New Holland TMF 165 – TMF Controller: PTO Shaft rotation is detected when the Engine is OFF.

The PTO speed sensor is sending a rotational signal to the controller after the engine has been shut down. This condition typically points to a mechanical failure (PTO brake failed or clutch pack warped/binding) or an electrical/sensor failure (PTO speed sensor shorted or failed).

• New Holland T8 Series (T8.300, T8.380, T8010, T8030)
• New Holland TG Series (TG210, TG275)
• New Holland TM Series (TM115-TM165)
• New Holland TS/TL series

1. 1

   Visual Confirmation: Shut the engine off and visually inspect the PTO stub shaft at the rear of the tractor. If the shaft is NOT spinning, the issue is electrical (sensor sending false signal). If the shaft IS spinning (coasting), the issue is mechanical (brake not engaging or clutch dragging).

2. 2

   Electrical Testing: If the shaft is stationary, disconnect the PTO speed sensor harness. Check the wiring for shorts to ground or voltage. If the wiring is intact, the sensor itself has failed internally.

3. 3

   Mechanical Testing: With the engine OFF, attempt to turn the PTO shaft by hand. On most of these tractors, a spring-loaded PTO brake should prevent you from turning it easily. If it spins freely with no resistance, the internal PTO brake pad/plate is worn out, missing, or the brake piston return spring has failed.

1. 1

   Locate PTO speed sensor

   Locate the PTO speed sensor on the rear PTO housing.

2. 2

   Disconnect harness

   Disconnect the electrical harness connector.

3. 3

   Remove sensor

   Remove the retaining bolt and pull the sensor out of the housing.

4. 4

   Install new sensor

   Lubricate the O-ring on the new sensor, insert it into the housing, and torque the retaining bolt to OEM spec.

5. 5

   Reconnect and clear code

   Reconnect the harness and clear the TMF 165 fault code via the diagnostic menu or service tool.

6. 6

   Drain fluid

   Drain the hydraulic/transmission fluid from the rear housing.

7. 7

   Remove PTO housing

   Unbolt and carefully remove the PTO housing/assembly from the rear of the tractor.

8. 8

   Inspect PTO brake assembly

   Inspect the PTO brake assembly. If the friction material is worn down, glazed, or the brake plate tab is broken off, remove the old brake pad/plate.

9. 9

   Inspect PTO clutch pack

   Inspect the PTO clutch pack. Look for warped clutch discs, damaged Teflon seal rings, or weak return springs that could cause the clutch to drag. Rebuild the clutch pack if necessary.

10. 10

    Install new PTO brake pad

    Install the new PTO brake pad. Ensure the brake drum is free of scoring; clean it with emery cloth if necessary.

11. 11

    Reassemble PTO housing

    Reassemble the PTO housing, ensuring proper bearing preload and that the three brake piston pads are seated correctly.

12. 12

    Refill system and verify

    Refill the system with the specified hydraulic fluid, run the tractor, and verify the PTO stops promptly when disengaged or when the engine is shut off.