How To Measure A Moldboard Plow

Understanding how to measure a moldboard plow is essential for farmers, equipment dealers, and agricultural technicians. Accurate measurements help determine the correct size, compatibility with tractors, and the efficiency of plowing operations. Whether you’re buying a new plow, replacing worn parts, or adjusting equipment for specific soil types, knowing how to measure each part properly ensures optimal performance. Although a moldboard plow may look like a simple tool, several measurements play a key role in how it performs in the field, especially in terms of furrow width, soil turnover, and tractor horsepower requirements.

Why Measuring a Moldboard Plow Matters

Measuring a moldboard plow is not just about knowing its size. It is about ensuring that it fits the task at hand, works well with the tractor’s capacity, and matches the soil conditions of the field. Proper measurement can help avoid operational inefficiencies such as uneven furrows, excessive fuel usage, or equipment strain. Farmers who know how to measure their moldboard plow correctly can improve tillage results, prolong the life of the plow, and reduce long-term maintenance costs.

Tools You’ll Need

Before beginning, gather a few basic tools. You don’t need anything complex, but having the right equipment will make the job faster and more accurate.

• Measuring tape (at least 10 feet long)
• Wrench (for checking bolt-on parts)
• Notepad or mobile device (to record measurements)
• Protective gloves (optional, for safety)

Key Measurements of a Moldboard Plow

A moldboard plow consists of several components that need to be measured to understand the full size and functionality of the tool. The most important measurements include:

1. Bottom Size or Cutting Width

This is the most commonly referenced dimension when people describe a plow’s size. The bottom size refers to the width of the soil slice each plow bottom will cut. To measure it:

• Find the horizontal distance from the outside edge of the share to the inside edge of the landside.
• This width typically ranges from 12 inches to 18 inches per bottom.
• Multiply by the number of bottoms to calculate the total plowing width.

2. Number of Bottoms

The number of bottoms refers to how many plow bodies are mounted on the frame. A 3-bottom plow will make three furrows in one pass. This is easy to count visually, but it’s important to note this when ordering parts or configuring for different tractors.

3. Plow Share Length

The share is the front cutting part of the plow that slices through the soil. To measure it:

• Start from the point of the share and measure to the rear edge where it bolts to the frog (the frame it attaches to).
• This length may vary depending on the design but is critical for replacing worn parts.

4. Moldboard Height and Length

The moldboard is the curved metal plate that turns the soil over. It plays a key role in soil inversion and coverage. To measure it:

• Measure the vertical height from the bottom edge of the share up to the top of the moldboard.
• Then measure the length from the front curve to the rear edge along the moldboard’s surface.
• Note whether the moldboard is short (used for shallow plowing) or long (used for deep turning and complete inversion).

5. Frame Width and Clearance

The width of the frame and the spacing between bottoms determine how well soil and residue can flow between the parts. To measure:

• Measure the distance between the center of one bottom to the center of the next. This is the bottom spacing, often 28 to 36 inches.
• Also measure the ground clearance from the lowest point of the frame to the ground. This ensures that the plow can operate without dragging or clogging.

6. Hitch Dimensions

The hitch is the connection point between the plow and the tractor. Measuring it ensures compatibility with different drawbars or three-point hitches. For three-point hitches:

• Measure the width between the lower arms and the height to the top link pin hole.
• For trailer-type plows, measure the tongue length and pin diameter.

How to Calculate Required Horsepower

Once you have the total width of the plow, you can estimate the horsepower needed to pull it effectively. A common rule of thumb is that you need 1.5 to 2.0 horsepower per inch of cut. For example, a 3-bottom plow with 14-inch bottoms has a total width of 42 inches, which means the tractor should have at least 63 to 84 horsepower.

Checking for Wear and Replacement Needs

Measuring a moldboard plow isn’t only for setup it also helps detect worn or uneven parts. Shares, moldboards, and shins wear down over time and lose effectiveness. If your measurements show that a share or moldboard is significantly shorter than standard specs, it’s time to consider replacement.

Keep track of the original factory dimensions and compare them during maintenance checks. Uneven wear can affect plowing depth, soil turnover, and fuel efficiency.

Adjustments After Measuring

After all measurements are taken, adjustments may be necessary to improve performance. Here are a few common post-measurement tweaks:

• Depth control: Adjust the wheel or hydraulic settings to match the plow’s capacity.
• Leveling: Ensure the plow is level from front to rear and side to side.
• Alignment: Make sure each bottom is in line with the tractor’s pulling direction for even furrows.

Tips for Accurate Measuring

• Clean the plow before measuring to remove dirt or rust that may affect accuracy.
• Measure each bottom individually, as wear can cause variations between them.
• Record all measurements and label them clearly for future use.
• Refer to manufacturer manuals when possible to verify standard sizes.

Precision in Plow Measurement Leads to Better Farming

Measuring a moldboard plow might seem like a simple task, but it requires attention to detail and understanding of each component’s role. Accurate measurements improve field performance, ensure compatibility with equipment, and guide informed maintenance decisions. Whether you’re preparing for a new season or upgrading parts, knowing how to measure your moldboard plow correctly helps maintain productivity and efficiency on the farm. With proper measurement and care, a moldboard plow remains one of the most valuable tools in modern and traditional agriculture alike.