How much does a portable PTO generator cost to operate?

Are you looking for a PTO driven generator? Do you know the various costs and benefits involved? 

In this article, we look at the costs of buying, servicing, maintaining, and running a PTO generator. Drawing on the AgriQuip range of PTO generators, we will help you make an informed decision about the best solution for your needs.

What is a PTO generator?

Power Take-Off (PTO) is a power generation process, taking power from one source and transferring it to another application. In most cases, a tractor engine creates the energy, which is transferred to an attached implement. These portable generators are useful for remote applications without a secondary power source, such as in the middle of a paddock.

Portable

A PTO generator allows you to run tools wherever your tractor goes, whether that be in a distant corner of your farm or off-site.

Backup power

PTO generators provide reliable backup power when you need it. During a power outage, the PTO generator can be connected to a manual transfer switch to restore power to your house or farm building. When using an Agriquip PTO generator, you don’t need to worry about sensitive electronics because they offer guaranteed safe power, given that the generator is operated correctly.

Low maintenance

Compared to a gas engine, PTO generators have fewer internal parts and less upkeep, making them much easier to maintain. At AgriQuip, we back our generators with a 2-year warranty to give you extra peace of mind.

PTO generator costs

Compared to an equivalent standby generator of the same power output, PTO generators cost significantly less. We’ve outlined what impacts the costs below, including the purchase price, maintenance, and running costs.

Purchase cost

The initial purchase cost of your PTO generator could range anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000. It is usually worth investing more at this point to ensure your generator is of high quality and built to last. Over time, this will be balanced by savings in maintenance and running costs. 

At Agriquip, we also offer finance — simply contact our sales team to discuss your options.

Maintenance costs

A PTO generator uses your existing tractor engine, meaning you only have one engine to maintain. In terms of regular maintenance, we recommend running the PTO generator every two or three months, as well as cleaning and greasing it. It should also be stored in a dry and ventilated place.

You will need to have your generator serviced regularly to complete the following:

• Maintain proper oil level in the PTO gear case, changing it every 200 operating hours.
• Inspect for loose wiring connections.
• Do not allow dirt or moisture to collect in the interior of the generator.
• Inspect for indication of the entrance of mice into the generator.
• Test run the generator periodically.

Running costs

The running costs of a PTO generator are far lower than a diesel generator because they utilise the tractor engine. The exact running costs will depend on the generator you choose so check the generator speed, PTO speed, and voltage output. The average yearly costs are around $100 plus regular oil changes.

PTO Generators NZ

Our PTO Generators offer cost-effective power generation for your emergency power needs. All of our generators are built with high-quality European components and come with a 2-year warranty. We also offer free freight within New Zealand.

Our PTO generators are mounted on a robust galvanised frame with a PTO shaft included. The wiring is to NZS3000 standard with IP23 Protection level and is 100% safe to run your sensitive electronics.

Key features include:

• Generator speed of 1500 RPM or 835 RPM for larger models.
• PTO speed of 430 PTO
• Voltage output of 400/230V
• Heavy-duty Bima gearbox
• Analogue volt, hertz, and amp meter
• Magnetothermic circuit breaker
• Digital automatic voltage regulator
• Power sockets, 1 and 3 phase
• Mecc-Alte 4-pole brushless alternator
• Three-point hitch
• Hot-dip galvanised heavy duty chassis/frame

GP33 TR/S

The GP33 TR/S is a brushless PTO generator with an overall weight of 217kg, suitable for a tractor with approximately 50 to 60hp. Prices start from $8,995 +GST with free freight.

• kVA Prime     — 30kVA
• kW Prime    — 24kW
• kVA Standby    — 33kVA

GP55 TR/S

The GP55 TR/S is a brushless PTO generator with an overall weight of 395kg, suitable for a tractor with approximately 80 to 100hp. Prices start from $12,700 +GST with free freight.

• kVA Prime     — 50kVA
• kW Prime    — 40kW
• kVA Standby    — 55kVA

GP77 TR/S

The GP77 TR/S is a brushless PTO generator with an overall weight of 454kg, suitable for a tractor with approximately 110 to 130hp. Prices start from $13,900 +GST with free freight.

• kVA Prime     — 75kVA
• kW Prime    — 60kW
• kVA Standby    — 77kVA

GP95 TR/SF

The GP95 TR/SF is a brushless PTO generator with an overall weight of 506kg, suitable for a tractor with approximately 130 to 150hp. Prices start from $17,300 +GST with free freight.

• kVA Prime     — 87.5kVA
• kW Prime    — 70kW
• kVA Standby    — 94kVA

GP115 TR/SF

The GP115 TR/SF is a brushless PTO generator with an overall weight of 572kg, suitable for a tractor with approximately 160 to 200hp. Prices start from $18,780 +GST with free freight.

• kVA Prime     — 100kVA
• kW Prime    — 80kW
• kVA Standby    — 115kVA

Click below to learn about our PTO generators that are perfect for your job.