Attaining Optimum Performance
Before
adding ballast to your tractor, consider these important factors to attain optimum performance:
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Total tractor weight and static weight split (percent of static weight on front and rear axles)
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Type of ballast used (cast weight or liquid)
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Tire inflation pressures
Recommended Weight Split
Tractor should be weighed to accurately determine amount and type of ballast. Weight should be distributed depending on how tractor is equipped and the conditions in which it will be operated.
NOTE:
Ideal weight split with MFWD is 35 percent front, 65 percent rear, of total tractor weight. See Ballast Guide in this section for two-wheel drive recommendations.
Correct Ballast
Use no more ballast than necessary, and adjust ballast as tractor use changes.
For correct ballast, measure amount of travel reduction (% slip) of the drive wheels. Under normal field conditions, travel reduction should be 10-15 percent (8-12 for MFWD tractors). Add more weight to drive wheels if slip is excessive. If there is less than minimum percent slip, ballast should be removed, unless needed for stability.
Correct ballast allows for most efficient use of tractor's available power and will not make up for an implement which is too big for the tractor. Adding ballast will not improve performance, if engine speed falls below rated speed and/or wheel slip is not beyond the recommended range.
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Correct Inflation Pressure
Inflate tires to correct pressure to carry load on each axle for optimum tractive performance.
NOTE:
See Wheels, Tires, and Treads Section for inflation pressure charts.
Selecting Ballast Carefully
NOTE:
Radial-ply and bias-ply tires use same ballasting procedures.
| Factors Determining Amount of Ballast |
| Soil surface-loose or firm |
| Type of implement-integral/semi-integral or towed |
| Travel speed-slow or fast |
| Tractor power output-partial or full load |
| Tires-single or dual; small or large |
Pulling a lighter load at a higher speed is more economical and more efficient than pulling heavier loads at a lower speed.
| Too Little Ballast |
Too Much Ballast |
| Excessive wheel spin |
Soil compaction |
| Power loss |
Power loss |
| Tire wear |
Increased load |
| Fuel waste |
Fuel waste |
| Lower productivity |
Lower productivity |
Ballast Limitations
IMPORTANT:
Tractor weight exceeding heavy ballast limits should be avoided and may void the warranty due to "overload" conditions.
Ballast should be limited by the lowest of either tire capacity or tractor capacity. Carrying capacity of each tire should not be exceeded. If a greater amount of weight is needed, a larger single tire or duals should be considered.
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