Achieve Optimum Traction

Properly ballast tractor tires in six steps.

- By James Tuschner

Ensuring that tractors have the right ballast is important for reaching optimum traction and reducing soil compaction.

"Managing the ballast and tire inflation pressures can maximize traction, minimize compaction, increase the life of the tractor drivetrain, and increase productivity," says Dave Paulk, manager field technical services at BKT USA Inc.

Proper ballast and inflation are also needed to get the most out of your equipment. "The bottom line is that if you've paid good money for horsepower, proper ballast is essential to make sure you're getting your money's worth," says James Crouch, national product manager for agriculture at Yokohama Off Highway Tires.

Follow these six steps from Firestone Ag to adjust the ballast on your tractor.

1. Identify the Horsepower Rating of Your Tractor.

The correct horsepower rating depends on the type of tractor. For two-wheel drive (2WD) and mechanical front-wheel drive (MFWD) tractors, use the rated PTO horsepower. For four-wheel drive (4WD) tractors, use the tractor's rated engine horsepower.

This example will use a MFWD tractor with 180-PTO hp. that is being used to pull drawbar implements.

2. Calculate the Target Total Tractor Weight.

The target tractor weight is based on the driveline of the tractor. The chart on the next page outlines the weight per horsepower. To continue with the example, a MFWD tractor with 180-PTO hp. multiplied by 130 pounds would equal 23,400 pounds.

3. Calculate the Recommended Front- and Rear-Axle Weight Splits.