DIY: PTO Your Tractor Into a Generator

For those who own and work the land, getting power to far flung parts of your property can be a problem. Do you have a tractor? Problem solved! A power take-off generator (PTO), can get power out there where you need it. PTO generators connect directly to the driveshaft of your tractor to generate electricity. Run power tools way out on the range, far from any wall sockets, and without carrying unnecessary equipment. When storms knock out the power to your property, peace of mind comes from having reliable backup power. Use a manual transfer switch to restore power to your house, barn, or outbuilding during an outage. If you’re going to be powering sensitive electronics, consider a models with low total harmonic distortion (THD).

Our Power Take Off Generators have 100% copper windings, run bi-directionally and have thermal overload protection. Designed for small tractors to run at 6% or less total harmonic distortion. Made with material designed to weather the outdoors. Generate electricity to power equipment on the farm, ranch or jobsite. Backup your home, or outbuildings during a power outage. Mainline circuit breaker protects the generator and appliances from overload. Easily monitor your power usage right from your tractor seat. Easily transport your PTO generator with a utility trailer (sold separately).

Things to Consider When Choosing a PTO Generator Engine Size (Horsepower)-This is the most important step in sizing your PTO generator. You’ll need to match to the horsepower of your tractor’s engine. You’ll need 2 HP to produce 1 kW of electricity. For example, 50 HP engine would be required to produce 25 kW of power. Engine Speed (RPM)- PTO shafts run at two different speeds either 540 or 1000 rpms. If your tractor has just one speed, buy the corresponding 540 or 1000 rpm PTO generator. Electrical Phase- PTO generators produce two types of electricity: Single-Phase or Three-Phase. Single-Phase electricity is the same as you would get from a wall socket. Three-Phase electricity is for higher-powered usage, 208 or 480 volts.

Simpler than a gas engine, you’ll be surprised at how easy PTO generators are to maintain. There are models that are brushless generators with maintenance-free bearings to make upkeep a nonissue. Home standby generators are much more expensive than a PTO generator with equivalent power output. It’s basically the most powerful portable generator possible.