PTO Shaft for John Deere Square Balers is a specialized type of Power Take-Off (PTO) shaft designed to work in synergy with square balers. Square balers play a crucial role in creating bales of hay or straw. The distinctive square shape of this PTO shaft is crafted to facilitate power transfer from the tractor to the implement, resulting in the production of square-shaped bales.
Composition and Functioning of Square Baler PTO Shafts
The square baler PTO shafts are typically made up of two distinct parts: the tractor side and the implement side. The tractor side of the shaft connects to the tractor’s PTO output, while the implement side connects to the baler. Notably, the implement side of the square baler PTO shafts usually have an adjustable length, allowing them to connect to a wide range of implements with ease. On the other hand, the tractor side PTO shafts are of a standard length.
Due to their high-speed spinning, PTO shafts, including the square baler PTO shaft, can be potentially hazardous and lead to accidents. Hence, regular inspection and maintenance are crucial to maintain their optimal working condition. It’s essential to adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions for the assembly and disassembly of the PTO shafts and use suitable safety equipment during the process.

Square Baler PTO Shaft Size Chart
The original equipment PTO Shaft is Weasler 35N CV. Input shafts are 1.750″-6. For specifications tailored to your needs, please contact us.
The square baler PTO shaft operates in a rotational motion, transferring energy connected to the transmission. It has a PTO horsepower of 35 at 540 RPMs. The dual 5 series yokes each have a female end measuring 1-3/8 inches, with 6 splines. The slip clutch measures 1-3/8 inches, with 6 splines. The clutch is designed to slip when the torque is too great for the implement. It also slips to protect the gearbox on the implement if a foreign object were to cause damage. As a critical safety precaution, ensure to shield any rotating parts and avoid wearing loose accessories that could become entangled.

Features of Square Baler PTO Shafts
Square baler PTO shafts offer several convenient features that enhance their usability and maintenance. Understanding these features is crucial for selecting the right shaft for your baler and implement combination and for their safe operation. Some of the features include:
- Square shape: The square baler PTO shaft is square-shaped, which helps to distribute power evenly and reduces the chances of the shaft slipping.
- Two-piece design: The square baler PTO shaft is typically composed of two separate pieces, making it more versatile and easier to connect to a wide range of implements.
- Adjustable length: A movable connector on the implement side PTO shaft allows for adjustable length to accommodate different baler models with different connection points.
- High-speed rating: Square baler PTO shafts have a high-speed rating, which means they can be used with high-performance balers without breaking easily.
- Durability: PTO shafts for square balers are designed to be durable and are made out of heavy-duty materials to withstand the stress and demands of heavy agricultural use.
- Safety features: The square baler PTO shafts have safety features like mechanical overload protection and shields that help prevent accidents when the shaft is spinning.
Applications of Square Baler PTO Shafts
Square baler PTO shafts are used in the agricultural industry, specifically in the production of hay or straw bales. They are used in conjunction with square balers, which compress hay or straw into square-shaped bales that are easy to handle and transport.
Square baler PTO shafts are used on tractors, which power the balers. The PTO shaft on the tractor transfers power to the baler, which compresses the hay or straw and then produces the square-shaped bales.
They are popular among farmers who need to handle significant volumes of hay or straw and require efficient and convenient baling and transport options. Regular inspection and proper maintenance of square baler PTO shafts are essential to ensure they are always in good working condition. This helps prevent accidents that can occur when using PTO shafts, which can be dangerous if not used and maintained correctly.
![]() |
![]() |
Connecting PTO Shaft to Square Baler
Connecting a PTO shaft to a square baler can be a straightforward process if you follow the correct steps. Here’s a general guide:
- Park the tractor next to the baler and engage the parking brake.
- Ensure the transmission is neutral and that the PTO shaft is turned off.
- Attach the PTO shaft to the back of the tractor’s PTO output shaft.
- Rotate the square baler’s input shaft to align it with the PTO shaft.
- Line up the splines on the two shafts and gently push the PTO shaft onto the baler’s input shaft.
- Secure the locking mechanism on the baler’s input shaft using a pin, clip or locking collar.
- Switch on the PTO and check that the PTO shaft and baler input shaft is rotating correctly.
- Check the PTO shaft regularly for wear, deformation, or any other signs of damage.
Following the manufacturer’s guidelines and maintenance procedures for the PTO shaft and baler is also crucial. Inspect the shaft and lubricate it before and after use to prevent damage. Always wear appropriate safety gear, such as goggles or work gloves, when working with PTO equipment.
Disconnecting PTO Shaft From Tractor
Disconnecting a PTO shaft from a tractor requires care to prevent any damage to the equipment and ensure safety. Here are some steps to follow:
- Firstly, switch off the engine and disengage the PTO.
- Make sure that the tractor is stable and not moving by setting the hand brake and wheel chocks.
- Inspect the PTO shaft and look for signs of wear, damage, or broken parts, and replace any defective parts before proceeding.
- Locate the locking mechanism on the tractor’s PTO shaft. It could be a pin, clip or a locking collar, depending on the model of the tractor.
- Use the appropriate tool such as pliers, a pin remover or wrench to remove the locking mechanism.
- Then, slide the PTO shaft gently out of the splines on the tractor’s PTO output shaft.
- Inspect the PTO shaft for any damage or wear, clean it properly and store it in a secure place.
- Finally, replace the locking mechanism back in place to prevent any accidents from happening.
It is essential to remember that if the PTO shaft is bent, twisted, or damaged in any way, do not use it again. Always ensure that you follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and maintenance procedures to prevent any accidents or damage to the equipment. And always wear appropriate safety gear, such as gloves, while working on PTO equipment to protect yourself from injury.

Replacing PTO Shaft Tubing
Replacing PTO shaft tubing can be a challenging task, but with the right tools and expertise, it can be done successfully. Here are some general steps to replace PTO shaft tubing:
- Remove the old tubing: The first step is to remove the old PTO shaft tubing. This is done by cutting the old tubing in half and removing it from the driveline.
- Prepare the new tubing: Cut the new PTO shaft tubing to the required length, and then deburr the edges to prevent damage to the seal.
- Install the new tubing: Slide the new PTO shaft tubing onto the driveline, making sure it is correctly aligned and seated. Tighten the set screws on both sides to secure the tubing in place.
- Check for proper fit: Verify that the new PTO shaft tubing is the proper length and that it does not interfere with other components. Also, check that it rotates smoothly with the driveline.
- Lubricate and reassemble: Add lubrication to the new PTO shaft tubing and reassemble the driveline. Make sure to test the driveline after reassembly to ensure that it is operating correctly.
Note that replacing PTO shaft tubing requires specialized knowledge and tools. If you are unsure about how to replace the PTO

