Maintaining the slip clutch on a PTO-driven implement allows for normal function. These implements perform a wide array of functions, including mowing, cutting, and tilling. Without proper maintenance, the slip clutch will not function normally and will eventually seize up completely. This guide will help people maintain their slip clutches correctly.
How Does a Slip Clutch Operate?
The clutch is constantly engaging, even when the PTO-driven implement is standing still. When owners do not maintain their slip clutch, all types of complications may occur. If you are wondering What is a slip clutch, continue reading.
Slip clutches are freewheel mechanisms designed to protect the PTO implement and its gearbox. The slip clutch helps to protect the PTO against extreme force, preventing it from experiencing damage.
Due to the immense power of tractors and other PTO-driven implements, protection becomes key. Although they are highly important, slip clutches are simple mechanisms and very easy to use.
Four Maintenance Tips for Slip Clutches
Because slip clutches are under such immense pressure and are so important, owners must perform maintenance regularly. Slip clutches become rusty if left out in the open. Owners should check their slip clutch frequently and ensure all the parts are rust-free and working effectively. The following tips should help owners take the correct action.
· First, a person needs to remove the springs. Cracks develop inside the springs, due to the enormous pressure placed on them. If the springs are cracked, owners need to replace them right away. Cracked springs could lead to catastrophic damage and injuries.
· Owners must check the bolts and threadings at least once a year. A person never knows when they may need to adjust the operation of the machinery while in the field. Rusty bolts can break apart and cause individuals to be unable to make adjustments. Bolts become rusty, and the threading becomes damaged over time. Owners should replace any rusted bolts right away.
· The friction plates are one of the most important aspects of a slip clutch. These plates function in much the same way as brake pads and can degrade over time and become worn. If the owner is careful with their machinery, the friction plates may last a long time. On large farms, wear and tear end up causing the need for friction plate replacement often.
· Owners also need to ensure they periodically clean the slip clutch and tighten any connections that may have loosened over time, due to vibrations. The frequency of this maintenance chore will depend on the level of use the machine goes through.
How Often Should Owners Perform Slip Clutch Maintenance?
Ideally, a person should check their slip clutch at least once a month, depending on the frequency of use. These mechanisms are consistently under immense pressure, and they can begin to suffer damage quickly. Even if the clutch was recently checked, a few long days in the field can lead to problems.
Safety and performance are the number one concerns when it comes to slip clutch maintenance. By taking time to inspect the slip clutch regularly, owners will find their PTO-driven device is less likely to experience problems with performance or safety.
Owners should clean their slip clutches regularly and have them serviced or replaced when major problems in function begin to develop. This integral mechanism keeps a PTO-driven device working safely and effectively.