Tractor Repair: IH 284 (gasoline) independent PTO, clutch disks, clutch pedal

Question
QUESTION: The specs on this model say it has an independent PTO (540 and 1000) so I'm assuming that means pushing the clutch half way down while PTO is engaged means the tractor stops moving but the PTO remains engaged and only stops when clutch is fully depressed.  I can't seem to find a middle position on the clutch that stops the transmission and keeps the PTO running.  Is there an adjustment or anything I can check to verify that I infact have an independent PTO and get it working as it should

ANSWER:    Hello,

  A PTO that operates the way you describe with the clutch pedal is a dual stage clutch, not an independent PTO.  The clutch pedal is not involved at all on an independent PTO so that's why you can't find a middle position.  On an independent PTO, the PTO clutch is located in the rear section of the tractor and is operated by hydraulic pressure pushing a piston against a stack of clutch disks to squeeze them together much like an automatic transmission in a car.  The dual stage clutch has the main and PTO clutches together in one pressure plate assembly on the flywheel, and operates as you mentioned.  If your PTO is not working, you will first have to check the regulated pressure to the PTO clutch to verify it is getting enough pressure.  I don't know the exact pressure spec. on this model, but regulated pressure is usually between 200 and 300 psi on most machines.  If the pressure is good and the PTO still does not work, the PTO clutch will have to be removed for repairs.

         Arnie

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: thanks for the fast response.  The PTO is operational the thing is the manual says its an INDEPENDENT PTO. The problem is that when the PTO is engaged it only spins when I release the clutch.  I thought an independent PTO would operate regardless of the clutch. If I depress the clutch when the PTO is engaged the PTO stops and when I realese the clutch the PTO starts again.

Answer
 
  Well, I've been trying to research this but have not had much luck.  Our dealership sells large farm tractors, so they have never sold one of these and don't have a manual that I look in.  From what I have found, I think these tractors were made by Mitsubishi.  Some manufacturers use different terminology for things.  To me, independent pto means "live pto", meaning it stays running when you stop forward movement with the clutch.  That's what the term means on an American tractor.  With some brands, independent pto doesn't necessarily mean live pto.  I think your tractor is one that does not have a live pto, so unfortunately there is probably nothing you can do to keep the pto running when you push in the clutch.  This is a hard model to find any info on, other than the gas engine is a Mazda, and the diesel engine is a Nissan, and people can't get parts for these tractors anymore.