New Holland TMF 160 – TMF: PTO Clutch is Slipping Too Much

The PTO clutch is slipping excessively for the duration of 5 seconds or longer. The machine's software has detected a mismatch between the commanded PTO speed and the actual rotation speed of the PTO shaft, meaning the mechanical clutch pack is failing to hold the torque load and is slipping.

• T6 Series
• T7 Series
• T8 Series
• T9 Series
• TG Series
• TG215
• TG245
• TS Series
• TM Series
• TB Series

1. 1

   Measure the PTO clutch hydraulic pressure. Low or unstable hydraulic pressure from a failing PTO control valve or weak pump will cause a perfectly good clutch to slip under load.

2. 2

   Check the transmission/hydraulic fluid. A burnt smell strongly indicates clutch overheating and friction material failure. Metal particles in the oil point to bearing or gear wear.

3. 3

   Inspect the PTO switch, wiring, relays, and the PTO control solenoid. A failing solenoid can cause intermittent pressure drops.

4. 4

   Verify that safety interlock sensors (seat, clutch, brakes) are not intermittently cutting the circuit to the PTO control valve.

1. 1

   Drain Fluids

   Drain the transmission/hydraulic fluid from the rear housing.

2. 2

   Access the PTO Clutch

   Depending on the specific New Holland model, remove the rear PTO housing assembly or split the tractor to access the internal PTO clutch pack.

3. 3

   Remove and Inspect

   Extract the worn PTO clutch assembly. Inspect the clutch drum, housing, and mating surfaces for scoring, heat checking, or damage.

4. 4

   Replace Components

   Install the new PTO clutch discs (alternating friction plates and steel separator plates) or install a complete pre-assembled PTO clutch pack. Replace any worn PTO bearings or seals while the housing is open.

5. 5

   Valve Service

   If hydraulic pressure was diagnosed as unstable, replace or rebuild the PTO control valve/solenoid.

6. 6

   Reassembly

   Reinstall the PTO housing and shaft. Ensure all O-rings and gaskets are replaced to prevent internal pressure leaks.

7. 7

   Refill and Filter

   Install a new hydraulic filter and refill the system with fresh, OEM-approved transmission/hydraulic fluid.

8. 8

   Calibration

   Clear the TMF 160 fault code. You must perform a PTO clutch calibration procedure via the tractor's electronic management system to ensure the TMF module applies the correct engagement pressure to the new clutch pack.