Exhibit 23(a)

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
-------------------------------


We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form
S-3) of Eaton Corporation dated June 2, 2003, filed pursuant to Rule 462(b), of
our report dated January 20, 2003, with respect to the consolidated financial
statements of Eaton Corporation included in its Annual Report (Form 10-K) for
the year ended December 31, 2002, filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission.



                                                    /s/   ERNST & YOUNG LLP


Cleveland, Ohio
June 2, 2003