In heavy-duty vehicles such as trucks, tippers, and industrial machinery, the auxiliary gearbox, also known as Power Take Off (PTO), is a vital component. It transfers the power generated by the engine or transmission to auxiliary systems such as hydraulic pumps, cranes, water pumps, sweepers, or tipping mechanisms. Thanks to the auxiliary gearbox, vehicles can perform much more than simple movement—they can operate multiple functions efficiently.
The auxiliary gearbox (PTO) is connected to the vehicle’s main transmission. It draws mechanical power directly from the engine and transfers it to hydraulic pumps or other external systems.
For example, in a tipper truck, when the PTO is engaged, the engine’s power is transmitted to the hydraulic pump, which then lifts the truck body to unload the load. Similarly, fire trucks use the auxiliary gearbox to power water pumps, agricultural tractors use it for balers and harvesters, and cranes rely on it to operate lifting mechanisms.
The applications of PTOs (auxiliary gearboxes) cover a wide range of sectors:
Tipper trucks and trailers – for lifting and unloading operations.
Cranes and recovery trucks – to power hydraulic arms and winches.
Agricultural machinery – tractors, balers, and harvesters.
Fire trucks – to operate high-pressure water pumps.
Street sweepers and cleaning vehicles – to drive brushes and vacuum systems.
Industrial equipment – presses, pumps, and production machinery.
In short, wherever engine power needs to be transferred to another system, the auxiliary gearbox (PTO) is the key.
There are different types of auxiliary gearboxes (PTOs) depending on the vehicle and application:
Mechanical PTOs – engaged manually by a lever or switch.
Pneumatic PTOs – controlled by air pressure.
Hydraulic PTOs – used in applications that require high torque.
Manufacturers like Hydrotime provide PTO systems compatible with various vehicle brands and transmission types.
PTO prices (auxiliary gearbox prices) depend on several factors:
Vehicle model and gearbox compatibility
Torque and power capacity
Type of PTO (mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic)
Brand reputation, build quality, and warranty coverage
Local vs. imported production
While simpler PTOs for light-duty vehicles are more affordable, heavy-duty high-torque PTOs for trucks and industrial equipment are priced higher. Long-term durability and service support should always be considered alongside cost.
When selecting a PTO (auxiliary gearbox), key factors include:
Compatibility with the vehicle’s model and transmission type
Required torque and power capacity
Suitability for the intended application (tipper, crane, pump, etc.)
Availability of spare parts and after-sales service
Certifications, quality standards, and warranty terms
The right auxiliary gearbox improves overall performance and ensures long-term reliability.
In conclusion, the auxiliary gearbox (PTO) is one of the most critical components that allow vehicles to perform additional tasks beyond simple movement. From tippers and tractors to fire trucks and cranes, PTOs are indispensable for efficiency, productivity, and safety.
Hydrotime provides a wide range of high-quality PTO solutions, meeting international standards and offering durable, efficient performance for both domestic and global markets.
Choosing the right auxiliary gearbox (PTO) enhances vehicle performance, reduces operating costs, and ensures reliable system operation.
