Ballasting determines the amount of slip in any given field condition, which affects such items as fuel usage, field operation time, and tire wear. Tractors correctly ballasted and properly matched to an implement will produce the most work for the least amount of fuel. Slip is controlled by adding or removing ballast from the tractor to obtain the desired slip. A visual check of the tire track can be used to estimate slip and proper ballasting. If slip is lower than 10%, ballast needs to be removed from the tractor. If slip is higher than 20%, more ballast needs to be added to the tractor.
For more information: Ballasting Tractors for Optimal Fuel Efficiency.
