reversible PTO

[fast_46]

I'm an ag engineering student, and we have to come up with a final design project. One idea I had was a reversible pto for tractors. The theoretical advantage would be a convenient way to reverse rotation direction of certain implements in case they became plugged. Haybines, pull type swathers, pto-drive augers, etc. Just looking for feedback from the guys who know it best (farmers, not engineers). Any other suggestions are more than welcome. Thanks.

[muttley]

I know john deere headers have reversible feeder houses similar to what you talking about. They are a god send if you have ever jammed the drum on an old head you wish you had one.

Some machinery have over run clutches which allow you to turn the implement backwards removing the blockage.

Sounds like a good idea for the actual PTO to be direction changeable

[Dave]

From the Mahindra web site (obscure brand, never heard of them in Australia), their 7520 tractor (http://www.mahindrausa.com/Products/df_PRODUCT.aspx?proid=119) seems to have a "two speed, dry reversible PTO".

I'm not sure how this works though. There's always room for a new idea if it's an improvement :thumb.