PTO Generators

This type of generator uses a conventional farm tractor's power-take-off (PTO) drive as the mechanical energy source to turn the generator.

The PTO typically transfers this mechanical energy through a driveshaft to a gearbox, which is in turn attached to the generator.

When the PTO turns the generator (actually an alternator) at the proper speed (usually 1800 RPM or 3600 RPM) electricity is produced.

It is important to properly match the generator and the tractor. Usually about 2Hp is needed on the tractor for each generator kilowatt (one kW = 1000 watts).

Some of the more efficient generators function with less than two horsepower per kilowatt (see Generator Sizing Guidelines for proper tractor to generator sizing).

As some generators run off a 540 RPM tractor PTO speed and others work on 1000 RPM tractor PTO speed, it is also crucial that 540 PTO RPM tractors be matched to 540 RPM generators and 1000 RPM tractors be used on 1000 RPM generators.

NOTE - AS OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2001 WE ARE NO LONGER SUPPLYING PTO GENS OF ANY SIZE. REQUESTS FOR PTO GENERATORS WILL NOT BE RESPONDED TO.