Description
Wide Angle Joint for PTO Shaft | Constant Velocity PTO Joint
The Wide Angle Joint — also known as a constant velocity (CV) PTO joint, wide-angle universal joint, or high-articulation PTO coupling — is engineered for agricultural applications where the operating angle between the tractor PTO and the implement input exceeds the safe limit of standard Cardan joints (typically 8–12°). Our WA.01 series supports articulation angles up to 80°, delivering smooth, vibration-free power transmission even at extreme deflection. This makes it the ideal choice for implements that require tight turning radii, offset mounting, or operation on steep terrain.
Technical Specifications
| Series | Cross | A | B | C | D | E (Half) | F (Yoke) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2WA.01 | 23.8×61.3/22×76 | 153 | 104 | 119 | 105 | 2WA.0505B/D/G | 2WA.06/06L |
| 4WA.01 | 27×74.6/23.8×91 | 153 | 104 | 124 | 110 | 4WA.0505B/D/G | 4WA.06/06L |
| 6WA.01 | 30.2×92/27×100 | 176 | 105 | 136 | 127 | 6WA.0505B/D/G | 6WA.06/06L/06ST |
| 8WA.01 | 35×106.5/30.2×106 | 184 | 120 | 146 | 147 | 8WA.0505B/C/D/E | 8WA.06/06L/06ST |
| 32WA.01 | 32×76/27×94 | 176 | 105 | 126 | 117 | 32WA.0505B/C/D/E | 32WA.06/.06L/06ST |
| 36WA.01 | 36×89/32×106 | 184 | 120 | 125 | 126 | 36WA.0505B/C/D/E | 36WA.06/06L/06ST |
| 42WA.01 | 42×104.5/36×124 | 184 | 124 | 149 | 150 | 42WA.0505B/C/D/E | 42WA.06/06ST/06G |
Key Selling Points
Operates smoothly at angles far beyond standard u-joints, enabling tight turns and steep-angle applications.
Eliminates the cyclical speed variation inherent in single-joint Cardan shafts, reducing vibration and extending implement bearing life.
From Series 2 (light-duty) through Series 42 (heavy-duty), covering all standard cross sizes used in global agriculture.
Cross dimensions and yoke patterns match industry standards, allowing direct replacement of worn or damaged CV joints.
Permanently sealed cross journal bearings minimize maintenance and extend service life in dusty agricultural environments.
E (half) and F (yoke) components can be combined to suit specific driveline layouts.
How Wide Angle Joints Work
A wide angle joint uses a double-joint housing with an intermediate spider that divides the total operating angle evenly between two sets of cross journals. Because each cross carries only half the total deflection, the joint achieves smooth, constant-velocity power transfer even at extreme angles. This contrasts with a standard single Cardan joint, which produces sinusoidal speed fluctuations proportional to the operating angle — fluctuations that cause damaging vibrations at high angles. The CV design within the wide angle joint cancels these fluctuations entirely, delivering uniform rotational speed from input to output.
Application Scenarios
Tight headland turns create extreme angles between tractor and implement. A wide angle joint maintains drive continuity throughout.
Front PTO configurations often involve offset and angular misalignment that exceeds standard joint limits.
Steep terrain and narrow rows force the implement to operate at significant angles relative to the tractor.
Type Comparison
| Joint Type | Max Angle | CV Output | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Cardan | 8–12° | No | Straight-line PTO shafts |
| Wide Angle Joint | Up to 80° | Yes | High-angle / CV applications |
| SD-Double Joint | Up to 25° | Partial | Moderate-angle extension |
Installation & Safety
- Identify the required cross size and series from the table above.
- Assemble the half-shaft (E component) and yoke (F component) per the driveline configuration.
- Connect to the PTO shaft and implement, ensuring all push pins and retaining clips are fully seated.
- Grease all cross journals before first use, then every 8 operating hours.
- Periodically check the maximum operating angle — sustained operation near the limit accelerates wear.
Safety: Always use a PTO safety shield over the wide angle joint. High-angle operation increases surface speed of exposed joint components.
Selection Guide
Measure the maximum operating angle between the tractor PTO and implement input at full articulation. Choose a wide angle joint series that matches the cross size of your existing PTO shaft. Verify the A, B, C, D dimensions against your driveline layout. If your application operates at moderate angles (under 25°), an SD-Double Joint may be a more cost-effective alternative. For extreme angles, the wide angle joint is the only reliable option. Need assistance? Contact our engineering team.
Quality Standards
ISO 9001:2015 certified. CE marked. Cross journals heat-treated to HRC 58–62 with needle roller bearings sealed for life. Every joint is deflection-tested on our articulation rig. 12-month warranty on all components.
FAQ
Can I use a wide angle joint on a standard straight PTO shaft?
Technically yes, but it is unnecessary for low-angle applications. Standard Cardan joints are more compact and economical when operating angles stay below 12°.
What maintenance does a wide angle joint require?
Regular greasing of cross journals (every 8 hours). Inspect for play in the bearings annually. Replace cross kits when end-play exceeds 0.1 mm or grease seals show leakage.
Is the 80° rating for continuous operation?
80° is the maximum instantaneous capability. For extended operation, keep angles below 60° to maximize bearing life. Brief excursions to 80° (e.g., during headland turns) are safe.
Are replacement cross kits available separately?
Yes, all cross journals and bearing kits are available individually for field replacement without buying a complete joint assembly.
What speed is recommended for wide angle joints?
Both 540 RPM and 1000 RPM are supported. Higher speeds reduce the maximum recommended continuous operating angle slightly due to centrifugal loading on the cross bearings.
User Testimonials
“Our hilly dairy farms demand high-angle PTO work. The 6WA.01 handles it perfectly — no vibration, no drama.”
“Essential for our vineyard row sprayers. Tight turns are no problem with the CV joint installed.”
“Front-mounted snow blower application. The wide angle joint handles the offset beautifully.”
“Operating on steep slopes in our fruit orchards. The CV joint eliminated the vibration problems we had with standard shafts.”
“Mountain farming demands wide-angle capability. The 8WA.01 on our tedder has been bulletproof for three seasons.”
Related Products
Complete your driveline with our PTO shafts, torque limiters, SD-double joints, overrunning clutches, yokes, safety shields, cross kits, and adapters.
