconds later he had his leg all but completely separated from his body and he had to be life flighted to MAYO for emergency surgery. He had numerous surgeries on that leg and his knee, and over two years of physical therapy. The farmer that he was working for was hit by a loaded semi while hauling grain and also had multiple surgeries and a couple years of physical therapy.
The father of another close friend of mine was killed while we were in junior high school. He was hurrying chores so that they could go to a funeral and got tangled up in the PTO stepping across it while it was running. The family found him dead when he failed to show up to get ready for the funeral.
I say all of this to point out that there are things that you just don't take chances with. Spinning PTO shafts are near the very top of that list. My Dad's rule was "DON'T EVER DO IT"!
Wow, those are some sad stories, Gary! And all too common. The Eleventh Commandment: “Thou shalt stay the hell away from spinning PTO shafts.”
@@DIYMyWay , absolutely. It just simply IS not worth the risk. Your life can change in an instant... or end in an instant.
Hey, Martin. My Land Pride finish mower did not come with chains. My Woodland Mills wood chipper did, but they broke free and started spinning as you demonstrated (so I took them off). I feel the same way - the sleeve has so little resistance that it's safe to not use chains. I do want one of those remote control tractors, haha. Another great job! -Ed
Hi Ed! Your experience with chains is exactly why many manufacturers quit including them with PTO shafts. I’m not a liberty to discuss the remote control tractor technology at this time. LOL! Thanks for watching!
Makes too much sense for good ole backwoods logic! I’m with ya!!😁👍🏻
😀😀👍👍
Agree completely! I let mine spin and spin and spin. Much like the "20 fans a-turning". Several are over 10 years old showing little to no wear! Chains rusted out long ago!
Great minds think alike, Dwayne! Thanks for watching!
Loved the interruption for the subliminal message Martin.
Glad you did, Gary! Thanks for watching!
Well considering I haven't even had the plastic cover on the chain was never an issue!!
I have looked at getting a cover but I can't see the advantage of the chains as you demonstrated by stopping the spinning cover by hand, though I wouldn't recommend doing that either.
subbed.
Hey Martin! When I bought my finish mower I asked my dealer about the chains he mentioned the pros and cons as you did. I took my chains off. Good information. Later
Hey Mech! Yes, it seems that unchained is all the rage now, which I think is a good thing. Thanks for watching!
Very good video Martin! I don't run chains for pretty much the same reasons as you. Glad you did this video. Have a good one Martin! See ya!
Thanks, John! Glad you’re a member of the no chain gang!
Gid day Martin. Interesting perspective. I'll have to think about that. Thanks for sharing - some good points there.. Cheers!
Another well presented video, Martin. My jury is still out on using the chains but you have certainly elevated my sensitivity to PTO safety.
BTW, I read through all the comments. You attract some smart, thoughtful, civil, and articulate subscribers
Thank you, Larry! Yes, I’ve been pleased with the dialog on the topic from smart, thoughtful and articulate subscribers like you! Thanks for watching!
When my Kubota tractor was delivered, the dealer did not have any chains on the PTO shields for the reasons you described.
I’m not at all surprised, Lonnie. If heard many others say the same thing. Thanks for watching!
I totally agree. Just bought a new brush hog, first thing I did was remove the chains.
Hi Graig! Congrats on the new brush hog! Thanks for watching!
How's she goin'? My guard cover chain broke the first time I was using the PTO shaft. Then every spring I reconnect or repair the chain and start over. I have yet to make a full season with the chain intact, so I guess I'm on your side on this Martin. A spinning PTO shaft guard is not the worst thing that can happen. Thanks for posting and take care!!
Hi Mike! Yep, you've just made the case against chains yourself. As I showed, a spinning guard is harmless and, in my opinion, more satisfying to look at than a stationary one. Thanks for watching!
Thank you for another great video! I am going to clean and lubricate my PTO shaft today--and I think I'll remove those chains.
Glad it was helpful to you, Bianca! Thanks for watching!
@@DIYMyWay I got it done with no issues. Next up is to do some maintenance on my flail mower. Thanks again!
Interesting. Makes sense now that you show me it. Thank you, sir!
Your welcome! Thanks for watching!
My thoughts exactly. I was concerned initially when my rotary cutter didn't come with chains... but then I got to thinking about it.
Let's be honest if someone gets close enough to touch a PTO driveshaft on a rotary cutter you've got bigger fish to fry.
Exactly right, Thomas! There is a reason I didn't do the demo with the rotary cutter and you nailed it! Thanks for watching!
Sounds logical to me. My other pto shaft doesn't even have a safety cover and shroud, it's Old school. I probably should update that one. But, I definitely see your points on why not to use them.
Good points. I only had one PTO with a shroud and it came from the factory on a Bush Hog brand finish cut mower with no chains. I’ve never seen the need for them. So I’m with ya on this one buddy !! Btw… the Missus was looking over my shoulder and for some reason she said she was going to subscribe to your channel now… Musta been a hidden message in there somewhere. LOL. Good one Martin. I liked it.
LOL! At last, confirmation the subliminal message works! Woohoo! Thanks for watching!
Good video, agree 100% plus, the plastic clips on the cover always break anyway so I do not use chains either
Sir you are the Bob Ross of tractors 🚜
Thank you! Several people have told me the same thing and I consider that a high compliment indeed!
Our snowblower has a plastic shroud, but didn't come with chains nor do I recall seeing any place to connect a chain. So I don't think this design is meant to continually spin independent of the PTO shaft. I haven't gotten close enough to test how easily the shroud stops spinning in contact and while I am curious, I don't think I am going to test it anytime soon. I prefer a respectful distance between me and the PTO shaft.
Hi Brian! Yes, keeping your distance fro the PTO shaft while it it operating is the best policy. The closest I’ve been to a spinning PTO shaft was shooting that demo of how easily the shroud will stop. Now that the video is done, I won’t be doing it again. Thanks for watching!
You are so very right sir!
Martin I am going to start doing the same Thanks for sharing : )
That’s certainly up to you. Remember, I am explaining why I don’t use chains since people have asked. I am NOT saying anyone else should. Thanks for watching!
@@DIYMyWay I get it. I won't throw you under the bus : )
Bought my first tractor last year with a brush hog and the dealer did not recommend chains... His rationale was the same as yours!
Hi Michael! Well obviously your dealer is a very smart guy! LOL! Thanks for watching!
I tend to agree with you..very good video!
I don't use the chains, either. But, I did have the cover get a groove in it from spinning against the trailer hitch. I think the brush hog dipped too low when I went over a hill.
Good consideration Martin! I agree with your thinking. By spinning the guard constantly, that is a risk it fails sooner. But yet, it will fail if not maintained properly. The same will apply if no chain is used, the only difference, the guard might be harmful. Anyways, that small chain and ESPECIALLY the small plastic loop on the guard is going to fail whenever the guard does not spin freely. With a chain, you will know your guard is failing to spin freely if that happens. Without a chain, you have a clear visual sign of the danger... Do I sound hesitant??? Lol! Thanks!
Hi Joe! I let the guard spin freely so that there is virtually no wear on the sleeve bearings. Thus the chances of it seizing up is extremely low. And I make sure the guards are greased and rotating freely before each use. If the guard is chained, the sleeve bearings are guaranteed to fail much sooner. That’s my reasoning in a nut shell. Thanks for watching!
I think this is a good way of doing things... just don't know why engineers didn't think of it... ...wait a minute, are we engineers? Lol!
I agree with your logic.
First implement I ever used tore the safety chains right out of the shroud. The plastic was so thin that it couldn't hold.
Another good reason not to use them. Thanks for the visit!
Fantastic video. Thank you.
Thanks for watching!
Thanks
Welcome!
Talk about safety When I was little, the thrashing machine came to do the stalks of wheat and was powered by a long belt to the stationary tractor. There was no safety devices with that setup. I used to get a lot of warnings about staying far away. Huge straw stacks, great time in my life.
Hi Chuck! Ah yes, those old belt-driven farm machines are amazing - and dangerous!
Thank you
You’re welcome!
I have used chains for many years and have never had one break or come off. You can get away without them if you regularly grease, check, and generally maintain your sleeves, but how many people will do that?? If they’re not maintained, the sleeves seize to the shaft and then you have a major safety hazard that is as bad as no sleeve at all. I know someone who was caught in a seized sleeve and although he still has his arm, he has reduced mobility.
Here’s a bit of simple logic: if a safety chain breaks or becomes detached, it is fully visible and will no doubt make lots of noise as it whacks things while spinning. Anyone with eyes and ears isn’t going to go anywhere near it without shutting down the PTO. However, if a safely sleeve bearing is seized from lack of grease and maintenance, you cannot see or hear that it is seized, so it is a far more dangerous hazard than a loose or broken chain.
I respect everyone’s personal decision, but this is truly a no-brainer for me. I’ll continue to use chains on all of my pto shafts.
Hi Dave! You've made the best case I've heard yet for chains. I actually do maintain my PTO shafts and since the bearings are very unlikely to seize because they don't get hardly any wear on them, I won't use chains. Still, hats off to you for a solid argument for chains! Thanks for watching and giving your opinion!
Thanks for the feedback, Martin! As mentioned , I totally respect everyone’s choice but I know in my case I’d very likely forget to grease and test the sleeves regularly. I do a fair bit of bush hogging and no doubt after a year or two, those sleeve bushings would be caked with dirt, seeds, and all forms of organic guck, and could become one with the shaft.
On a totally different topic, and while I believe I’ve said this before, your series on the carry all build was extremely well done. I followed that pattern to make my own with only a few minor mods to accommodate some specific requirements and it works great! I have considered buying a Big Tool Rack but the carry all does everything I need.
Thanks for the great videos and good luck for the continued growth of your channel!
Can't argue with your logic
Makes sense to me!
Glad to hear it. Thanks for watching!
Certainly makes alot of sense...thx for vid
Any ideas on the Big tool rack?
It’s a brilliant device but pricey. I had built my carryall before it came on the market so I don’t see the need. Also, I’m pretty sure it doesn’t need PTO chains. 🙂 Thanks for watching!
I watched a episode on ask tractor Mike and a lot of manufacturers stopped putting safety chains on equipment. I think it had to do with lawsuit with the chains.
I think I saw the same video a good while back. I wouldn’t be surprised if there was a lawsuit about the chains. Thanks for watching!
I go to say im guilty of having some brand new shafts with the chains still in the packaging taped to the cover, maybe ill make it a point to ditch the chains, could easily repurpose them to hold pins somewhere where you dont want to lose them!
Yep, it’s best to repurpose those chains so they don’t create a hazard. Thanks for watching!
I'm gonna go one better... no PTO cover at all. Oh my. My used rotary cutter didn't come with one. Easy safety thing I do is don't get anywhere near it when it's engaged. I couldn't if I tried with Kubota safety switch. Maybe one day I will buy one .just to make me feel better.
Thanks good points and video
To each their own, Rudy! I wouldn’t go that far simply because of the risk of the shaft snagging vines going up trees that could yank down limbs and such on you. Or catching on some old barbed wire hidden in the brush. I’m all for a PTO cover, just not the chains. Thanks for watching!
Great advice, most new tractor owners would never be aware of these potential hazards.
@@DIYMyWay that's actually a very good point.. 👍
Agree!
Thanks for the video. I just got a WoodMaxx wood chipper. The pto came with chains. I have never used chains before with my implements. Still won't.
I do not have any pto driven implements. If I buy any the bearing will be checked and chains removed.
Interesting. I guess my question is: How did you know you could touch an UNchained pto shaft cover and that it would stop like that?
I see your point, but my concern would be someone not knowing whether the cover was, or was not, greased properly and then get into trouble by thinking it was one way (or the other) and then finding out the hard way that it didn't behave like they expected. (Hopefully that sentence made sense!) :)
Bottom line is, like others have said: Stay away from the PTO shaft!
I knew because (1) I maintain the shafts and covers and (2) a small diameter plastic sleeve rotating at only 540 RPM does not have much inertia. I would never assume anyone else's PTO shafts are maintained and normally I stay as far away from spinning machinery as possible. This demo being an exception to answer a frequently asked question. Thanks for watching!
I don’t use them but admittedly I didn’t know how to use them
It’s just as well, Robert. I think you’ll be better off without them. Thanks for watching!
All this messing around with shields, chains, and fussy PTO shafts is proof that implements should be hydraulically powered. You put a hydraulic pump at the stub shaft, a hydraulic hose after that, and a hydraulic motor at the implement. Hoses are flexible and never spin, and they transfer plenty of power.
Good point, Shandor. I’ve seen a few implements that are hydraulic pump powered like 3-point log splitters and 3-point backhoes that necessarily need hydraulic power, but I suspect cost is the reason other implements aren’t hydraulicly powered. Thanks for watching!
As I see it, if the cover bearing seizes, it can cause a major safety issue. That unlikely potential danger seems worse without chains than with them. As you demonstrate, the chains can whip around but they have very little torque since as you also demonstrate it takes very little force to stop the sleeve and chain. I think one could create arguments for both sides of this one but what's most important to me is just thinking about the dangers and being aware of the potential hazards of however you choose to operate your equipment.
Hi Don! If the cover bearings seize, they will rip the chains loose and they will be spinning with the full force of the PTO shaft. If the cover is allowed to spin with the shaft, it’s not likely to wear or overheat the bearings enough for them to seize in the first place, especially when maintained and inspected periodically. I agree with you the most important thing is being aware of the hazard machinery and give it the full respect - and distance - warranted. Thanks for watching!
My Bush Hog is so old it doesn't have a shroud. I think I will notice anyone standing on it and politely suggest that they aren't in a safe location. I'm going to mow 1.5 acres with it tomorrow. It's that time of year. I'll report back if someone jumps on there and rips their legs off.
Thankfully no one was injured during the project. Even turtles and snakes were allowed to flee the area mowed.
I like it !
i agree with you. Think its just another way a engineer came up with a way to make more money. He probably doesn't even know how to operate a tractor. lol
Never have used them
It's better without the chain ⛓😌 thankbyou for the video
Another pro of not using chains: You can easily SEE if the PTO shaft is spinning.
Exactly, Carlton
I never use chains and I still feel safe
You are safe as long as you maintain your PTO shaft and especially the safety cover sleeve bearings. Thanks for watching!
I cut my chains off too sir.. totally agree
So why run a shield? It is minimally safer with a spinning shield as a bare spinning shaft.
Folks watch your PTO power implement, or listen for the noise, it should not be hard to figure out if the implement is working. If you have a slip clutch, one more item to receive visual feedback.
I feel compelled to subscribe and I'm not sure why. I'm mean the content is awesome, but this compulsion good beyond that.
😬
Thanks for watching and subscribing, Erik! It’s the subliminal messages I put in my videos. It works on some people and apparently you are one of them. Just kidding! 😀
Without doubt always use the safety chain, if the guard fails and spins with the shaft you will not know until you are entangled, do a search on PTO accidents than decide. A friend of mine lost his arm in a baler incident. Use the guard as designed please. I follow several you tube farmers, I am always surprised of how many unprotected PTOs there are especially on static machinery such as augers. I accept your PTO is well maintained, but it is not worth the risk.
Did you friend lose his arm because there was no chain installed? Number one rule is to secure the PTO before approaching the baler. There is no maintenance that should be performed on a running baler.
Old school safety, shut the tractor off.
No chains
break thoze chainz
I don't use the chains
But I thought Trump wants to put you back in chains... Lol
I guess that all of my implements are so old, none of them came with guards or previous owners removed them. I just try to abide by the eleventh commandment ( and the other ten as well ). I have hunted and hunted for your video demo on how to make your tractor work by remote control, that was a goodern. Thanks for sharing
Ha! You won’t find that video. It’s a closely guarded secret! Thanks for watching, Matthew!
Makes sense to me!