Getting tire pressure and ballast right can save fuel and soil

Tire pressure is one of the most overlooked settings on a tractor, and getting it wrong costs money in fuel, traction and soil health. Over-inflated tires shrink the footprint, increase slip and compact soil, while under-inflated tires can damage sidewalls on the road.

Start with the tire manufacturer's load and inflation tables rather than the number molded on the sidewall, which is a maximum, not a target. The right pressure depends on the axle load and travel speed.

Ballast works hand in hand with pressure. The goal is a modest amount of wheel slip, often cited around 10 to 15 percent in heavy draft work. Too little ballast wastes power through slip; too much compacts the soil and burns extra fuel.

Check pressures cold and recheck when you change implements or move from field to road work. A good gauge and ten minutes can make a measurable difference.