1 3/8" PTO Drive Shaft & Slip Clutch, 43"-57" 6 Spline Both Ends PTO Friction Clutch, Carburized Steel Tractor Slip Clutch for Bush Hog/Finish Mower/Rotary Cutter

What It Is

This is a complete PTO driveline assembly with an integrated slip clutch, designed for mid- to heavy-duty rotary cutters, finish mowers, and bush hogs. It transmits power from the tractor to the implement while the friction clutch protects the gearbox from shock loads during startup or blade strikes.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, verify these four measurements:

• Length range: This shaft telescopes from 43" to 57" compressed (center-to-center of universal joints). Measure from the tractor PTO stub shaft to the implement gearbox input shaft with both at full lift and full drop.
• Spline ends: Both ends are 6-spline, 1-3/8" diameter – fits standard Category 1 and 2 tractor PTO stubs and most rotary cutter gearboxes. Does not fit 1-1/8" or 20-spline applications.
• Horsepower rating: Typically rated for 40-65 HP tractors. Check your implement’s gearbox rating – under-specing can cause premature clutch wear.
• Deck size: Works with 4-7 ft rotary cutters and finish mowers. Larger decks may exceed the torque capacity.

Brand-specific fit: Compatible with Bush Hog, Land Pride, Woods, Rhino, and most aftermarket cutters using a standard 6-spline input. Not a direct OEM replacement – measure first.

Key Things to Know

• Clutch break-in required: Run at light load for 20-30 minutes, then re-torque the clutch plate bolts to spec (usually 30-40 ft-lbs). Skipping this leads to premature slip.
• Carburized steel construction: Hardened outer surface resists wear, but the inner core stays tough – good for rocky or heavy brush conditions.
• Installation difficulty: Moderate. You’ll need two wrenches and a grease gun. The shaft ships partially collapsed – extend it to fit, then lock the telescoping section with the included pin.
• Common gotcha: The slip clutch has a friction disc pack that can glaze if you run it fully engaged for long periods. Always disengage PTO before stopping to avoid heat buildup.

Should You Buy It

Buy this if you need a robust, ready-to-install driveline for a 40-65 HP tractor and a 4-7 ft rotary cutter or finish mower, and you’re comfortable measuring and setting clutch torque. Skip it if your application requires a 1-1/8" shaft, a shear-bolt design, or a shorter/longer collapsed length.