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As you have probably figured out "live PTO" usually refers to either a two-stage clutch (first 2/3 of travel de-clutches the drive to the wheels, last 1/3 declutches the drive to the PTO) or a seperate clutch for the PTO (some older Case and a few New Holland and some bigger tractors).
Having had hydrostatic and gear drive units, I would say hydro is nice in some situations, but not essential and may rob a bit of power. One alternative is shuttle shift to allow shifting between forward & reverse, great for loader work or fiddling around the edges of a field.
I have a New Holland TC30, which has the gear selector on the dash in an "H" pattern with 2nd and Reverse on the right side of the "H". This makes it great for loader work or three point turns on the headlands. Yes, you have to push the clutch, but the ergonomics are so much better than reaching down for the shifter.
Also, a gear drive will have less hp lost in the drivetrain.
Happy hunting.
Les
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Les
My train of thought has been replaced by a bumper car.
Last edited by oldE; 04-17-2014 at 05:09 PM..
Reason: sp
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